Syracuse Sun

Hendricks Chapel’s chaplains gathered to offer words of hope and inspiration at the 2023 Blessing of the Students. Otto made a guest appearance at the ceremony. A historic gift to Hendricks Chapel, the largest since its dedication in 1930, will launch a $3 million Challenge Campaign to enrich student life and learning through the spiritual heart of Syracuse University.

The recent anonymous gift will be used to support various chapel programs and initiatives, to prepare engaged citizens, scholars, and leaders for participation in a changing global society. Through the connection of family members who attended Syracuse University, two of whom were married at Hendricks Chapel, the donors are inspired by the chapel’s mission and want to support its efforts through an unrestricted gift that inspires others to give. The family member expressed their sentiment, saying, "I like the idea of universities having an opportunity to be brought together in a spiritual and religious setting."

Reverend Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, expressed gratitude for the generous donation, stating, “For Hendricks Chapel to be on the receiving end of such remarkable generosity is an honor and a joy.”

The initial $1 million gift has already made a significant impact, as various individuals and groups have shared their appreciation for the support received from Hendricks Chapel. Father Gerry Waterman, Catholic chaplain, expressed, “We are very blessed to be receiving funds from Hendricks Chapel this year." Jillian Juni, executive director of Syracuse Hillel, also shared, “It is hard to put into words the enormous impact that Hendricks Chapel’s support has on the Syracuse Hillel community." Additionally, Rev. Devon Bartholomew, a nondenominational Christian protestant chaplain, highlighted how Hendricks Chapel has supported service trips, enabling students to engage in meaningful work.

Other individuals, such as Leondra Tyler, student coordinator for the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry, José “Peppie” Calvar, DMA, director of the Hendricks Chapel Choir, and Imam Amir Durić, Muslim chaplain, also emphasized the positive impact of funding from Hendricks Chapel on their respective programs and initiatives.

To support the Hendricks Chapel Challenge Gift Campaign before June 30, 2024, individuals can visit bit.ly/GiveToHendricks or contact Jeff Comanici at jjcomani@syr.edu or 315.420.9330. Further information about events and programming at Hendricks Chapel can be found at chapel.syracuse.edu.