Syracuse Sun

Bob Mankoff, a 1966 graduate of Syracuse University, will deliver the alumni keynote address at the 2025 College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) | Maxwell undergraduate convocation. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, at 8:30 a.m.

Mankoff's career trajectory from psychology student to influential cartoonist highlights his dedication to understanding humor. His work includes roles as cartoon editor for The New Yorker and contributions to various educational institutions. He has also explored the intersection of comedy and artificial intelligence in his TED Talks.

"A liberal arts education illustrates the idea that now is as it was and as it will be," Mankoff said in 2024, emphasizing the value of a broad educational background.

Dean Behzad Mortazavi expressed enthusiasm about Mankoff's participation, stating, "We are honored to welcome Bob Mankoff ’66, who perfectly embodies A&S’ mission of creating agents of change."

Born in Queens, New York, Mankoff attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School before studying psychology at Syracuse University. His persistence led him to success with The New Yorker after submitting around 2,000 cartoons before his first publication. He eventually became the magazine's cartoon editor in 1997.

Mankoff founded CartoonStock.com and has worked with Esquire and Air Mail as a cartoon editor. He co-runs Botnik Studios and authored several books including his memoir "How About Never—Is Never Good For You?: My Life In Cartoons."

The convocation will take place at the JMA Wireless Dome with a reception following in the Quad at 10:30 a.m.