Syracuse Sun

Nearly 1,300 first-year and transfer students were honored at the University’s Success Scholars reception last week. The program recognizes new students who have earned a GPA of 3.75 or higher in their first semester, completed at least 15 credits, and are in good standing with the University. Each honoree receives a $500 Invest in Success Scholarship per semester, renewable for up to four years if they complete 30 credits annually and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.

The event took place on February 21 at Schine Student Center’s Goldstein Auditorium, followed by a networking opportunity for students. Kal Srinivas, director for retention and student success, stated: “As we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Success Scholars, we reaffirm our dedication to nurturing a community of scholars, innovators and leaders who will shape the future with their commitment to excellence.” He added that the event is "a testament to the hard work and determination of our students."

The Success Scholars program was initiated in 2019 to encourage academic excellence and retain outstanding students. It also provides opportunities for students to connect with faculty and staff while learning about campus resources such as the Renée Crown University Honors Program, Syracuse Abroad, The SOURCE, ’Cuse Works, and the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service.

TianYing Callam is one of this year's Success Scholars. A first-year student from Cleveland in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, Callam chose Syracuse for its competitive curriculum and various opportunities available to students. She has been involved with several activities since arriving on campus including working with the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service.

Callam expressed her satisfaction: “Being a Success Scholar means that I have achieved my goal of being a high-level academic student.” She noted that this achievement boosts her confidence in her potential to strive further than she imagined.