Dr. Daniel M. Maxwell ’86

What was your focus at Syracuse University and what are you doing now?

I am a 1986 graduate from the School of Management in Personnel and Industrial Relations. As an undergraduate, I lived on campus beginning in my sophomore year (Day Hall and Brewster-Boland). I was heavily involved in the Day Hall Council and then as a RA in B/B. I served in the first class of the University 100 and was a founding member of the rechartering of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity in 1984. I served as president my senior year. I also worked as a lifeguard throughout college with Syracuse Parks and Recreation. I currently serve as the Interim Vice President for Student Success and Student Life at the University of Houston-Downtown. I am in my 36th year as a student affairs professional following my master’s degree from the University of Miami in 1988.

What is your favorite SU memory?

I loved my time as a RA and in SAE. I developed the very needed skills that have served me throughout my career in higher education. I met many of my closest friends, developed life long friends, and had a lot of fun. I also speak highly of the opportunity had to create the first student employee program the year the Schine Student Center opened in partnership with my primary faculty member in my major.

Why is it important to give back to Syracuse University?

SU provided me with an academic foundation coupled with student life experiences that shaped my career path. The opportunities I had are due to my parent’s support, my faculty, and the many student affairs professionals who formerly and informally served as mentors and role models. I am also passionate about the work and scholarships through the work from the tragedy of Pan Am Flight 103.

What does being a member of The Hill Society (leadership giving) mean to you?

Many alumni have the ability to give back to Syracuse. I hope my engagement can demonstrate that a gift of any size can make a positive impact in the lives of current students. I feel passionate about giving back to the common good and Syracuse University offers excellence both in the classroom and in the community curricular.

The Hill Society | Member Profile 

In each issue of The Hill Society e-newsletter, we will feature a Hill Society member. If you are interested in being profiled, contact thehillsociety@syr.edu.