'Cuse Conversations

The cutting-edge weight loss and diabetes research developed by medicinal chemist Robert Doyle has offered significant and consistent weight loss and glucose control to its recipients through peptide-based treatments. Doyle and his fellow collaborators reported that two new peptide compounds­­—GEP44 and KCEM1—considerably reduce body weight and normalize blood glucose levels without causing the typical negative side effects experienced by patients who take currently available GLP-1-based anti-obesity drugs. Doyle, the Jack and Laura H. Milton Professor and Dean's Professor of Chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences,focuses his research on pharmaceutical drug development for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. On this episode, Doyle discusses his breakthrough weight loss research, the important role students play in advancing his research, and how, through philanthropy, his work has come to life.

Syracuse University is committed to removing barriers and creating opportunities so all undergraduates can study abroad or away before they graduate. More than 50% of students explore the world through a Syracuse Abroad center, according to Nicole Collins, director of strategic partnerships and outreach with Syracuse Abroad. With over 100 study abroad programs in 60 locations around the world, there’s a unique opportunity for every student who wants to immerse themselves in a new culture. While the spring has traditionally been when the majority of students study abroad, Collins says there’s been a shift towards the fall semester in recent years, with more students capitalizing on increased access to opportunities, increased access to financial aid, grants and scholarships and more flexibility with the programs. On this episode, Collins and Sophia Moore ’25, who enjoyed a life-changing Syracuse Abroad experience in Santiago, Chile, during the Fall 2023 semester, discuss the many benefits of studying abroad in the fall.

Syracuse University has a long, proud history of serving our veterans and military-connected students that dates back to World War I and the post-World War II era when thousands of veterans embarked on their journey to a college degree through the G.I. Bill. One of the central organizations on campus that helps the University accomplish this mission is the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA), which, for the last 10 years has played a critical role in helping veterans, military-connected students and their family members pursue their higher education dreams. Dwayne Murray ’97 is living out his dream job as the OVMA’s deputy director, and he’s proud of the work the organization does through its programs and initiatives while serving as the University’s central hub for veteran and military-connected students. On this “’Cuse Conversation,” Murray discusses the profound impact the OVMA has had on campus and around the world, explores what sets Syracuse University apart as a best place for veterans, shares his love for working with veterans and military-connected students and more.