Syracuse Sun

David M. Van Slyke, dean of the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, recently visited India to commemorate the Maxwell School’s centennial and its long-standing partnership with the country. During his visit, Van Slyke met with alumni, partners, and dignitaries, including India’s Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan.

Accompanied by Dan Nelson, Maxwell’s Director of Accelerated Learning and Global Engagement, Van Slyke highlighted the global impact of the school’s students, faculty, and alumni. The relationship between Maxwell and India began over 70 years ago shortly after India's independence. Over time, this partnership has strengthened through a focus on public administration and international affairs education. Thousands of Indian students, citizens, and civil servants have been hosted by Maxwell throughout these decades.

The meeting with Minister Pradhan underscored hopes for increased collaboration with India. “Meeting with Minister of Education Pradhan was truly an honor,” said Van Slyke. “I look forward to our continued partnership with India and its people.”

Van Slyke also engaged with Surendra Nath Tripathi from the Indian Institute for Public Administration (IIPA), which was established based on recommendations from former Maxwell dean Paul Appleby. Discussions included faculty members, civil servants, and military personnel on managing complex partnerships between governments and industries.

Maxwell's commitment to promoting good governance globally was further demonstrated through meetings with Dr. R Balasubramaniam at India's Capacity Building Commission.

As a keynote speaker at the International Conference on Public Policy and Management hosted by the Centre for Public Policy at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, Van Slyke addressed scholars on recent developments in policy research.

The visit concluded with a centennial celebration at Delhi Gymkhana Club attended by over 80 Maxwell alumni, partners, and dignitaries who gathered to honor the school's impact globally and its special connection with India.