Canisius Magazine Fall 17

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CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGAZINE | FALL 2017


president’sperspective

As this issue of Canisius Magazine goes to press, we’re still celebrating the announcement of our new initiative aimed at college affordability: Excellence Within Reach. On October 3, Canisius announced that for fall 2018, the published tuition for Canisius will be reduced by 23 percent, almost $8,000, from nearly $35,000 to $27,000. This will take tuition back to what it was in 2008. Over the past several years, I have discussed in this space the challenges that all of higher education is facing, chief among them is the cost of colleges and universities. At Canisius, we have attempted to address cost issues at every turn in an effort to keep tuition increases down. Alumni and friends have responded by helping to create 445 endowed scholarship funds at Canisius with a current market value of $90.2 million. With Excellence Within Reach, we take another bold step to change the perception that Canisius is out of reach financially. It will introduce a more realistic pricing model, which we hope will encourage more students to consider Canisius and take advantage of the transformative education and exceptional outcomes that have always been the hallmark of a Canisius education. The reaction to this new initiative has been very positive so far and we’re hard at work trying to convert this enthusiasm into increased freshman class enrollment next fall. Among the freshmen we hope to recruit are sons and daughters, grandsons and granddaughters, and nieces and nephews of Canisius alumni. We celebrate in this issue the deep connections that so many families share with the college and the special place that Canisius has in their hearts and in their families. I know of what I speak. My own connection with the college goes back to 1962 when my oldest brother, Paul, arrived here as a freshman. It continues to 2017 when I presented a graduate degree to my oldest daughter, Caroline, and a baccalaureate degree to my niece, Morgan, the 17th and 18th degrees earned by members of our immediate family. When I am asked about my connection to Canisius, I say, “It’s in the blood!”


features

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Faculty Profile

<<< Waves of Impact Lauren Cavanaugh, PhD and Sara Rademacher MS ’18 host a summer surf camp that helps to build self-confidence and self-reliance in children with autism.

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Road Scholars

A View from the Border Canisius students travel to the city of Nogales to witness the realities of immigration.

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Cover Story

Family Ties Passing down the tradition of a Canisius education from one generation to the next.

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Alumni Spotlights

Very Smart Brotha Damon J. Young ’02 probes black experiences in pop culture and current events, as co-founder and senior editor of VSB.

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Community Building Executive Director of Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin Martin House, Mary F. Roberts ’77 ministers to one of Buffalo’s greatest architectural assets.

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Advancement

Annual Report Canisius says thank you to its generous alumni, friends and family.


blue&goldbriefs

College Magazine FALL 2017 I VOLUME 17, ISSUE 3

President John J. Hurley Vice President for Institutional Advancement William M. Collins Director of College Communications & Executive Editor Eileen C. Herbert ’04, MS ’15 Managing Editor Audrey R. Browka Creative Director Patty Herkey Art Director Cody Weiler Contributing Writers Erik Brady ’76 Kristin E. Etu ’91 Martin Haumesser Kate Lockhart Photography Tom Wolf ’86 Cover Illustration Cody Weiler We are eager to hear your comments about Canisius College Magazine. Please send correspondence to:

Canisius makes a bold move to make Catholic, Jesuit education more accessible to all Canisius College set a new standard on the issue of college affordability last month with the launch of Excellence Within Reach. The tuition reduction initiative lowers the current tuition for full-time undergraduate students by 23 percent - from $34,966 to $27,000. The new initiative also reduces housing costs by $2,000. In addition, Canisius will continue to offer scholarships and need-based grants, further reducing a student’s cost to attend. The move sets the published tuition rate back to what it was a decade ago. More significantly, it narrows the gap between the college’s sticker price and what students actually pay after financial aid is applied “making Canisius a more realistic possibility from the start,” said President John J. Hurley in announcing Excellence Within Reach (see President’s Perspective, page 2). The tuition reset coupled with the reduction in the college’s residence hall rates now renders Canisius one of the most affordable four-year private institutions in the Northeast. WEB EXTRA > Learn more about Excellence Within Reach at www.canisius.edu/withinreach.

Canisius College Magazine 2001 Main Street, Lyons Hall Room 209, Buffalo, NY 14208 Phone 716-888-2790 Fax 716-888-2778 Email ccmag@canisius.edu Postmaster send change of address to: Canisius College, 2001 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14208

Canisius College furthered its ascent into the top tier of America’s best colleges, coming in at No. 22 among 137 regional universities in the North, according to the 2018 U.S. News & World Report rankings. The publication recognized Canisius for its first-year student retention rate, average graduation rate, small class sizes, studentfaculty ratio and alumni giving rate. U.S. News & World Report also ranked Canisius 9th on its Great Schools, Great Prices list and 9th on its list of Best Colleges for Veterans. WEB EXTRA > To view Canisius’ full rankings report, visit canisius.edu/magazine.

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blue&goldbriefs Nine Appointed to Board of Trustees Nine new members joined the Canisius College Board of Trustees this fall for three-year terms. The Board formulates and recommends policy to President John J. Hurley. The new members are:

Pauline Costanzo Will ’93 Partner, Bennett Schechter Arcuri & Will LLP

Kimberly A. (Bartkowiak) DeTrask ’95 Senior Vice President, Global Head of Capital Management, State Street Corporation, Boston, MA

Stephen F. Jackson ’82, MBA ’87 Partner, Ernst & Young LLP New York, NY

Midfielder Erica Evans ’18 became the third female student-athlete at Canisius to be named MAAC Female Athlete of the Year.

Student-Athletes Score Well in the Classroom The latest student-athlete academic report has Golden Griffins scoring high marks in the classroom. Christopher M. Kelly ’83 Partner, Jones Day Cleveland, OH

Mark J. Lema ’72, MD, PhD Chair of Anesthesiology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Rev. Cyril P. Opeil, SJ Associate Professor of Physics, Boston College

All 17 varsity programs boasted a 3.0 cumulative GPA during the 2016-17 academic year. Fourteen teams recorded a team GPA of 3.25 or higher last spring. The Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) named 179 Canisius student-athletes to its academic honor roll, which requires a 3.2 GPA or higher. The MAAC also named Erica Evans ’18 as the Female Athlete of the Year. In doing so, she became the first women’s lacrosse player in conference history to earn the league’s highest individual honor.

Michael J. Todaro Executive Vice President, M&T Bank

Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, SJ Superior & Director, John LaFarge House, Jesuit House of Studies Cambridge, MA

Lillie V. Wiley-Upshaw ’91 (Former) Vice Dean for Student Engagement and Inclusion, University at Buffalo School of Law

WEB EXTRA > Read more about the Golden Griffins’ academic standings at canisius.edu/magazine.

Six Join Canisius Board of Regents The Canisius College Board of Regents welcomed six new members at the start of the academic year. The Board serves as an advisory group to President John J. Hurley. Members serve three-year terms. The new Board of Regents members are:

Sebastian W. Fasanello ’85 First Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch, The Kane Fasanello Group

Edward J. Kelley ’08 Senior Consultant, Capital Markets, CAPCO Charlotte, NC

Adam E. Kisailus ’97, MBA ’16, PhD Assistant Dean, Division of Educational Affairs, Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Susan (Lundquist) O’Sullivan ’04 Vice President, Ingram Micro

Jeffery F. Swiatek ’88 Partner, Hodgson Russ LLP

David C. Wagner ’00 Senior Vice President, Roosevelt & Cross Inc.

