Erin L. Weinstein ’00

What is your Syracuse University story? Do you have any favorite memories?

Everyone’s Syracuse story is different, but mine started the moment I visited campus. I grew up in Los Angeles, so moving 3,000 miles away — and trading beaches for blizzards — was no small decision. But from the minute I set foot at Syracuse, it just felt right. There was this incredible sense of energy and possibility, and even though I was far from home, I immediately felt like I had found a community. That feeling has stayed with me ever since.

It’s hard to pick just one favorite Syracuse memory, there were so many incredible moments. I’ll never forget the 1998 Syracuse–Virginia Tech game, when we won in the final seconds and stormed the field in the Dome. The energy that night was unforgettable. But what really stands out looking back are the lifelong friendships I made and the experiences we shared, both on and off campus. Those connections have stayed with me long after graduation — that’s what truly makes Syracuse special.

 

What areas of Syracuse do you choose to support and why?

As a proud member of the Legends Society, I’m committed to giving back to the university that gave me so much. As a former student athlete, I know firsthand how important it is to provide our student athletes with the facilities and resources they need to compete at the highest level. This past year Syracuse Athletics kicked off the Champion ‘Cuse campaign and I am looking forward to supporting the university as they continue to navigate this new era of college athletics. Athletics has always been a cornerstone of Syracuse University, and I want to help ensure that tradition continues.

I also proudly support the Maxwell School, where I earned a degree. Public service has always been a defining value of Syracuse, and in today’s charged political climate and shifting geopolitical landscape, developing the next generation of public service leaders has never been more vital.

In addition to financial support, I also give my time. I serve on the D.C. Regional Council and now The Hill Society, which have been two rewarding ways to stay connected and contribute to the Orange community.

 

How long have you been a member of The Hill Society?

I have been a member of The Hill Society for three years.

 

Why did you choose to become a co-chair of The Hill Society?

My parents always taught me that when you’re given opportunities, you have a responsibility to give back and lift others up. Syracuse has opened so many doors for me, it truly has shaped a lot of who I am. Co-chairing The Hill Society felt like a natural way to pay that forward, to stay connected to a place that means so much to me, and to help create opportunities for the next generation of Orange leaders.

 

What are your hopes for The Hill Society’s future?

I hope the Hill Society continues to inspire others to give back in ways that are meaningful to them. We have such a vast and passionate Orange community, and I’d love to see even more people get involved — whether that’s by sharing their time, their resources, or their stories. Reconnecting with Syracuse doesn’t have to be big or formal; even small gestures can make a lasting impact and help keep our community strong and vibrant.

 

Why would you encourage someone to join you in The Hill Society?

I’d encourage anyone who loves Syracuse to join The Hill Society because it’s a meaningful way to stay connected and make a difference. It’s about more than giving, it’s about being part of a community that shares that same love for Syracuse and wants to help others find their own path here. Whether you give your time, your resources, or simply your support, being part of The Hill Society lets you play a role in shaping the next generation of Orange stories.

 

Why do you think giving to Syracuse is important?

Giving to Syracuse is important to me because it allows me to support the next generation of Orange. The university gave me more than a world class education. It gave me experiences, mentors, and a community that shaped who I am today. By giving back, I can help provide opportunities for students to explore, grow, and succeed, just like I did. It’s also a way to ensure that Syracuse continues to thrive, innovate, and maintain the traditions that connect alumni across generations. Supporting the university is my way of staying connected and paying forward the impact it has had on my life.

 

What does it mean to you to be Orange?

Choosing to attend Syracuse University was one of the best decisions I ever made. Beyond the pride of being Orange, the experiences and lessons I gained have shaped who I am today. The lifelong network of alumni continues to open doors, spark opportunities, and remind me every day of the extraordinary community I’m proud to be part of.

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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.