The history of the Alumni Association of Syracuse University displays a tradition rich in innovation and ingenuity. The Association began following Commencement exercises in May 1872. Graduates of the school of Liberal Arts/Genesee College met to organize loyal graduates interested in advancing the fortunes of their alma mater. At this first meeting, a temporary organization was formed; no permanent law or constitution was adopted until 1874.

 

 

The objectives and purpose of the Association as stated in this constitution were:

·        to foster in all proper ways every interest of the University;

·        to retain the friendships formed at college;

·        to keep a record of all alumni activities;

·        to unite in annual literary and social activities; and

·        to provide memorial services for the deceased.

 

The most recent constitution of the Association highlights similar goals:

·        to promote a close relationship between alumni and the University;

·        to conduct educational and social programs and other activities of mutual benefit and interest;

·        to advise the Office of Alumni Relations on all matters relating to alumni affairs; and

·        to encourage alumni and other support for the University.

 

 

Originally, provisions were made for an annual election of a president, three vice-presidents, a recording secretary, a corresponding secretary, a necrologist, a treasurer, a historian poet, and an executive committee of seven. The responsibilities of governing the Association rested in the hands of thirteen people elected annually to the Board of Directors. Today, the number of people on the Board may be as many as forty-four, including four student members. However the offices of historian, poet, and necrologist no longer exist.

 

 

The constitution was amended in 1876 to include graduates from each of the colleges of Syracuse University and the graduating class of each current year. Unlike today, membership in the Association was not automatic, or compulsory. Graduates demonstrated their intention to uphold the responsibilities and duties of the Association and accepted their voting rights by signing the constitution and paying a fee of one dollar per year.

 

From 1873 to1893, the business of the Association was conducted in the Hall of Languages, usually in the Chancellor's Classroom, the large assembly room on the first floor. Alumni gathered to socialize usually at either the Parlors of the Hall of Languages or one of the city hotels, such as the Temperance House.

 

In 1882, it was decided that the constitution was in need of drastic revision, especially with respect to the Association's efforts to establish an alumni endowment fund. When the committee assigned to the task found that no state law existed under which alumni could be incorporated, they drafted an act and sent the proposal to Albany where it was passed by the state legislature

 

in June 1882. This act provided for the incorporation not only of Syracuse University alumni, but of alumni of colleges and universities throughout New York State as well. In 1884, a new constitution was adopted and the old Association completed its work.

 

1892 marked the beginning of a new era for the Association - the establishment of Syracuse University alumni clubs in cities other than Syracuse. The first was the Alumni Association of New York City. Over time, as the number of alumni increased, so did their support for the University. In approximately 1925, an alumni center was established on campus. This center served as the focal point for alumni activities. However, it was not until 1940 that the Association became integrated into the structure of the University. Six staff members supervised the functioning of the fourteen clubs. In just five years, the number of alumni clubs more than quadrupled into ninety clubs nation wide. That year, the Association and the Office of Alumni Relations became a University budget line item.

 

In 1953, The Office of Alumni Relations moved to a new home, the Women's Building. Alumni activity in New York City and in Washington, D.C. were accelerated by the donation of Lubin House and Greenberg House (1964 and 1990 respectively).

 

In 1991, the revised Constitution and By-Laws of the Alumni Association were approved. According to this document, all persons who attend Syracuse University for at least two years and whose class has graduated are considered members of the Association. Affiliate membership is extended to parents of present and former students who consider themselves friends of Syracuse University.

 

In 1997, Syracuse University alumni were given a true place to call home on campus. The Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center, located next to Bird Library, held its grand opening during Homecoming '97. The Office of Alumni Relations moved to its new home on the third floor of the Center. All alumni and friends are welcome to visit there whenever they are on campus.

 

The Alumni Association works to promote a close relationship between alumni and the University by fostering a spirit of loyalty and fraternity among graduates, former students, and friends of the University and encouraging alumni to maintain personal involvement in, and financial support of, the activities of the University. It advises the Office of Alumni Relations on all matters relating to alumni affairs and encourages alumni support for Syracuse University. Indeed, where would the University be without its alumni? | Syracuse University Syracuse, NY 13244-3020
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