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facultyprofile

The research of Lauren Cavanaugh (left) and Sarah Rademacher (right), titled “How a SURFing Social Skills Curriculum Can Impact Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders,” was published in the Journal of the International Association of Special Education.

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facultyprofile

Waves of Impact

An innovative summer surf camp helps to build self-confidence in children with autism. Story: Kristin E. Etu ’91 I Photo: Tom Wolf ’86

Lauren K. Cavanaugh, PhD and Sara B. Rademacher MS ’18 aren’t your stereotypical surfers. They didn’t grow up with a beach in their backyard. Their days don’t revolve around the latest wind and weather forecast. And ‘gnarly’ isn’t in their vernacular, unless perhaps they’re cheering on the children in their surf camp. The pair co-direct Learning Through Sun, Sand and SURF. The summer program, held on the shores of Mustang Island in Port Aransas, TX, is having waves of impact on children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). “The goal is to improve social skills and provide multisensory experiences to children with ASD through surfing,” Rademacher explains. One of every 88 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with ASD according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The severity of symptoms varies from mildly impaired to severely disabled but the hallmarks of the disorder are the same: difficulty with socialemotional interaction, communication and behavior. Children with ASD also struggle with sensory processing, a condition in which the brain is oversensitive to sights, sounds and smells. Helping to mitigate these core symptoms are the healing powers of the ocean. “Children who participate exhibit an increase in self-confidence, self-reliance, self-management and social engagement,” says Cavanaugh, assistant professor of kinesiology. “These are skill sets that will help them focus in the classroom and live a better quality of life.” Cavanaugh and Rademacher – both recreational surfers - began collaborating on the surf camp in 2007. Rademacher was an occupational therapist for a local school district in Denton, TX. She and a colleague received grant funding to implement a surf camp but they needed someone to gather pre- and post-data on camper and family perceptions. Cavanaugh, a doctoral student at Texas Woman’s University, joined the team upon the recommendation of her professor Joyce Rademacher, PhD (Sara’s mother). Though deemed a non-traditional therapy, surfing lends itself to the multisensory environment necessary for effective treatment of children on the spectrum. “The waves and warm ocean water generate a relaxing and rhythmic environment,” Cavanaugh explains. Water resistance also helps enhance muscle activity, build motor skills and generate full body awareness. Surfing is just one component of the camp curriculum. In addition to riding the waves, campers engage in arts and crafts, beach games, relay races and sandcastle building. Each activity gets students to practice four key social skills, referred to as SURF: Stay in the group, Use your SEE Steps - sound, expression and eye contact, Remember to give compliments and Find a friend to talk to. “Socially, he is more confident, makes friends more easily and finds shared interests with others,” says Lauren Koening of her 11-year old son, Alex, who attended camp the past four years. “Physically, he is a more skilled surfer and now wants to mentor other campers.” Due to the obvious need for ocean water, Texas’ Mustang Towers community has played host to the surf camp for the past 10 years. But an increasing local need for social skills programs prompted Cavanaugh and Rademacher to modify their camp curriculum for students with ASD in the Buffalo Public School District. They implemented the Learning Through Sun, Sand and SURF curriculum (minus the surf component) at Highgate Heights Elementary School a few years ago. The pair is also applying for grant monies, which they’ll use to fly children from Buffalo to Texas to participate in the summer camp. “Surf camp levels the playing field,” says Cavanaugh. “It’s a stress-free arena of recreational play that values and nurtures the diverse means of self-expression in children with ASD while increasing the likelihood that the skills they learn will translate to future school and recreational settings.”


A View from the Border Canisius students travel to the border city of Nogales to witness the realities of immigration Story: Audrey R. Browka

Along a rugged expanse of the Arizona-Mexico border looms an imposing, rust-colored wall. Made of structural steel beams, each separated by four-inch gaps – just wide enough to peer through – the 10-mile stockade reaches upwards of 20 feet. The barrier cuts through rolling hills, steep ravines and barren desert. It also severs in half the city of Nogales, a key deportation point for thousands of undocumented men, women and children in the United States. And much like the physical wall that separates it, the public and political rhetoric that has besieged this split city has made it ‘ground zero’ in a new cultural divide.

Wrobel was one of several students who participated in the Kino Border Initiative (KBI) offered by the Office of Campus Ministry. Founded by Jesuits, the binational organization ministers to migrants newly deported from the U.S. to Nogales, Mexico, while playing host to students and scholars who want to learn more about the complex realities of U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policies.

Hoping to bridge this divide, albeit even slightly, is a group of Canisius students who journeyed to Nogales for a one-week immersion that exposed them to the realities of immigration. Though they acknowledge that migrants who cross into the U.S. without authorization break the law, the students also question whether U.S. law is breaking the migrants.

Students traversed a migrant trail along a remote portion of the Sonoran desert. The terrain is hostile and conditions extreme but undocumented immigrants are willing to risk the minimum two-day journey to gain entry into the U.S. Sadly, many do not survive and succumb to heat stroke, dehydration, exhaustion or injury from poisonous snakes and insects.

“Regardless of where you stand on the issue, the people who are trying to migrate to the U.S. are just that – people,” says Monica W. Wrobel ’17, a student leader in Nogales. “It’s easy to forget the human element when we’re so far removed.” 8

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“With KBI as our guide, we essentially walked the same path that migrants do, from their immigration into the U.S., to their apprehension and deportation,” explains student leader Alexandria M. Iwanenko ’17.

“While walking the route, KBI showed us a backpack filled with items that had been left behind by people and families,” recalls Mitchell W. Beiter ’20. “In it were clothes, a baby bottle and a Spanish-to-English dictionary. I couldn’t help but wonder what happened to those people or whether they survived. It just made everything so real.”


roadscholars

Those who do survive are often apprehended by authorities. Last year, the U.S. Border Patrol recorded nearly 409,000 arrests of migrants along the Southwestern border. Students spent an afternoon with the men and women tasked with enforcing immigration law, and engaged in “respectful dialogue,” says Sarah E. Signorino ’04, MS ’09, ’12, assistant director of campus ministry. “The Kino Border Initiative is very intentional about providing students with opportunities to ask questions with all parties directly affected by immigration,” she says. “With informed consciences, students are able to formulate their own opinions.” Iwanenko concurs that her time at U.S. Border Patrol helped her realize “the officers are not the enemy.” Rather, she says, they are responsible for enforcing what she views as “a flawed legal system.” One that culminates in a federal courtroom. It’s here that students witnessed the zero-tolerance, fast-track prosecutions of undocumented immigrants via Operation Streamline. “These men and women are brought into the courtroom, 70 at a time, for what’s really a dehumanizing ordeal,” Beiter says. “They haven’t been able to shower,” he explains, are “in the same dirty clothes” since their arrests and “shackled” at their ankles and waists.

