Elliot J. Stamler, a 1960 graduate of Syracuse University’s Maxwell School, has been honored with the Cramer Horizon Award in recognition of his leadership, philanthropy, and dedication to civic engagement. The award ceremony took place in May, marking the first time the honor has been presented since 2011.
Stamler, who earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Maxwell and the College of Arts and Sciences, went on to complete an MBA at Columbia University in 1965. His professional background includes executive roles in advertising, publicity, real estate brokerage, asset management, and as head of his own investment company, Northstar Assets. He also held positions with Columbia Pictures Television/Screen Gems Inc. and First Hanover Realty.
The Cramer Horizon Award acknowledges alumni and friends for their inspirational leadership and philanthropic contributions. It was renamed in 2018 to honor Gerald and Daphna Cramer. Gerald Cramer, a Whitman School graduate, contributed nearly $10 million to Maxwell over three decades.
Liz Armstrong, Maxwell’s assistant dean for advancement, said during the ceremony: “Today’s ceremony marks the first time Maxwell has bestowed this recognition since 2011. We hoped to have this ceremony in 2022, the year Elliot was named the recipient, but more than anything, we are so pleased to do so years later and amongst his fellow classmates.”
Stamler has supported Syracuse University through both service and financial gifts. In 2019 he named the university as a beneficiary of part of his estate—totaling seven figures—to support academic and research initiatives across campus.
In a previous interview about his support for Maxwell School Stamler said: “Maxwell, through its students and alumni, is a potent, positive force now and in the future for the preservation of our democracy.”
Maxwell Dean David M. Van Slyke noted that while he met Stamler after becoming dean in 2016 Stamler’s commitment to Maxwell predates his tenure. “Much like we hope for every graduate, Elliot’s political science degree has influenced all aspects of his life and his way of thinking. He is a lifelong learner with a strong commitment to democracy and citizenship,” Van Slyke said.
