On Wednesday, April 29, 2020, the Department of Human Development and Family Science gathered virtually to present awards to its undergraduate and graduate students, to induct new members into its academic honor society, and to celebrate all of the accomplishments of its students over the past academic year. This meeting was a modification to the usual in-person end of the year ceremony that was converted to a virtual ceremony this year in order to manage the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

When Shaylah Nichols ’18 reflects on experiences that set her on her path, she recalls a childhood friend who was curious and bright but ended up dropping out of high school. Nichols attributes their divergent trajectories to the differing support received from their families and communities.

On May 1, Falk College held its annual recognition of academic excellence with its Faculty of the Year Awards. These awards, selected by members of Falk Faculty Council based upon peer nominations and documentary evidence, recognize faculty excellence in the academic year.

Falk College is a natural fit to house the Mindfulness and Contemplative Studies minor, as the program’s courses complement the work of Falk students, many of whom plan to enter professions where they will be working directly with children and families.

Every year the Graduate School solicits nominations from graduate students, faculty, staff, and alumni for the Excellence in Graduate Education Faculty Recognition Award. This award honors faculty who have made a significant, positive influence on graduate education at Syracuse University through their commitment to superior graduate teaching, dedication to departmental and community presence, and research initiatives.

Following the end of her freshman year, Mollie went to a residential treatment center for an eating disorder, something she had struggled with for seven years in the past. During her first year at Syracuse, her mental health suffered, leaving her with a decision on whether or not to come back to finish her education at Syracuse University. After successfully completing her recovery program, which had a heavy focus on mindfulness, spirituality and yoga, Mollie knew she needed a resource on campus that was mindfulness- or yoga-based upon returning to school.

In her hometown of New Haven, Connecticut, senior Rachel Brennan ’20 was encouraged to join the Orange family when she heard alumni talk about their time at Syracuse University. The academic disciplines in Falk College convinced Brennan that Syracuse University was the place for her. “I remember sitting at an informational meeting about the College and thinking that I was interested in every single major offered,” she adds.

Interpersonal stressors tend to increase during uncertain times such as the one we are experiencing now due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While self-isolating, we may not have access to familiar ways of coping. Here is a list of helpful resources for students and families during this time...

Tyler Ashley Smith ’20 thought Syracuse University was the perfect fit—but not for the reasons she was expecting. “When I was applying to colleges, I wanted to be close to a big city and figured that Syracuse University would be close to New York City,” says Smith. “When I finally visited campus, I discovered two things: One, it was definitely not close to the big city. And two, the spirit on campus was completely infectious and I knew I wanted to spend my four years here.”

Our award-winning students make us all proud! We are excited to recognize the work of our top undergraduate and graduate students, and it is important to us that these high-achieving students not only understand their worth within our department and Syracuse University but also their great value to our communities and our world. We are training the next generation of world changers. The HDFS Stude…