A judge proceeds asking defendants how they plead, to which the general answer is guilty. They are then sentenced to a minimum of 30 days in a detention facility before being deported. “U.S. citizens who commit far worse offenses are treated more humanely than what we witnessed with Operation Streamline,” Wrobel says. “Many of these individuals have heartbreaking stories about why they tried to enter the U.S. but the judge never gets to hear them because the system is set up to try them en masse.” Operation Streamline is intended to deter attempts among migrants to enter the U.S. illegally. Still, their reasons for crossing outweigh the fear of repercussion. “Jobs, healthcare, education, violence, corruption and drugs are all very strong pull factors that make the U.S. appealing to migrants,” Iwanenko says. “But mostly people just want to be with their loved ones.” She explains how many migrants with whom students spoke had been separated from their spouses or children who were U.S. citizens. “Out of all the stories we heard, the separation of families was by far the strongest pull factor for migrants,” Iwanenko adds. (Continued on next page)


facultynotes roadscholars (cont.) Students heard such personal stories during their daily visits to El Comedor. Located on the Mexican side of Nogales, El Comedor is a sanctuary for the thousands of migrants deported from the U.S. They arrive tired, hungry and without money or clean clothing. Too frequently, they are alone, having been separated from husbands, wives and children. There to greet them upon their arrival is a team of volunteers – and in this instance, Canisius students – ready to provide a warm meal, first aid, phone calls to family members, clean clothes, personal hygiene items and friendship. “The real purpose of any immersion experience is to be in solidarity with those we are with and provide them with a sense of dignity,” Signorino explains. “So we listened to the migrants, heard their stories and prayed with them. We wanted them to know that they matter to us.”

IN MEMORIAM

Canisius College lost a beloved professor on October 14, with the passing of Peter Boehm, PhD. A faculty member in the department of Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures, Boehm will be remembered as a scholar and educator who cherished celebrating his native German heritage with students. The German program he directed produced several Fulbright scholars over the years. The teaching professorship Boehm shared with History Professor Larry E. Jones, PhD – “The Holocaust in History, Literature and Film” – broadened students’ perspectives beyond the traditional American viewpoint and culminated in a trip to concentration camps in Germany and Poland. In 2009, Boehm coordinated the college’s commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall by commissioning a 56-foot long, eight-foot high replica of the wall in the Quad. Boehm was 66 years old.

Perhaps the most vexing part of the students’ experience was how best to respond to the needs on the border. Some returned home with an eagerness to lobby lawmakers against enforcement methods that punish those already living and working in the U.S. Others urged their state representatives to consider legislation that provides a legal path to immigration for people without professional skills or money. Overwhelmingly, however, the Canisius students returned home committed to share with others the stories they heard and situations they experienced. Their goal is to promote truth over misconception, to replace stereotypes with realities and to protect the dignity of the human person, especially where it is most vulnerable. “These are shared principles that I think we all value as Catholics and Americans and that we hope will help bring people together,” Wrobel says.

The MAX Charity Challenge golf tournament scored a win for the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) at Canisius College. The 2017 contest raised $18,032 for the interdisciplinary and collaborative research center, which is dedicated to understanding autism spectrum disorder and enhancing the lives of those affected and their families. Laura and Troy Hillman organized the 2017 MAX Charity Challenge. The couple started the tournament in 2016 as a way “to give back to the Institute for helping their son, who participated in IAR programs and saw significant social communication gains and reduced autism symptoms.” The Hillmans are pictured above (far right) with IAR Co-directors Marcus L. Thomeer, PhD (center) and Christopher J. Lopata, PsyD (left).


Passing down the tradition of a Canisius education from one generation to the next

Family Tıes Every family has traditions. Some take cues from their religious or cultural upbringings. Others opt for homespun twists on common kindred rites. No matter, traditions are among the most meaningful practices that are unique to family. They provide a source of identity. Strengthen bonds. And with fortuity, traditions can endure from one generation to the next. Here at 2001 Main Street, the college is blessed to see the tradition of a Canisius education handed down, several times over, from alumni to their children and even grandchildren. We call them Legacy Griffs. They’re a proud and loyal crowd whose ancestries – in some instances – date back nearly as far as the college’s beginnings (see The Brady Brood, page 13). The total number of Legacy Griffs at Canisius is too many to count. Still, we wanted to take a look at some family trees rooted in a Canisius education and the reasons many choose to make the college part of their shared history. For insight, we turned to students, parents and grandparents. Like any legacy worth leaving, we learned their connections to the college are as much about the past as they are about the future. A few of those stories appear on the following pages. (Left) Simon P. Pratt ’20 is part of a third generation to inherit a Canisius education

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It’s All Relative Deciding where to go to college can be an exciting but angst-ridden undertaking for high school seniors. The pressure to find the perfect school – one that balances academic interests with costs and campus life – is perhaps among the most consequential decisions they’ll make in their young lives. Simon P. Pratt ’20 is thankful to have avoided much of that anxiety. Of all the schools he considered for his college education, Canisius was at the top of the list. “When I visited, it just felt most like home,” recalls Simon. For good reason. The pre-med major grew up with an acute awareness of the college as he is part of the third generation of Bartels to inherit a Canisius education. His parents, Maureen (Bartels) ’82 and Michael J. Pratt ’82, are graduates of the college. As is Simon’s brother, Colin D. ’07, and five of their uncles, two aunts, and six cousins (several of whom met and married their spouses at Canisius.) The Bartels family tradition at Canisius originated with Simon’s late grandfather, John D. Bartels ’52, MD. Dr. Bartels enrolled at Canisius on the G.I. Bill after he served two years in the U.S. Navy. His (biochemistry) degree, says wife Barbara K., “set him on the path to a successful career” as a board-certified OBGYN. Dr. Bartels appreciated the rigors of a Canisius education and valued the college's Catholic, Jesuit tradition, Barbara adds. So much so, Canisius was the only option for their children’s college education. “They all wanted to go away,” Barbara recalls. “But John said they didn’t really have a choice unless another college offered something Canisius didn’t.” Six of the Bartels’ seven children graduated from Canisius. Two earned business degrees. Four pursued medicine, “which is another Bartels’ family legacy,” says Maureen and one her son, Simon, plans to continue. “My husband and I tried not to influence Simon on where to go to college but we knew, having first-hand experience in the family, that Canisius’ biology and pre-med programs would prepare him well for medical school,” Maureen says. They also knew Canisius could offer Simon an engaging campus life. “Simon has such an outgoing personality. He likes to get involved.” The All-College Honors student is speaker of the Student Senate, serves on the Commuter Student Association and is a member of the Canisius Chorale. “He’s just thriving academically and socially,” Maureen adds. When Simon graduates in 2020, he’ll become the 20th member of the Bartels family to earn a Canisius degree. Though maybe not the last. Simon’s younger brother, William, is a sophomore at Canisius High School and if their family history is any indication, there’s a good chance the Bartels’ family tree will grow even greater at Canisius.

John D. Bartels ’52, MD

Edward Kelly Bartels ’76, MD (Nadine Warren ’76, MBA ’84) 12

James P. Bartels ’78, MD Brian D. Bartels ’80

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Maureen (Bartels) Pratt ’82 (Michael J. Pratt ’82)

Jonathan B. Bartels ’90 (Aileen E. Woodrich ’90)

Colette P. (Bartels) Slaman ’04, MBA ’06, JD

Christopher J. Bartels ’86, MD Christian E. Bartels ’06, CPA, MD


The Brady Brood Canisius is home to a grand collection of legacy families. The Lyons lineage, as in Lyons Hall, dates to 1911, with the freshman arrival of Edward J. The Koessler clan, as in the Koessler Athletic Center, dates to 1918, with the freshman arrival of J. Walter. And the family tree perhaps most deeply rooted is the Brady brood — please, not bunch — whose ancestry extends to the freshman arrival of Andrew J. Jr. in 1905.

