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A New Era: Inaugurating J. Michael Haynie

Syracuse University installs J. Michael Haynie as the 13th Chancellor and President of Syracuse University on Sept. 18, 2026.

About the Inauguration

The inauguration of a university chancellor is one of higher education's most enduring traditions—a moment when an institution pauses to mark a new chapter, affirm its values and welcome its next leader before the full witness of its community. 

On Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, the Syracuse University community gathered in the JMA Wireless Dome for the Investiture Ceremony installing J. Michael Haynie as the University’s 13th Chancellor and President, surrounded by academic delegates, faculty, students, staff and alumni from across the Orange community. Events extended across two days—from a summit celebrating academic excellence and a game watch on the day before the ceremony to a community festival afterwards, reflecting Chancellor Haynie’s belief that the best version of Syracuse University is one built together. 

View the highlights

Chancellor Mike Haynie at Commencement 2026

About Chancellor Haynie

Learn more about the Chancellor and his extensive record of service and commitment to Syracuse University.

Learn about the Chancellor

A Message from Chancellor J. Michael Haynie

Syracuse University is not just an institution to me. It is home. It is a community that has shaped me, challenged me and given me the privilege of doing the most meaningful work of my life.

I am profoundly humbled and honored to serve as Syracuse University's 13th Chancellor and President, and I am deeply grateful to every member of this community whose voices, wisdom and investment in this University made this moment possible.

The inauguration weekend we have planned reflects everything I believe about this place: that our greatest strength is each other. From the Investiture Ceremony to the Syracuse Summit to a celebration with our students, this weekend belongs to all of us.

I look forward to seeing you in September. Come ready to celebrate, to connect and to recommit, together, to the extraordinary future that lies ahead for Syracuse University.

Go Orange!

J. Michael Haynie
13th Chancellor and President, Syracuse University