Syracuse Sun

Syracuse University has unveiled its new Gaming and Esports Center, aiming to strengthen its position as a leader in esports and gaming education. The facility, located in the Schine Student Center, spans 5,800 square feet and is the second of its kind on campus.

Chancellor and President Kent Syverud highlighted the university's commitment during the opening ceremony: “This new best-in-class esports center is an important milestone in a project that is still underway to make us the best university for esports and gaming. No other university of our stature is investing in esports like we are. This gives Syracuse University a unique opportunity to level up while others aren’t even in the game.”

The center offers diverse facilities including high-end personal computers, console gaming systems, virtual reality options, racing simulators, arcade games, and tabletop gaming. It also features a competitive stage with live streaming capabilities for varsity teams.

Joey Gawrysiak, executive director of esports at Syracuse University, emphasized the center's role in providing educational opportunities: “We’re setting a new standard for what esports and gaming can be... We’re using esports and gaming as an educational opportunity.”

The facility supports academic initiatives such as an esports communications and management degree program offered by S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and David B. Falk College of Sport.

A collaboration with global organization Gen.G will enhance student engagement through events like Campus Takeover conferences. Students can also participate in study abroad programs related to esports.

Will Delgado ’26 expressed enthusiasm about career opportunities provided by involvement with the center: “By getting involved with esports, students can walk away with career skills and experiences that will serve them well in this industry.”

During the opening event, Syracuse University's Counter Strike 2 varsity team was honored for their national championship win from the National Association of Collegiate Esports.

Looking ahead, construction on another competitive arena inside Marley Building will begin this summer. The Gaming and Esports Center operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering free access to members of the university community.