Andrew J. Brady Sr.

Andrew J. Sr. was born in Ireland and found his way to Buffalo, where he had six sons. They attended Canisius, where the Brady name cycles four generations through his second son, John C. Brady Sr. 1912, HON ’49, MD. The succession runs through John C. Brady Jr. ’54; John C. Brady III ’86; and great-granddaughters, Siobhan Brady ’13 and Mikaela Brady ’15. John C. Sr., known as Jack, captained early Canisius basketball teams. (They weren’t called Griffins yet; that wouldn’t happen until 1933, when the name came John C. Brady Sr. 1912, HON ’49, MD courtesy of Jack’s brother, Charles A. Brady ’33, HON ’87, who would go on to teach English at Canisius for 42 years.) Jack was stationed in France in World War I and refereed an exhibition match starring French heavyweight Georges Carpentier, who’d later face Jack Dempsey in boxing’s first million-dollar gate. Jack was chief of surgery at Sisters Hospital and toastmaster of many of the college’s Block C athletic dinners; he kept a photo in his home office of the 1930 dinner featuring keynote speaker Knute Rockne, the Notre Dame football coach who would die in a plane crash three months later. Jack and Bob MacKinnon ’50, MS ’62, then the Griffs basketball coach, were among the first inductees to the Canisius Sports Hall of Fame in 1963; the college’s centennial history, written by Charles A., notes Jack was then “still trimly fit” in his 73rd year. Jack (basketball) and Charles (tennis) are one of two brother combinations in the Canisius Sports Hall of Fame, with Tom and Joe Niland, both basketball. (See page 14). (Left-right) Emily O. Bartels ’08, Colin D. Pratt ’07 and Simon P. Pratt ’20 are part of a Canisius family tradition that began with their late grandfather, John D. Bartels ’52, MD.

Colin D. Pratt ’07

Chantal B. Bartels ’09, MD (Conor R. Thomas ’10, PhD)

Ian J. Bartels ’13

Emily O. Bartels ’08 Jack A. Bartels ’09 Simon P. Pratt ’20 (Allison M. Dombek ’07, MBA ’10)

Granddaughter Margaret Leila Brady ’95 lives in the grand North Buffalo home where Jack and Leila raised their family; it’s a setting for several scenes in the 2017 movie “Marshall.” Jack Brady died in 1973 — styled “Buffalo’s Grand Old Man of Surgery” in his obituary — but his family name lives on at alma mater, which fondly looks forward to a fifth generation.

Charles A. Brady ’33, HON ’87

Andrew J. Brady Jr. 1909 John C. Brady 1912, HON ’49, MD Charles A. Brady ’33, HON ’87 Joseph D. Brady ’35 T. Francis Brady ’39 J. Clifford Brady ’40 Vincent D. Brady Sr. MS ’42 John C. Brady Jr. ’54 Thomas F. Brady ’63, PhD Kristin M. Brady ’70, PhD Kathleen M. (Brady) Wiles ’74, EdD Erik L. Brady ’76 Vincent D. Brady Jr. ’77 Kevin C. Brady ’77, MBA ’92 Mary (Brady) Webber ’79 Patrick J. (Brady) Wiles ’82 John C. Brady III ’86 Margaret Leila Brady ’95 Benjamin Brady Roberts MS ’04 Siobhan Brady ’13 Mikaela Brady ’15


Perhaps the most recognizable name in Canisius basketball history, the Niland family legacy lives on at Canisius. Pictured (l-r) Jake Niland ’20, Annie Niland ’18, Sarah Niland ’07, David Niland MS ’93, Mariah (Niland) Glass MS ’10, Eileen Niland MS ’96, Sara (Beilein) Capen MSEd ’99 and Kaitlyn Niland ’10

Blood & Basketball at Canisius Those who move in basketball circles often consider themselves family. The meaning is somewhat literal for the Nilands whose family legacy was born three generations ago at Canisius and continues today.

His brother, David F. Niland MS ’93, is head coach at Penn StateBehrend College. Their first cousin is John Beilein, the head coach at the University of Michigan who started his Division I coaching career at Canisius.

“I’m pretty sure one of my first outings as a baby was to a Canisius basketball game,” laughs digital media arts major Annie A. Niland ’18. Annie is the great niece of Joseph P. ’46 Sr. and Thomas J. Jr. ’47. The brothers are Sports Hall of Fame inductees and famous names in Canisius basketball history.

Coming from such a prominent pedigree gave James (“Jake”) Niland ’20 cause for concern when he began to consider colleges.

Joe and Tom were pursuing their Canisius degrees when World War II intervened. Both put their studies on hold to serve. Both returned to finish their educations at Canisius. And both went on to hardwood glory: Tom spent 26 years as Le Moyne College’s (first) basketball coach and took seven teams to the NCAA Division II Tournament. Joe fashioned a coaching career at Canisius that put the Golden Griffin basketball program on the national map, posting a 76-61 record in five seasons. Basketball remains in the Niland family blood, as does Canisius. Joe Niland Jr. is head coach at the University of Mobile (Alabama). 14

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“I thought I wanted to go someplace where no one knew the Niland name,” he says. In addition to Jake’s famous family members, his older sisters, Sarah ’07, Kaitlyn ’10 and Annie all came to Canisius. “I especially didn’t want to be known as ‘Annie’s little brother,’” he laughs. In the end, Canisius’ pre-engineering program and small class sizes won Jake over. He even concedes that it helped knowing Annie was “nearby if I needed a safety net.” Together, the siblings now represent the next generation of Nilands at Canisius. “It’s a little bit of pressure, I won’t lie. But we carry it with pride,” concludes Annie. “We get to contribute to something bigger than ourselves. All of these great people came before us and started a story that comes with my last name. Now we get to write our own chapters.”


Like Mother, Like Daughter When Marvel Ross-Jones ’73, MBA ’78, EdM, PhD, moved her daughter into the Canisius dorms, she “couldn’t believe how much the campus had changed in 20 years.” Canisius modernized its classrooms. The African American student population swelled. “And the residence hall floors were now co-ed,” she laughs. It was a “proud moment” when daughter April (Jones) Sanders ’98 chose to continue the family legacy of a Canisius education. Though it’s a legacy that almost never was. One of eight children, Marvel’s parents “couldn’t afford to set aside money for college.” She never considered a Canisius education, until the college introduced the Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship in 1968. Marvel applied and became an inaugural recipient. “The scholarship enabled me to become the first in my family to receive a four-year college education,” says Marvel, who earned an MBA from Canisius in addition to a BA in biochemistry. The campus director for Bryant & Stratton College – Downtown Buffalo also holds an EdM in educational administration and a PhD in educational leadership and policy. She is currently working on a second doctoral degree in global theology. “I received a tremendous education at Canisius, which inspired in me an appetite for lifelong learning,” Marvel says. Her enthusiasm for education – specifically a Canisius education – set an example for her youngest sister, Alison Ross-Hooker ’86, MA. “Without reservation,” Alison came to Canisius for her undergraduate degree in psychology. “My Canisius education helped open doors of opportunity that I had not previously dreamed possible” says Alison, a customer service manager in Mesquite, Marvel Ross-Jones ’73, MBA ’78, EdM, PhD TX and consultant on health and wellness initiatives for the University of North Alison C. (Ross) Hooker ’86, MA Texas, Health Sciences Program. April (Jones) Sanders ’98, MBA When it came time for April to apply to college, she notes, “the only place I ever wanted to go – the place I had to go – was Canisius.”

