The Legacy of the Ballentines: Transforming Club Sports at Syracuse University
When Steven “Steve” W. Ballentine and his wife, Beth (Shuman) Ballentine, reflect on their time at Syracuse University, their memories are steeped in the camaraderie and joy of club sports. As alumni of the class of 1983, both Steve and Beth have carried their love for sports and their alma mater into their adult lives, culminating in a remarkable gift that will forever change the landscape of club sports at Syracuse.
A Journey Through Club Sports
Steve’s recollections of playing club volleyball at Syracuse are filled with nostalgia. He fondly remembers the challenges faced by club teams in the early 1980s, where funding was scarce, and players often had to contribute out of their own pockets. “I remember each of us on the team had to chip in $5 so we could travel to play at the University of Rochester,” he recalls. These experiences not only fostered a sense of belonging but also highlighted the importance of teamwork and resilience.
It is this foundation of shared experiences that inspired the Ballentines to give back. Their recent gift of nearly $2 million is part of the Forever Orange Campaign and aims to create a dedicated field for club sports, complete with lights for evening practices and competitions. Additionally, the gift establishes an endowed fund to support club sports programs, helping participants with fees, equipment, and travel expenses. In recognition of this transformative contribution, Syracuse University’s Club Sports Program will now bear the Ballentine name.
A Family Passion for Sports
For the Ballentines, sports have always been a significant part of their lives. Beth played on a women’s ice hockey team for nearly two decades, while Steve is an avid tennis player. “We’ve made lifelong friends through sports,” Beth shares. “For me, it’s about physical health, connections with people, and sisterhood.” Their shared passion for athletics has not only strengthened their bond but has also shaped their commitment to fostering similar experiences for future generations of Syracuse students.
Commitment to Syracuse University
The Ballentines have remained deeply connected to Syracuse University through their philanthropic efforts. They have previously made lead gifts to establish the Ballentine Investment Institute at the Whitman School of Management and have supported various initiatives within the Martin J. Whitman School of Management and Athletics. Their academic journeys at Syracuse—Beth in advertising at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and Steve in business administration with dual majors in finance and accounting—have laid the groundwork for their successful careers and ongoing commitment to the university.
Steve’s involvement with Syracuse extends to his role as a member of the University’s Board of Trustees since 1998, where he serves on several committees, including the Executive, Investment and Endowment, and Athletics Committees. His dedication to enhancing the student experience through athletics is evident in his advocacy for club sports.
Enhancing the Student Experience
Chancellor Kent Syverud expressed gratitude for the Ballentines’ generosity, stating, “Their support will create an even more outstanding experience for the hundreds of students every year who find a place of belonging at Syracuse through club sports.” The Ballentine Club Sports Program will not only enhance the athletic experience but will also promote fitness, teamwork, and leadership among students.
Steve emphasizes the importance of making club sports accessible to all students, particularly those who may face financial barriers. “There are so many young people like me who weren’t sports superstars but played sports in high school and really miss that part of their lives when they get to college,” he explains. The Ballentines’ gift aims to alleviate these financial challenges, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to participate in club sports.
A Vision for the Future
Currently, Syracuse University boasts 45 club sports teams with over 1,500 student participants. These teams are primarily organized by student leaders who work tirelessly to manage their programs while balancing academic responsibilities. The Ballentines took the time to meet with these student leaders to understand how their financial support could make the most significant impact. “It was an incredibly eye-opening and impressive experience,” Steve remarks, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication of the student leaders.
The newly established Ballentine Club Sports Program Endowed Fund will provide essential resources for teams, enhancing participation in post-season competitions and equipping team leaders with the tools needed to manage their programs effectively. “We’re big on teaching someone to fish rather than just handing them the fish,” Steve states, reflecting their philosophy of empowerment through education and resources.
The Ballentine Field for Club Sports
The Ballentine Field for Club Sports will be located on South Campus, adjacent to the Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion. This state-of-the-art facility will feature irrigation and lighting, allowing teams to practice and compete after classes, even after sunset. The Ballentines envision this field as a space where students from diverse backgrounds can come together, fostering community and collaboration beyond the classroom.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact
The Ballentines’ commitment to Syracuse University and its students is a testament to the power of philanthropy in shaping the future of education and athletics. Their generous gift will not only enhance the club sports experience but will also create lasting connections among students, promoting physical health, teamwork, and leadership skills.
As Syracuse University continues to evolve, the Ballentines’ legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of students to embrace the spirit of sports and community, ensuring that the Orange promise of belonging and excellence endures for years to come.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private research university dedicated to advancing knowledge across disciplines, driving breakthrough discoveries, and cultivating breakout leadership. With 13 schools and colleges offering over 200 customizable majors, Syracuse prepares students to tackle the world’s challenges through interdisciplinary approaches and a powerful community.
About Forever Orange: The Campaign for Syracuse University
The Forever Orange Campaign aims to enhance academic excellence, transform the student experience, and expand unique opportunities for learning and growth. With a goal of raising $1.5 billion and engaging 125,000 individual donors, the campaign embodies Syracuse University’s commitment to leaving the world better than it was found. For more information, visit foreverorange.syr.edu.