A third generation Syracuse University alumnus, Scott Casanova first started working in Event Productions when he was a student in the fall of 1994. After earning his bachelor’s degree in technical theater, it didn’t take long for Casanova to realize he wanted to be challenged and excited by his job — a revelation that led him back to SU.

As an associate director for Student Centers and Programming Services, Casanova works to supervise events operations in the Schine and Goldstein student centers. SCPS also provides and oversees event support for Mayfest, Juice Jam and other non-academic events.

Some of the events are fairly routine, such as admissions programs for prospective students, while others, including concerts and speakers, require more personalized attention. Casanova said they can go from having a single person at a podium to having to set up full light and sound equipment for nationally known performers.

It’s this variety of events he likes best. Casanova said he relishes the opportunity to see student workers develop a passion for the job.

“I’ve learned to never underestimate a motivated student,” he said. “It’s always amazing to me to see a student that’s really interested in what we have to offer.”

Casanova emphasized that putting on any event is a team effort. When overseeing large-scale events, including Vice President Joe Biden’s visit last semester, the SCPS staff must coordinate both technical and venue needs in order for everything to run smoothly.

Having spent several years at the university, Casanova is no stranger to the way the campus runs.

“My father was actually in human resources here for almost 40 years,” he said, “so I kind of grew up on campus.”

Casanova’s passion for SU is obvious not only through his interactions with students and faculty, but in the Syracuse posters and memorabilia covering his office walls.

The SU decorations, however, are challenged for space by Casanova’s other passion: Star Wars. Stormtroopers and SU basketball players stare at each other from adjacent walls, surrounded by a collection of Star Wars action figures.

Casanova’s love of the franchise, much like his love of the university, is reflected in his daughter, who wears a blue and orange Stormtrooper t-shirt.

“It’s a bit of a family thing,” Casanova said, smiling.

dbertoli@syr.edu

Published on February 17, 2016 at 12:01 am