Joseph P. Niland Sr. ’46 Thomas J. Niland Jr. ’47 Sr. Frances Niland ’55 Matthew F. (Niland) O’Hanlon ’80 David F. Niland MS ’93 Eileen A. Niland MS ’96 Sara (Beilein) Capen MSEd ’99 Sarah L. Niland ’07 Kaitlyn E. Niland ’10 Mariah (Niland) Glass MS ’10 Annie A. Niland ’18 Jake Niland ’20

Timothy Sanders ’98 Timothy Sanders Jr. ’?? Zoe Sanders ’??

Next to her salvation, marriage and children, April says “Canisius was the most pivotal experience in my life.” The sales communications manager for Uniland Development Corp. earned a BA in political science and an MBA from Medaille. She will complete her doctoral dissertation in 2018. “The education I received at Canisius set me on a great trajectory professionally and instilled in me, much like my mother, this enthusiasm for education and lifelong learning.” April now works to instill the same in her two children, Timothy and Zoe. She and husband, Timothy A. Sanders ’98, who met freshman year, frequently bring the twins to campus. They visit the library, participate in summer camps and assist with CrossNation, a non-denominational campus-wide ministry established by April and Tim to give inspiration to college students and working families in the community. “They’re still young (just 13) but already our kids talk about how they want to come to Canisius for college,” Sanders says. “Ultimately, it will be their decision but we’ll be so proud if they choose to continue the family legacy at alma mater.” April (Jones) Sanders ’98 (seated) followed in the footsteps of her mother, Marvel Ross-Jones (standing) at Canisius, where she also met her husband, Timothy Sanders ’98.


alumninews

Homecoming Weekend 2017 Homecoming Weekend 2017 has passed but the memories remain among the crowds of alumni, family and friends who attended. The annual Canisius event hosted 15 class and affinity group reunions, and the ever-popular Favorite Professor Reception and Java with the Jesuits. The long-held tradition also added a few new twists, including food and drinks provided by alumni-owned businesses, an alumni marriage vow renewal and a science research symposium.

AFFINITY REUNIONS Afro-American Society

Finance

ROTC

Basketball (men’s & women’s)

Glee Club

Special Education

Biology

Griff Couples

U.S.A.

Little Theatre


alumninews

ALUMNI-OWNED FOOD & DRINK Lloyd Taco

21 Brix Wine

Frank’s Gourmet Hot Dogs

Resurgence Brewery Company

Ru’s Pierogi

Bootleg Bucha

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alumninews

You’re Invited

Snowbirds: Save the Dates If you plan to escape the Buffalo winter with a stay in the Sunshine State, then mark the following dates on your calendar when Canisius will host alumni receptions: VENICE, MARCH 9, 6:00 p.m. PLANTATION GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB TAMPA/ST. PETE, MARCH 11 NAPLES, MARCH 13, 6:00 p.m. NAPLES SAILING & YACHT CLUB

Join President Hurley in Central America Canisius alumni are invited to join President John J. Hurley and his wife, Maureen, on an exploration of faith, tradition and modernization in Central America, June 3 –13, 2018. The trip includes visits to Guatemalan and Salvadoran civil war memorial sites where Catholic bishops, priests and peasants were martyred, Catholic cathedrals, Pentecostal mega churches and congregations engaged in various kinds of social service. Organized by the college's Institute for Global Engagement (IGE), the trip is part of the “Road Less Traveled” life-long learning pilgrimage program. To learn more, contact IGE Director Timothy H. Wadkins, PhD, at wadkins@canisius.edu or visit canisius.edu/IGSOR.

Alumni Board Adds Seven The Alumni Association Board of Directors added seven new members to the roster this fall. The Board collaborates with the Office of Alumni Engagement to involve alumni with alma mater in meaningful ways. Members serve three-year terms. The new members joining the Alumni Association Board of Directors are:

Kevin M. Downey ’05, MBA ’07

Anthony J. Limina ’08, MBA ’14

Aidan G. McCarthy MBA ’09

Terrell J. Robinson ’11

Christi L. Roorda ’07, MBA ’13

Kimberly J. Ruppel ’06

Commercial Sales, G&G Fitness

Account Manager, National Fuel Gas

Sr. Vice President, Food Safety, Quality & Regulatory Affairs, Rich Products Corp.

Middle Office Analyst, Citi

Global Procurement Manager, Praxair Inc.

Associate Director, Development, The Park School

Call for Nominations

The Canisius College Alumni Association Board of Directors is seeking nominations for the following awards, commendations and at-large positions:

• Distinguished Alumni Awards • Distinguished Faculty Award • Distinguished Senior Awards

Visit canisius.edu/alumni/awards for nomination criteria, deadlines or to nominate someone. 18

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE FALL 2017

Mark J. Tortelli ’10 Procurement Payroll & Data Manager, Lactalis American Group

• LaSalle Medal • Alumni Association Board of Directors


alumnispotlight Damon J. Young’s appreciation for the written word began in middle school when he would read the legal pads his father filled with creative narratives and figurative prose. Writing was a pastime for Young’s father and his literary influence became the trajectory for Damon, who today is an award-winning writer. “When I read what dad wrote, I thought ‘There’s no limit to how you can express yourself,’” Young says. The English major is co-founder and senior editor of VerySmartBrothas (VSB), a nationally recognized daily digital magazine that uses commentary, essay and the occasional obscenity to probe black experiences in pop culture and current events. VSB originated in the blogosphere around 2008, with Young and his partner, Panama Jackson, coupling irreverence with sharp wit to write about marginalized groups. It wasn’t long before they realized they were onto something. “We started seeing readers respond to the conversation and hear people talking about us,” says Young, who hails from the North Side of Pittsburgh. The former Penn Hills High School basketball star came to Canisius with dreams of playing in the NBA. He attended on a scholarship but soon realized the NBA dream was unrealistic so he concentrated on his flair for writing. After graduation and a brief stint teaching high school English, Young decided to further develop a personal blog that he launched in 2003. Over the next five years, it evolved into VSB and a sizeable online community of readers. Comprised primarily of young, collegeeducated African Americans, VSB’s audience retreats to the site for a safe space to discuss growing tensions in America. “We have to stand out from the crowd,” Young explains. “VSB is competing with larger outlets such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, The New Yorker and other digital publications.”

Very Smart Brotha Damon J. Young ’02 probes black experiences in pop culture as co-founder of VSB Story: Kristin E. Etu ’91 Photo: Sarah Huny Young

Though it’s not yet hit mainstream magazine status, VSB and its co-founder are gaining national traction. Ebony.com brought on Young as a contributing editor. GQ magazine invited him to write a regular column. Harper-Collins signed Young to a two-book deal. The first, a collection of essays, will come out in fall 2018. Most recently, Univision acquired VSB bringing with it a full staff of writers. “Before the acquisition, our biggest month was 2.8 million unique visitors to the blog. We had 2.8 million in the last two weeks,” Young exclaims. The latest readership response to VSB “is a little overwhelming but a good problem to have,” Young says. But of all the followers, there is only one whom Young is most proud to have reading his work. “My dad reads VSB religiously and shares everything I do on his Facebook page,” he says, “even the more colorful stuff that I might not want my aunts and uncles to see!”

