About Us

The Office of Supportive Services (O.S.S.) works collaboratively with the Office of Admissions to identify and enroll students who are historically under represented in higher education. Once students are enrolled, the office continues its collaborative relationships with the schools, colleges, and other administrative offices to provide comprehensive academic support to the students it serves. Background For over thirty years O.S.S. has focused its efforts on the access, retention and graduation of low-income, first generation, under-represented students at Syracuse University. The programs and interventions developed by O.S.S. have evolved over the years to keep pace with the cultural, economic and technological shifts in society at large. In addition to providing an educational opportunity O.S.S. has always been committed to the development of student’s critical thinking, political awareness, leadership ability, cultural sensitivity and character. Mission Serving Students to Promote Personal Achievement and Academic Success The mission of the office is to provide access to and an equitable opportunity to succeed in higher education for those who would not otherwise have the opportunity. The work of O.S.S. exemplifies Syracuse University’s core values: quality, caring, diversity, innovation and service. While our programs and interventions are designed to retain and graduate historically under-represented students, we strive to do much more through continuous development and innovation. Like our students, the staff represent a diverse group of individuals. Beginning in SummerStart, the caring relationships that are formed between our staff and the students, and between the students themselves, develop over the course of four years and extend through graduation and beyond as program alumni.The counselors are able to track, facilitate and participate in students’ development within this environment, which enhances the quality of their experience, and represents a comprehensive commitment to service. We work closely with other offices and programs within the division of Student Support and Retention and other members of the SU community to realize the commitment of Syracuse University to helping all students reach their highest level of achievement. Programs The office administers the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) and the Student Support Services Program (SSS). These Programs offer the following services: Academic Counseling Career Counseling Computer skills instruction Financial aid and advocacy Leadership experiences Peer Mentoring Personal and developmental support Professional and peer tutoring SummerStart (Summer Orientation program) Writing enhancement