Mr. Brian P. McLane, Honorary
A 1968 graduate of Syracuse University, Brian McLane has had to overcome more obstacles than most who leave SU with a degree. Afflicted since childbirth with Cerebral Palsy, McLane has been confined to a wheelchair his entire life. However, he refuses to view himself as being physically challenged. His refusal to be hindered by his handicap has set an example for others with similar disabilities. In addition, McLane has been an advocate for and champion of their rights, including lobbying for and consulting on the design of facilities for the physically challenged in the Carrier Dome and other major public venues.
McLane has held many jobs throughout Syracuse and the state of New York. He started as PR director at the Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce. He has served stints as Executive Assistant to former Assembly Minority Leader Melvin Zimmer and Deputy Commissioner for Parks for the State of New York. He is currently employed as the Assistant Commissioner of Education for the delivery of services to the handicapped for the State of New York.
Four years ago, McLane was inducted into the National Hall of Fame for Person with Disabilities in Columbus, Ohio. He joined previous honorees including Helen Keller and Franklin D. Roosevelt. On the same night he was honored in Ohio, McLane was notified that a major scholarship had been established in his name at SU. McLane is also a well-known motivational speaker, frequently presenting to secondary school and college audiences. He holds a number of honorary degrees and awards from various educational and civic organizations.
One of McLane's biggest thrills is following his beloved alma mater's athletic teams. McLane travels to most away games within reasonable driving distance and he has been to all of the basketball and lacrosse Final Fours and most of the football bowl games since his graduation in 1969. During halftime of a 2003 basketball game, McLean was named the SU Fan of the Year. In addition to being a fan of the game of basketball, McLane coached the Syracuse 7-Up Semi-Pro Basketball team, which won 132 games and six titles.
McClane is also a board member of the Syracuse University Alumni Association, Inc.