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alumnispotlight

Community Building As executive director of Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin Martin House, Mary Roberts ’77 oversees one of Buffalo’s most treasured cultural attractions. Story: Martin Haumesser

Mary F. (Jenkins) Roberts ’77 studied accounting at Canisius College so it seems fitting that, today, she oversees one of Buffalo’s greatest assets. As executive director of Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin Martin House, Roberts manages the comprehensive restoration of the complex, an architectural masterpiece recognized around the world. Wright designed the residential estate in the early 1900s for Darwin Martin, a wealthy industrialist in Buffalo. Scholars consider the North Buffalo house to be one of the architect’s greatest achievements. The restored home holds National Landmark status and stands out among revitalization efforts taking place across the city. “We like to say the Martin House is two stories high but a thousand stories deep because of the many people coming together to restore Wright’s vision,” Roberts explains. Roberts became involved at the Darwin Martin House in 1996 at the encouragement of her husband, Tom, who suggested that they volunteer. Two years later, the organization hired Roberts as director of finance, just as it was about to undertake a restoration of the Jewett Parkway complex. Roberts was named executive director of the Martin House Restoration Corp. in 2006. Under her leadership, the Martin House has raised approximately $50 million for the restoration and Roberts has overseen more than six major phases of renovation. She works with a 30-member board of directors, an experienced staff and nearly 400 active volunteers. “The complex has an amazing ability to bring people together – dedicated board members, talented staff and volunteers, leading architects and consultants, and of course, our visitors,” she says. Roberts is on the board of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership; chair-elect of Visit Buffalo Niagara, the region’s tourism agency; and treasurer of the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, a Chicago-based national organization.

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alumninotes 1950s ’50 BA Robert J. Kresse, of counsel for Barclay Damon LLP, presented “The Art of Investing – Locally” during the 2017 Imagine Greater Buffalo lecture series. Kresse also received the 13th C-SAAHN (Center for the Study of Art, Architecture, History & Nature) Imagine Greater Buffalo Recognition Award. ’54 BA Thomas J. Caulfield, EdD, professor emeritus of counselor education at Canisius College, authored his second book, Naval Reserve Officer. The book documents Caulfield’s career in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

1960s ’67 BS, MBA ’78 Frank L. Eberl, former owner of Eberl Iron Works and current member of the company’s Board of Advisors, celebrated his 50-year anniversary with the company in June 2017.

1970s ’70 BS Dale F. Kuntz, PhD, retired as professor of economics at Bentley University in Waltham, MA, after 41 years. He is now professor emeritus. ’71 BA Thomas G. Smith, a retired partner for Harter Secrest & Emery LLP in Rochester, received the Monroe County Bar Association Foundation’s 2017 Humanitarian Award. The award recognizes Smith’s service to the community.

’71 BA Stasia T. (Zoladz) Vogel, attorney at law, received the prestigious Beacon Travel & Tourism Volunteer of the Year Award, presented by Visit Buffalo Niagara. The award recognizes Vogel’s historic preservation efforts on behalf of the Buffalo Lighthouse Association.

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’76 BS Joseph A. Persichini Jr. is the new executive director of the National Police Athletic League Inc. in Jupiter, FL. He was executive director for the Washington, D.C. Police Foundation. ’77 BA Gregory P. Rabb, professor of political science at Jamestown Community College, participated in a two-week study tour of Palestine through a grant from the PalestinianAmerican Research Center. WRFA-FM Radio interviewed Rabb about his experience in June 2017. ’79 BS James S. Smyczynski, general manager for National Fuel Gas Company, is serving a three-year term on the finance council of St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church.

1980s ’80 MBA Neil C. Woodworth became a certified volunteer for the State of Florida Guardian ad Litem program, which advocates for the best interest of the state’s abused, abandoned and neglected children.

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David M. Spiller ’79 - BA, Communication Studies Career Highlight: Dave Spiller recently released “Perimeter Skill Drills to Enhance Shooting and Offensive Quickness Reaction,” a basketball training DVD that focuses on shot consistency. Career Notes: The former assistant coach for Ohio State University basketball is an assistant coach for the Wellington High School Jaguars, in Columbus, OH, which was a Division IV finalist this past season.

’81 BA Melinda Burgwardt Gibson, was inducted into the Women’s Transportation Hall of Fame, posthumously. She was recognized for her leadership of New York State Wheelmen, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving bicycle history. ’81 MS James J. Trampert, a retired director of physical education, health and athletics for Orchard Park Central Schools, was inducted into the third class of the New York State Athletic Administrators’ (NYSAA) Hall of Fame, which recognizes deserving interstate athletic administrators. ’82 BS, MBA ’97 William F. Dentinger is a senior director for Home Point Financial Corporation in Clearwater, FL. He was a TPO (Third Party Oversight) risk manager at Stonegate Mortgage.

Thomas A. Weber Jr. ’67 - BA, History Career Highlight: Tom Weber received the Humanitarian Service Award from the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI. The award is presented annually to a member who goes above and beyond the call of civic duty. Career Notes: Weber served 28 years as a special agent with the FBI. After retiring from the bureau, he began volunteering with Stand Down South Jersey, a non-profit that serves the homeless and at-risk veterans.

’82 BS Thomas C. Lillis, senior vice president and client manager for Bank of America, received the 2017 Service to Mankind Award from the Western and Central New York Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for his 20-plus years of leadership and support. ’82 BA Cindy A. (Carlisle) Eller, vice president of development for Roswell Park Cancer Institute, received a 2017 Women of Influence Award from Buffalo Business First, in the non-profit leadership category. The award honors women who display high energy and skills in leadership roles at non-profit institutions or organizations.

’84 BA Ronald P. Geisler is the new sales director of Porex Technologies - European Division, based in Aachen, Germany. He was a strategic account manager for 3M Deutschland GmbH in Neuss, Germany. ’85 BA Thomas J. Colson is a registered patent attorney and of counsel for Simpson & Simpson PLLC. He is also president and chief executive officer of Executive IP. ’87 MS Margaret (Cain) McCarthy, PhD, vice president for academic affairs at Canisius College, received a 2017 Women of Influence Award from Buffalo Business First, in the inspiration category. The award honors women leaders who, through their words, actions and attitude, inspire those who work with and around them. ’88 BS, MBA ’90 Anthony A. Cassiol, senior vice president of commercial banking for CapStar Bank in Nashville, TN, was selected as a 2017 Nashville Power Leader in Finance by the Nashville Business Journal. ’88 BS John P. Kane was promoted from vice president of quality and care management to senior vice president of quality and patient safety for Catholic Health Systems.

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’96 MBA Penny S. (Hokanson) Madej is vice president and senior credit officer at Evans Bank. She was first vice president and senior manager of credit risk review for First Niagara Bank.

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’97 BS, MSED ’02 Edmund C. Kosiorek, superintendent of the Hilton Central School District, earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Rochester’s Warner School of Education. ’98 BS, MBA ’04 Darcey L. (Blair) Kemp was promoted from director of intercultural leadership and first-year programs to assistant vice president of student success and engagement for the College of Saint Rose in Albany. She also joined the 2017-18 advisory board for the National Society for Leadership and Success. ’98 BS/MBA Tiffany S. Wiggins is a new accounting manager for the New York Racing Association Inc. She was an accountant for Advance Publications Inc.

