Maxwell School News and Commentary

Wildfires driven by climate change contribute to as many as thousands of annual deaths and billions of dollars in economic costs from wildfire smoke in the United States, according to a new study. Jacob Bendix, professor emeritus of geography and environment, says he is “dismayed” by the findings but not surprised.

Being named a Falk College Scholar is the highest academic award conferred by Falk College. In this video and story, the seven 2025 Falk College Scholars discuss their most impactful experiences at Falk College and Syracuse University

The designation is granted by the Board of Trustees to faculty who have achieved exceptionally distinguished stature in their academic specialties.

“Donald Trump has come in and has had just a blizzard of executive orders and other kinds of actions that have had serious impact in the federal government, the relations between the major branches of government and have had effects that have trickled down into Syracuse,” says Grant Reeher, professor of political science.

Maxwell student Abigail Fitzpatrick, received the Wortman Scholarship from the History Department. Funding for the scholarship has been generously provided by Marlene Stein Wortman ’58 B.A. (Hist). Fitzpatrick will use the funding to conduct archival research in Los Angeles for her distinction thesis.

The Maxwell sociologist received an Excellence in Graduate Education Award and an honor from the Center for Disability Resources.

“What’s at risk is not just enrollment numbers or university budgets—it’s the future of American innovation and the country’s standing in the world,” says Yingyi Ma, professor of sociology.

“Officials are soliciting advice from experts on pronatalist options. Some involve subsidies for births. This would be a mistake. The better idea is to make in vitro fertilization affordable and accessible,” says Leonard Lopoo, associate dean, chair and professor of public administration and international affairs.

“The uniformed military—from junior enlisted to four star generals—see right through these clowns, from their backstabbing and their inexperience to their cavalier treatment of highly classified information and their bungling policy rollouts,” says Alex Wagner, adjunct professor in Maxwell's Washington programs.

The Public Health Department recently honored several undergraduate and graduate students with department awards. “We seek to be a leader in leveraging public health research and education to create the greatest impact on global health,” says Department Chair and Professor David Larsen.