The father of a Syracuse University alumnus has ascended the throne as the king of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al Saud died Friday.

His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Salman, who graduated from SU in 2009 after receiving a master’s of social science degree from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, is the son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, who assumed the throne following his brother’s death, according to an SU News release. Prior to becoming king, King Salman served as Saudi Minister of Defense.

Prince Sultan, the SU alumnus, received the chancellor’s medal for outstanding achievement in November 2012. United States Vice President Joe Biden is also a recipient of the award. Sultan is the president of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities and is the first Arab astronaut.

King Abdullah died Friday after suffering from a lung infection. He had frequently been in ill health in recent years and King Salman had recently taken on the responsibilities of the throne, according to the BBC.

Chancellor Kent Syverud has reached out directly to Prince Sultan to express condolences on the passing of King Abdullah, according to the release.