Syracuse Sun

The Student Experience division at Syracuse University has announced that Chidera Olalere and Silke Pion, both of the class of 2026, have been selected as Senior Class Marshals. In their roles, they will represent their classmates at university-wide events, contribute to selecting the Commencement speaker, and provide feedback on the student experience.

Sheriah N. Dixon, associate vice president for the Student Experience division, dean of students, and chair of the selection committee, praised their contributions to the university. "Leading with heart, purpose and unmistakable Orange pride, Chidera and Silke have made a lasting impact on our Syracuse community through their dedication to campus involvement, community service and academic excellence," Dixon stated. "As the Class of 2026 Senior Class Marshals, they embody the true spirit of Syracuse University—guiding us with vision, unity and distinction as we step boldly into the future."

Chidera Olalere is originally from Nigeria and North Yorkshire, England, and has been active at Syracuse University, involving herself in diverse educational and extracurricular opportunities. Olalere is majoring in biochemistry and forensic science, with a minor in economics. Among her accomplishments, she is part of the Renée Crown University Honors Program and has received the Invest in Success and 1870 scholarships. Her scientific pursuits include a research internship at the Upstate Medical University Bourboulia Lab, focusing on cancer therapy agents.

Olalere is engaged in campus life as a Stevenson Education Center tutor, a residence assistant, and a student ambassador for the College of Arts and Sciences. "I am also excited to represent all my different experiences at the University, my background and hopefully show other students the value of being open to the opportunities around them and pursuing the things they are passionate about," she remarked. "The legacy I have found at Syracuse University is one of joyful service and community and that is the same legacy I hope to leave behind."

Silke Pion, from California, studies political science, finance, and business analytics at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the Martin J. Whitman School of Management. She is a recipient of the Chancellor’s and Invest in Success scholarships, a member of the dean’s list, and the Renée Crown University Honors Program. At the university, Pion has engaged in numerous roles, such as leading Alpha Gamma Delta as director of finance, serving at the Martin J. Whitman School of Management as a teaching assistant, and working with Syracuse Hillel.

Pion is also actively involved in professional development and community service. Her experience includes roles such as a junior analyst for The Orange Value Fund, LLC, and an intern with New York State Assembly Member Pamela Hunter. "I want my legacy to remain here at Syracuse University and remind students who may second guess themselves that they are worthy of every opportunity in front of them," she shared. "No opportunity or experience stands alone, instead, it’s the result of the hard work and commitment of others who came before. I want to continue the tradition of paying it forward and spread the message across campus."