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A portrait of former President Joe Biden was unveiled at Syracuse University on Tuesday (April 14). The portrait, painted by renowned artist Michael Shane Neal, now hangs in Dineen Hall at the College of Law, where Biden graduated in 1968 with a law degree. The 83-year-old Biden attended the unveiling ceremony and addressed the crowd, emphasizing his lifelong commitment to democracy and crediting Syracuse University for shaping his understanding of the law's power.
Biden, who has visited Syracuse more than any other U.S. president, shared personal reflections during the event. He spoke fondly of his late son, Beau Biden, also an alumnus of Syracuse University, who served as Delaware's attorney general before passing away in 2015. "Sharing Syracuse as an alma mater is one of the many things that makes me remember my son with such pride," Biden said.
The portrait, depicting Biden leaning on a table with a grin, aims to capture his strength, courage, and determination, according to artist Neal. College of Law Dean Terence Lau praised Biden as one of the school's most outstanding alumni, stating, "His portrait in Dineen Hall will remind every student who passes through our doors that a Syracuse Law education doesn’t just open doors. It can change the course of history."
Biden's connection to Syracuse University extends beyond his student years. He has delivered commencement addresses at the university multiple times and received several honors, including the Chancellor’s Medal and the George Arents Pioneer Medal. The portrait will be on permanent display in the Law Library Reading Room, accessible to the public during regular library hours.