Chancellor Kent Syverud | Syracuse University
Chancellor Kent Syverud | Syracuse University
The Lender Center for Social Justice at Syracuse University is expanding its reach globally through a new initiative called Lender Global. This effort, in partnership with Syracuse Abroad, will designate one of the university's abroad centers each year as the Lender Global Partner. Three research fellowships will be awarded to students studying at that location.
Lender Global will commence in Spring 2025 at Syracuse London, focusing on social and environmental justice. Student fellows will explore themes such as biodiversity and the rights of nature, climate justice for people of the global majority, and ethical travel engagement.
Kendall Phillips, Director of the Lender Center, explained that extending their social justice initiative via Syracuse Abroad aligns with the university’s mission to prepare students as responsible global citizens. "This initiative aligns with the University’s goals of preparing students to be responsible global citizens and addressing the social and scientific issues that affect people everywhere," Phillips stated.
Erika Wilkens, Assistant Provost and Executive Director of Syracuse Abroad, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration: “We are pleased to partner with the Lender Center on this innovative concept that enhances our current programming.”
Students involved in this program will receive mentorship from Becca Farnum, an environmental activist-academic based in London, and Maggie Sardino ’23. They will be part of Syracuse London's Environment, Sustainability and Policy learning community.
Farnum noted London's suitability for sustainability studies due to its status as one of the world's top sustainable cities. “London regularly ranks as one of the world’s Top 10 Sustainable Cities,” she said.
Troy Gordon from Syracuse Abroad highlighted that social and environmental justice is a significant focus within their curriculum at Syracuse London. Students participating in Spring 2025 can apply for these fellowships.
The Lender Center aims to foster innovative approaches to social justice issues through proactive initiatives like Lender Global. The center was established thanks to a gift from Marvin and Helaine Lender.
Syracuse Santiago is expected to become the next designated Lender Global Partner for 2025-26, offering research opportunities in English or Spanish.
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