Robin Berkowitz-Smith is retiring from Syracuse University after a 38-year career focused on student mentorship and support. Berkowitz-Smith, who graduated from Syracuse in 1983 with a degree in nutrition management, began her professional journey at the university in 1988 alongside her husband, Jeff. She started as a residence director and eventually became associate director overseeing all North Campus residence halls.
Reflecting on her career, Berkowitz-Smith said, “My deepest gratitude goes out to all who supported, challenged and inspired me throughout my 38-year career here. It’s been an honor and all will be missed.”
During her tenure, she played a key role in building community among students and supporting them through personal challenges. “I really learned to mediate and to listen, and to collaborate with others to provide the support that students needed,” she said.
Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz, associate dean at Hendricks Chapel, noted Berkowitz-Smith’s impact on colleagues: “She was an incredible colleague—steadfast, deeply compassionate and absolutely student-centered in everything she did. Her warmth, insight and candor have had such a lasting impact on all of us who’ve had the privilege of working with her,” Kantrowitz said. “Robin always kept it real—always genuine, always grounded, always honest.”
Kantrowitz also recalled Berkowitz-Smith’s attention to detail during move-in weekends: “That level of care sent such a strong message to staff, students and their families: You matter, and how you’re welcomed matters,” she said.
Berkowitz-Smith contributed to several programs including Orange After Dark and initiated the first overnight retreat for honors students. In 2018, she moved into academic advising within the College of Arts and Sciences before joining the Renée Crown University Honors Program four years later.
Explaining her transition back to direct student work, Berkowitz-Smith said: “I didn’t want to supervise anymore. I wanted to advise and to connect.” She emphasized the importance of caring for students beyond academics: “They just need someone to tell them that they’re doing okay, that they’re enough,” she said.
Danielle Smith, professor of African American studies and director of the Renée Crown University Honors Program, praised Berkowitz-Smith’s contributions: “Over the years, Robin has made invaluable contributions to the honors program. As an academic advisor, her love for students played a major role in ensuring that honors students had meaningful student experiences and thrived academically,” Smith said. “Robin taught the honors sophomore seminar, and students learned so much from her about conducting research, doing community service, preparing for internships and other professional opportunities. Her guidance has been instrumental for the growth of students.”
Allie Heppner, associate director of the Renée Crown University Honors Program added: “Robin leaves behind a legacy and a community of staff, faculty and students who are excited to celebrate her next chapter and will long appreciate the positive mark she made,” she said.
Berkowitz-Smith’s two daughters also attended Syracuse University as resident advisors before becoming elementary school teachers in Liverpool Central School District.
Upon retirement announcement by colleagues—a video compilation highlighted words like “caring,” “supportive,” and “mentor.” Berkowitz-Smith shared that retirement was not an easy decision but felt timely following family milestones.
Looking ahead, she plans further study on ancient China along with travel plans abroad with her husband while considering future work possibilities. As she put it: “I am not saying I won’t work again. But right now I want to find me again.”