Christine M. (Cala) Tricoli ’85, MBA ’93 BA, Psychology Career Highlight: Christine Tricoli received the 2017 Top Talent Executive Award from the Senior Executive Board of the Best Practice Institute. The award recognized Tricoli for her leadership and experience in the human resources field. Career Notes: Tricoli is senior vice president and head of talent services for CIT Group in New York City.

1990s ’90 BS Joseph A. Heim, a partner with Dopkins & Company LLP, was named treasurer for the Turnaround Management Association Board of Directors for the Upstate New York Chapter. ’90 MBA Christopher C. Kempton, director of the Group Benefits Division for Walsh Duffield Companies Inc., recently partnered with Strategic Retirement Partners to bring national retirement consulting services to Western New York. ’91 BA Marya J. Propis, senior vice president and head of broker engagement for AIG in New York, NY, received the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation’s 2017 Inclusion Champion Award for working to advance diversity in the field. ’92 BA Michael J. Pietkiewicz was promoted from executive vice president of operations to senior vice president of institutional advancement and efficiency at Erie Community College. ’92 BS Nora Eberl Plizga, co-owner and chief financial officer for Eberl Iron Works, received the Women in Manufacturing Award from Buffalo Business First in the annual Manufacturing Awards publication.

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’92 BA Kevin D. Szczepanski joined Barclay Damon LLP as a new partner. He was a partner with Hodgson Russ LLP.

’99 BA Maria C. (Wichlac) Grove, former president of the Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance, earned a master’s in diplomacy from Norwich University in Northfield, VT. ’99 BS Justin E. Grzyb was promoted from senior auditor to assistant regional inspector general for audit at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

2000s ’00 BS Jason J. Evchich, vice president of the Dennis Evchich Agency, raised more than $30,000 for Mason’s Mission Foundation, which was used to build a wheelchair-accessible playground for special needs children in Pendleton. ’01 BS Nicholas Fiume became director of the Assurance Services Group at Dopkins & Company LLP. He was a senior manager with Deloitte. ’01 BA Michelle L. Patterson was promoted from advancement services manager to director of advancement services for Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School. ’01 BS, MBA ’02 Jeffrey J. Watorek was promoted from director of financial planning and analysis to vice president, treasurer and secretary for Gibraltar Industries. ’02 BA, MBA ’05, MS ’07 Christopher T. McGinley, EdD, director of mathematics for the Williamsville Central School District, received the 2017 Leadership and Support Award from the School Administrators Association of New York State. The award recognized McGinley for his outstanding leadership, service and research in the field of education.

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’93 BA William J. Ostrander, known as radio personality “Buddy Shula,” is the new owner and president of WECK-1230 AM and 102.9 FM radio stations. He was a regional marketing manager for Entercom Radio. ’93 MBA Michael J. Prendergast, a vice president for M&T Bank, joined the Insyte Consulting Board of Directors. ’94 BA Thomas J. Tobin, PhD, joined State College, PA, as a new faculty developer and professional consultant. He was coordinator of learning technologies for the Center for Teaching and Learning at Northeastern Illinois University. Tobin also published a comic book. Titled The Copyright Ninja, it teaches higher education faculty and staff about copyright, fair use, licensing and permissions. ’95 BA Michael James Clemenko became a project manager for Booz Allen Hamilton in Washington, D.C. He was a web project manager for Aquilent. ’96 BA Kevin J. Cross, managing partner at Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, joined the Olmsted Center for Sight Board of Directors as vice chair.

Anthony J. Bellia Jr. ’91 - BA, Political Science, Business Economics Career Highlight: Anthony Bellia co-authored The Law of Nations and the United States Constitution with Bradford R. Clark. The book provides a practical framework for evaluating the status of international laws in U.S. courts. Career Notes: Bellia is the O’Toole Professor of Constitutional Law and a Concurrent Professor of Political Science at the University of Notre Dame. This is Bellia’s second book. His first, Federalism, considers federalism questions across subject areas.


alumninotes ’03 BS, MBAACC ’04 Myles M. Abbott, a senior manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers, is serving a two-year term as a member of the Cleveland Leadership Center Leadership Council.

’06 BS Sherrie Riles-Martin, a compliance teacher at Lane School in Houston, TX, received the district’s 2017 Teacher of the Year Award. The award honors her hard work and dedication in serving students with disabilities.

’08 MBA Bobbi J. (Blackburn) Sedor is director of enterprise risk management for BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York. She was first vice president of enterprise risk management for First Niagara Bank.

’03 BA Maria C. (Venditti) Burch is vice president of customer success for Teamworks in Durham, NC. She was senior manager of client success for Netsertive in Morrisville, NC.

’06 BA, MBA ’12 Brian M. Sas is the new commercial manager at Bak USA. He was manager of Caribbean and U.S. exporters for Rich Products Corp.

’08 BS, MBA ’09 Sara E. Shirley, PhD, is an assistant professor of finance for the Jennings A. Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, TN. She was an assistant professor of finance for Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI.

’03 BA, MBA ’04 Thomas J. Marinello is a senior director of strategic account management for the Lash Group, part of AmerisourceBergen in Charlotte, NC. He was senior director of customer engagement and commercial operations for Merz Pharmaceuticals in Raleigh, NC. ’04 BA Anthony P. Maggiotto Jr. is director of events for Old Falls Street, USA. He was interim director of the Elmwood Village Association and continues to serve as partner at MyBuffaloWeb Marketing Inc. Maggiotto is also owner of CityLove Clothing Co. ’04 BS, MBA ’05 Joseph M. Ondesko is the new chief financial officer for Bank of Akron. He was director of treasury for KeyBank. ’06 MSED Julie Gajewski was named principal of St. Gregory the Great School in Williamsville. She was the assistant principal for K-5 in the Hamburg Central School District. ’06 MS Jill M. Kelly was appointed vice president of human resources for Delaware North Sportservice. She was vice president of human resources for API Heat Transfer Inc. ’06 BS Daniel S. Paolini, chief executive officer for Nexxus Point, was chair of the Executive Leadership and Fundraising Committee for the 19th Annual “Light the Night” Walk, which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

S AY

’07 BS Megan L. (Koeppel) Kruse, MD, is a new associate oncologist for the Cleveland Clinic and associate professor of medicine at the Cleveland Clinic’s Lerner College of Medicine. ’07 BA Sarah L. Niland, vice president of credit risk and manager of risk controls for Citigroup, joined the Board of Directors for Save the Michaels of the World. The non-profit organization works to bring attention and awareness to the devastating effects of opioid medications.

’08 BS Jeffrey R. Stark, PhD, is an assistant professor of finance for the Jennings A. Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, TN. He was an assistant professor of finance for Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, MA. ’09 BA Ricky P. Luthra is an associate attorney with Rupp Baase Pfalzgraf Cunningham LLC. He was in-house counsel for Seneca Promotions Inc.

