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College students may experience a range of stressful events and time periods. From feelings of uncertainty to times of personal, family and/or community crisis, both on and off campus, the is ready to help guide and provide assistance.

One of the largest teams of its nature in the nation, Syracuse University SOS boasts seven dedicated individuals who work throughout the year to ensure that in times of need, students, alongside their supporters, faculty and staff, know and experience the strong yet individualized support of the Orange community.

The acronym “SOS” is intentional, it is an internationally recognized distress signal used to request help. “The nickname ‘SOS’ says it all, it embodies the urgency of our response to student support. There is no student issue too big or too small,” says Shelley Crawford, director of Student Outreach and Support. “Whether it’s a student self-seeking support or a member of their faculty, staff or family, always know we encourage members of the Orange community, near or far, to contact our team whenever it is felt that a student needs support of any kind.”

SOS hosts an open and stigma-free space where students are encouraged to express their concerns early and often. “Reaching out doesn’t always mean something is seriously wrong, it simply means you’re taking a proactive step to get guidance, ask questions or explore available resources,” says Sabrina Brown ’26, office assistant.

Partnering With Student Outreach and Support

From academic, adjustment and transition support to emergency aid, navigating an illness, conflicts and more, whether the student’s issue is something the team can directly help with or not, they ensure a campuswide support network is ignited. The team is not just committed to helping students maintain their academics but also is dedicated to supporting their overall social and emotional well-being. To properly navigate whatever they may be struggling with, the SOS team connects students with guidance and additional resources.

“I wish more of the campus community understood just how many students we quietly support through challenges that go far beyond the classroom,” says Crawford. “Our work is rooted in seeing and humanizing each student as a whole person and that approach makes a real difference in whether a student stays, perseveres and ultimately graduates. We champion our students, we are connectors and a constant in students’ lives when they need it most.”

Students do not need to be in the midst of a crisis to contact the team. In fact, they do not need to have any life-altering or major issues at all. If feeling unsure, anxious or overwhelmed about anything pertaining to their academic or personal life, they are welcome to contact SOS.

“From crisis to concerns in question, our goal is to help create a positive and supported student experience. Once a student connects with a case manager for the first time, they can reach out to them throughout their time at Syracuse University for support,” says office coordinator Sarah O’Neill.

Breaking Barriers and Strengthening Access to Support

No matter the issue and even if unsure where to begin, students shouldn’t feel alone in the process of seeking support. Student Outreach and Support is a built-in team available to strengthen the student experience and help students not only navigate times of uncertainty but to thrive as a student, graduate and find success throughout a lifetime.

“For students we create a one-on-one relationship rooted in support, advocacy, guidance and resources. Our consultations prioritize privacy and are equally empowering to those who may be unsure of how to best support their student,” says associate director Catherine “Katie” Storey. “No one should feel embarrassed or worried about reaching out.”

The team prioritizes human connection through being present and attentive to each unique situation. Offering personalized and one-on-one support, a team of non-clinical case managers is embedded within SOS. In addition to appointments and prioritizing students needing immediate help, case managers offer drop-in hours.

The team also understands that in a time of uncertainty it can be intimidating to also meet someone new and share what can feel like vulnerable concerns. To make the first step of reaching out for support a little less daunting, putting a face to a name and a heart behind the help, SOS case managers proactively open the door for connection with words of welcome.

“We’re a holistic support team for everyone,” says Sue Sugar, case manager. “Whether you have an urgent concern or something that simply does not feel quite right, we want to hear from you. No issue is too small.”

“A faculty member expressing care, a staff member taking a few extra minutes to listen or a parent encouraging their student to seek

help, can all be powerful entry points to support, support that builds or contributes to the foundation of trust that helps grow the access to our work,” says Sandra Valdes-Lopez, case manager.

“While we often engage with students in times of concern or crisis, our role is also preventative, educational and supportive across the student experience,” says Wilfredo “Wil” Perez, case manager.

“Witnessing students’ resilience and growth is what makes this work so meaningful,” says Amber Saint Joy, case manager. “There is something truly special about being on that journey with them, walking alongside a student as they face challenges, find their footing and discover that they don’t have to navigate it all alone.”

Learn more and take action to support a student or receive support by visiting the , calling 315.443.4357 (HELP) or emailing studentsupport@syr.edu.

Story by Mirren Grimason ’29