It began with trivia nights at the Inn Complete and a shared enthusiasm for Orange sports, evolving into a life steeped in Orange pride for Brianna G’20 and Kevin Shults G’20. Syracuse University is not just their workplace but also the backdrop of their love story.
Brianna serves as the director of InclusiveU in the Lawrence B. Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education, within the School of Education. She holds an executive master of public administration degree from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. Kevin is the associate director of Career Services in the College of Law, possessing an M.S. in information management from the School of Information Studies.
In a summertime series on Orange Love, they share their journey. Reflecting on how they met, Brianna notes, “We were introduced by a mutual friend and quickly bonded over our shared love of adventure, sports, travel and music.” They spent many evenings playing trivia at SU’s Inn Complete while watching games together.
Their connection to Syracuse was evident even before they became alumni. “Kevin is rarely seen without his Syracuse gear,” Brianna says. Their wedding planning included campus photos because it felt right to them.
Working at Syracuse offers unique experiences for both. Kevin shares that people often ask if they commute together; however, they work in different schools and have distinct roles. He highlights perks like attending events together and visiting each other’s offices.
Earning graduate degrees simultaneously during 2020 was challenging yet rewarding for them both. “We coordinated class schedules… navigated a global pandemic—all while finishing our capstones,” Brianna recalls.
The couple cherishes various campus memories such as graduations and introducing their son Everett to Otto. The university remains significant to them individually and as a couple due to its influence on their relationship’s development.
When asked which campus building symbolizes their relationship best, both agree it’s “The [JMA Wireless] Dome,” citing its energy, tradition, community spirit—and evolution over time—as reflective elements aligning with theirs.
For those with untold Orange Love stories: contact internalcomms@syr.edu for potential feature opportunities.
