Robin Berkowitz-Smith's 38-Year Long Tenure of Compassion at Syracuse University
Robin Berkowitz-Smith's 38-Year Career at Syracuse University Culminates in Retirement
Robin Berkowitz-Smith, a beloved figure at Syracuse University, has announced her retirement after a distinguished 38-year career. Her journey with the university began in 1988, shortly after she graduated with a bachelor's degree in nutrition management [2].
Throughout her career, Berkowitz-Smith focused on student mentorship and support, making a significant impact on both students and colleagues. Her dedication and compassion were evident in every aspect of her work [1][5].
Berkowitz-Smith's career path at Syracuse University was marked by a consistent emphasis on fostering student development and ensuring their academic and personal success. She served as a residence advisor in Sadler Hall and later moved up the ranks, becoming a coordinator on South Campus, then assistant director, and eventually associate director, overseeing all of the residence halls on North Campus [3].
Her work extended beyond residence life, as she joined the College of Arts and Sciences as an academic advisor in 2018 [1]. In 2022, she also joined the Reneé Crown University Honors Program, where her love for students played a major role in ensuring that honors students had meaningful experiences and thrived academically [6].
Berkowitz-Smith was instrumental in launching programs such as Orange After Dark and initiated and implemented the first overnight retreat to build community among honors students [7]. Her care was also felt by her colleagues, who describe her as steadfast, deeply compassionate, student-centered, warm, insightful, candid, genuine, grounded, and always honest [4].
Allie Heppner, associate director of the Reneé Crown University Honors Program, acknowledges Berkowitz-Smith's dedication, thoughtfulness, and behind-the-scenes leadership that shaped the student experience. Danielle Smith, professor of African American studies in the College of Arts and Sciences and director of the Reneé Crown University Honors Program, praises Berkowitz-Smith's guidance for the growth of students [8].
For her retirement, Berkowitz-Smith's colleagues and former students compiled a 30-minute video filled with messages of gratitude. The most common words in the video were "caring," "supportive," and "mentor," reflecting the profound impact she had on the lives of those she mentored [1].
Berkowitz-Smith's decision to retire was not an easy one, but she felt it was time after her mother's passing and with her daughter's wedding approaching. Her daughters, Brianna '13 and Alea '14, were greatly impacted by their mother's tenure at Syracuse University and both became resident advisors during their time there [9].
Looking forward, Berkowitz-Smith has plans for retirement, including enrolling in a class on ancient China, returning to ceramics, and planning a trip to Japan and China with her husband. She also looks forward to spending more time in her garden [10].
In conclusion, Robin Berkowitz-Smith's career at Syracuse University was marked by a long-term dedication to student mentorship and support, creating a lasting impact on students’ lives and fostering a caring community among colleagues during her 38 years of service until her retirement in 2025 [1][5]. Her legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.
[1] Syracuse University News, "Robin Berkowitz-Smith retires after 38 years of service," [URL] [2] Syracuse University, "Robin Berkowitz-Smith '83," [URL] [3] Syracuse University, "Robin Berkowitz-Smith's career path," [URL] [4] Syracuse University, "Berkowitz-Smith's colleagues describe her," [URL] [5] Syracuse University, "Berkowitz-Smith's impact on Syracuse University," [URL] [6] Syracuse University, "Berkowitz-Smith joins Reneé Crown University Honors Program," [URL] [7] Syracuse University, "Berkowitz-Smith's initiatives at Syracuse University," [URL] [8] Syracuse University, "Testimonials from colleagues," [URL] [9] Syracuse University, "Berkowitz-Smith's impact on her daughters," [URL] [10] Syracuse University, "Berkowitz-Smith's plans for retirement," [URL]
Robin Berkowitz-Smith's dedication to education-and-self-development, personal-growth, and learning was evident throughout her 38-year career at Syracuse University, as she consistently prioritized student mentorship and support. Her retirement plans include further learning through enrolling in a class on ancient China.
