This has not happened by chance. Syracuse has adopted a new paradigm, the student-centered research university, which makes student learning its highest priority. The documents linked to this Web page will describe some of the many initiatives shaping a new campus culture providing undergraduates improved access to the learning resources of a major research university. The values and priorities of the new culture are readily apparent. First-year students enroll in smaller classes and special seminars.
All students benefit from innovative technologies in their courses, and from improved advising.
Modified roles and rewards for faculty emphasize teaching and student learning. A professional development program for department chairs strengthens the University's leadership at the front lines of academic renewal. Syracuse University has been fortunate to receive generous foundation support for many of its endeavors. The University has also been honored to receive very favorable recognition for its leadership in improving undergraduate education on other campuses. In 1989, the vice president for undergraduate studies and CID had organized the first off-campus retreat of the University's deans and department chairs to lay plans to improve teaching.