Upsilon Alpha Alumnae of Syracuse, NY Inc. has announced the donation of its former chapter house at 300 Waverly Ave. to Syracuse University. The building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, will be used as a meeting and gathering space for Greek letter social and professional organizations that do not have their own campus buildings.
Laurie Bean-Taishoff ’84, president of the UAA board, said her experience with Upsilon Alpha inspired her dedication to volunteerism and philanthropy. She recalled participating in national fundraising events during her time at Syracuse University and noted the importance of leaving a lasting legacy through the gift of the chapter house. “We wanted to leave a lasting legacy by donating a cherished place that forged lifelong friendships and inspired so many of us to give back,” says Taishoff.
The university plans to use the house primarily for student experience initiatives, focusing on supporting Greek Life. Allen Groves, senior vice president and chief student experience officer at Syracuse University, stated: “We are very grateful for this exceptional gift from the alumnae of Upsilon Alpha. Their desire to have this strategically located house primarily utilized by the Student Experience Division, with a focus on supporting, preserving and enhancing Greek Life at Syracuse University, will have a very positive impact for our current and future students. We have many fraternities and sororities across our six councils who have no house of their own in which to hold meetings or alumni/alumnae receptions, as well as some chapters that closed years ago but whose alumni/alumnae still enjoy coming together for reunions. This gift will enable us to offer these groups something crucial that has been missing.”
The property served as home to the Upsilon Alpha Chapter of Chi Omega from 1919 until 1992 before being leased out to other groups such as Phi Sigma Sigma until 2024. The three-story residence retains original features like its grand staircase and wood floors.
Laura Hand Wright ’71, an alumna who had a career in broadcast journalism in Syracuse, commented on the significance of maintaining traditions while repurposing the historic building: “Very active alumnae have worked hard to keep the house relevant to our traditions,” says Upsilon Alpha alumna Laura Hand Wright ’71, an award-winning journalist and television news anchor who had a groundbreaking career in the Syracuse broadcast industry. “The proposed repurposing of the house is welcome news. While an active chapter, sorority members were recognized for academic excellence and leadership in campus and community organizations. Many sisters have continued in distinguished careers that include community service. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places and will be repurposed as a meeting place for Greek organizations to develop lifelong commitment to community service.”
UAA members ensured preservation measures would be part of their donation agreement so that both its physical structure and historical legacy would remain intact for future generations.
