Joseph Iannace ’07
The Hill Society
Member Profile
Joseph Iannace ’07
What was your focus at Syracuse University and what are you doing now?
I was admitted to Whitman, and when I arrived, I only had one thing in mind – to become the next great sports broadcasting legend to come out of SU. It only took me a semester to take off the blinders, realize “the show must go on," and embrace the Whitman community and I am so glad I did. Fast forward four years, I graduated with a degree in Accounting and Finance, and another 18 years later, I am now an Assurance Partner at EY within our Financial Services division, through which I have been seconded to our EY ShinNihon office in Tokyo, Japan for the last three years. The global experience has been nothing short of incredible, and I am so thankful and fortunate to have had Whitman and SU help shape my career.
What is your favorite SU memory?
Everyone always says, “there are too many," which is so true! Looking back, some of the best moments (they weren’t at the time!) were the late nights, group projects and cram sessions spent with my Whitman classmates. Little did we know, through commiserating and finding ways to make light of those challenges, we were forging lifelong friendships.
While we did not date at the time, my now wife Maeve (Newhouse, ’08) and I met at SU. In 2021, we made a trip to campus together, which gave us the opportunity to see all of the changes since graduation and share stories and memories of life on campus. We also brought our dog, Hudson, and did our son’s (Mack, now 3) baby reveal – it was a family moment I will never forget!
Why is it important to give back to Syracuse University?
“Giving back” is not just monetary - I believe it is so important to support the next generation through coaching, mentorship and community-building. Since graduating, I have had the opportunity to get back to campus a few times a year to assist EY with campus recruiting activities, and have met literally thousands of students along the way. Each student has their own unique story, passion and goal, which is inspiring to hear. In turn, we, as alum, can help build on their foundation for success through supporting key programs and scholarships with philanthropy and direct face-to-face interaction.
What does being a member of The Hill Society International (leadership giving) mean to you?
Since living abroad, I have learned that Syracuse University is a global brand. Being an international ambassador allows me to pay it forward. Since my secondment started, I have supported SU programs in Tokyo, Singapore, Bangkok and Seoul. Meeting prospective and current students, sharing my story, and building the global community is rewarding, and I look forward to contributing to the growth and development of all who Bleed Orange.