Syracuse University

Syracuse, New York

Syracuse University demonstrated a long-term commitment to its local community, with a special focus on assisting youth from disadvantaged circumstances. Working closely with 25 elementary and secondary schools in a resource challenged urban school district, students from the Syracuse University Literacy Corps produced outstanding results. This Federal Work-Study service-learning program paired college tutors with youth from the 25 elementary and secondary schools. More than 85 percent of the participating youth demonstrated improvement in academic skills and abilities, social attitudes, self-esteem, and community involvement. Syracuse’s academic departments provide service to youth through the arts and technology and mentoring for engineering.

In addition, one Syracuse University program provides undergraduate students an opportunity to work in a New York City high school to develop leadership programs focused on peer mediation, before and after school tutoring, and extra curricular programs. Their work inspired 70 high seniors at the New York City high school to attend Syracuse University.