Syracuse University Athletics

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – The ‘Hoops for the Stars’ program has been highlighted with on-court presentations to honor more than 150 Syracuse area youth at Syracuse men’s basketball games against Marquette (January 7) and West Virginia (January 28) at the Carrier Dome. Saturday, student achievers will be recognized again during the Syracuse versus Connecticut game.

  For the fourth year in a row, Syracuse University and the National Grid Foundation have partnered to implement the program to provide positive reinforcement, recognition of improved academic performance and attendance in school, a decrease in negative behavior, and positive contributions to the community. The program underscores a shared commitment by Syracuse University Athletics and the National Grid Foundation to create opportunities for solutions to educational issues within the Syracuse City School District.

  “We are thrilled to partner with the National Grid Foundation for the ‘Hoops for the Stars’ program for the fourth year in a row”, said Syracuse Director of Athletics Dr. Daryl Gross. “The program has been a great success, and it shows how Syracuse University Athletics and our community can continue to work together to enrich the educational experience for the youth. We thank the National Grid Foundation for making this all possible.”

  Through the National Grid Foundation’s commitment of $30,000, Syracuse University Athletics is providing tickets to 12 men’s basketball home games. Ticket recipients include 2,300 student achievers from the Syracuse City School District’s eight middle schools and a parent or guardian to select Orange men’s games, including Connecticut and Georgetown.

  “The ‘Hoops for the Stars’ program has reached thousands of students—and it has made a difference in these students’ lives,” said Melanie Littlejohn, National Grid Foundation Board Member.
“This is a meaningful program that National Grid Foundation and Syracuse University support to encourage students to reach their highest potential.” 

  “We are extremely grateful to Syracuse University and the National Grid Foundation for their continued support of ‘Hoops for the Stars.’ This program is a tremendous opportunity to reward our students for excelling in school,“ said Syracuse Superintendent Sharon Contreras.