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’08 BA Rev. Kevin A. Fields, a seminarian at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD, was ordained to the transitional diaconate for the Archdiocese of Washington. He was assigned as transitional deacon at Saint Elizabeth Catholic Church in Rockville, MD. ’08 MSED Jessica Matthews, a health and wellness educator and author, was named the IDEA World Fitness Instructor of the Year for 2017. The award recognizes Matthews’ talents as an instructor and her leadership in the fitness industry. ’08 MBA Nora McGuire, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Independent Health, was appointed to the Merchants Mutual Insurance Company Board of Directors. ’08 MSED Shannon M. Ochal joined Gateway Longview as director of its therapeutic preschool. She was an educator for Holland Central Schools.

"CHEESE"

Ross A. Pfaff III ’05 - BS, Accounting, Accounting Information Systems Career Highlight: Ross Pfaff, CPA, became the new head of finance for Hercules Fluid Power Group’s (HFPG) industrial OEM (original equipment manufacturer) business. The company is located in Clearwater, FL. Career Notes: Pfaff’s promotion at HFPG is the latest in a number of increasingly challenging roles he’s held with the company. Since 2006, he’s served as controller at Hercules U.S. and most recently was the reporting and analysis manager for HFPG. He holds an MBA from the University of South Florida.

Canisius Magazine is now accepting photos for the Alumni Notes section. If you would like to submit a picture to coincide with your alumni note, baby Griff or wedding announcement, simply email it to alumnote@canisius.edu. Due to space constraints we may not be able to publish all photos submitted.

Canisius College takes pride in its alumni, and joyfully shares the news of their lives and achievements. Supportive of our Catholic Church’s teachings, publication of announcements provided to us by our alumni does not necessarily imply an endorsement by Canisius College.


2010s ’10 BA Emily A. (Caruana) Ayers joined Independent Health as a deputy counsel. She was an associate attorney with Harter Secrest & Emery LLP.

’11 MBA Adam M. Desmond is the Buffalo region market leader for Tompkins Bank of Castile. He was vice president of middle market lending for Key Bank Corp.

’10 BA Emma L. Fabian, director of substance user health policy for Evergreen Health, was named to Buffalo Business First “30 Under 30” list.

’11 BA Connor M. Lewis, a doctoral candidate in history at the University of Missouri, became an associate UniServ representative for the Pennsylvania State Education Association in State College, PA.

’10 BS, MBAACC ’11 Anthony J. Gullo was promoted from senior consultant for real estate solutions to director in the real estate and infrastructure practice at FTI Consulting Inc.

’11 MBA Lauren V. Lewis is a new partner with StaffBuffalo, a full-service professional staffing firm. She was a hospital sales representative for Daiichi Sankyo Inc.

’10 BS Kristin E. (Schalk) Janes is the head softball coach for Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI. She was head softball coach at Fort Scott Community College in Fort Scott, KS.

’12 BS Gina M. Buscaglia was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant for Arcara Zucarelli Lenda & Associates CPAs PC.

’10 BS Jonathan C. Tretter, manager for Freed Maxick CPAs PC, was named to Buffalo Business First “30 Under 30” list. ’11 BS Jonathon M. Casey, vice president of Vermed & Graphic Controls, was named to Buffalo Business First “30 Under 30” list. ’11 BA Myrca Ceran joined the General Electric Co. in Atlanta, GA as a learning and development coordinator. She was a training coordinator for GP Strategies Corp. in Danbury, CT.

’12 BS Lauren A. Daly joined Crowley Webb as a user experience (UX) designer. She was a digital art director and developer for FARM Buffalo. ’12 BA Danielle M. DelMonte launched Danielle Marie Communications, a public relations and marketing firm on Grand Island that integrates traditional and digital communication strategies. She is also the owner and founder of PrepStart Consulting LLC, which provides college admissions counseling and workforce development services to educational institutions and organizations.

CL ASS ACT

Anthony L. Bryant Jr. and Andrea C. Hampton ’06

’12 BS Patrick T. Saladyga is a new retirement sales consultant for Lawley Insurance. He was a financial services representative for Foresters Financial Services. ’13 MBA Timothy J. Huebsch was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant for Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP. ’13 MBA Taylor R. Gahagen, director of brand strategy and development for Pegula Sports and Entertainment, was named to Buffalo Business First “30 Under 30” list. ’13 BA Ashley C. Durham became the new head coach for women’s basketball at Cumberland County College in Vineland, NJ. She was the team’s assistant coach in the 2015-16 season. ’13 BS Paul L. Klopfer was promoted from sales manager to sales training manager for Main Street Hub in New York, NY.

Gabrielle K. Walter ’15 - BA, Communication Studies

’14 BS William J. Baron is one of 12 players named to the official USA Basketball roster for the 2017 FIBA men’s AmericCup. He is also a point guard for Eskişehir Basket, a team in the Turkish Basketball Super League. Baron previously played for UCAM Murcia in Spain.

Career Highlight: Gabrielle Walter won the Miss New York State Pageant, held in May 2017 on Staten Island and competed in the Miss America Pageant on September 10, 2017, in Atlantic City, NJ.

’14 BA Jena M. Abati, a professional vocalist and owner of the Music Academy of Western New York, received the Best New Business Award from the Lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce.

Career Notes: Walter is the founder of DreamUp America, an education-based initiative that helps children determine and plot their future. She is currently attending the University at Buffalo School of Law.

’14 MSED Gregory Adrian was named director of hockey operations for the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, MN. He was director of hockey operations for the University of Vermont in Burlington, VT.

’14 MS Katelyn Letizia is the new registrar for Hilbert College. She was a registration advisor for Daemen College. ’14 MBA Vilona C. Trachtenberg, a bakery fulfillment planner for Rich Products Corp., was named to Buffalo Business First “30 Under 30” list. ’15 BS Nicholas M. Eadie is a registered patent agent for Simpson & Simpson PLLC. ’15 BS, MBA ’16 Emilie Wuerch is a new staff accountant for Lumsden McCormick LLP. ’16 BS, MBA ’17 Alexander C. Frey is a new staff accountant for Thomas Howell Ferguson P.A. CPAs in Tampa, FL. He was an accountant for University Pediatric Dentistry. ’16 MSED Erin G. Neppel was named assistant coach for rowing at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA. She was interim head coach for rowing at Canisius College. ’17 BA Michael J. Berg is a new sales coordinator for C.H. Robinson in Eden Prairie, MN. ’17 MS Makayla A. Santiago is a new development associate for the Mark Morris Dance Group in Brooklyn. She was a former guest relations representative for Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House.


alumninotes

Weddings F. Ryan Asis ’09, MS ’12 and Alexandra C. Leberer ’10 *April 29, 2017

Melanie G. Janiszewski ’06 and Craig Mahoney *April 1, 2017

Matthew L. Miller MS ’12 and Sarah MacCarthy *March 25, 2017

Amy Marie Plowe ’02 and Jason Suss April 18, 2017

Kelsey M. Cullen ’11 and Vladimir I. Korobov *June 24, 2017

Marisa M. Kossakowski ’03 and Matthew A. Penrose September 24, 2016

Andrew D. Minkel ’08, MBA ’10 and Lindsay Heron June 3, 2017

George D. Todino ’11, MSED ’13 and Cristina Burruano July 8, 2017

Paul D. Flach ’79 and Daphne N. Hoge May 11, 2017

Amanda L. Kwaczala MBA ’08 and Joshwin A. Meggesto August 10, 2017

Jessica L. Nowak ’10 and Christopher Drzewiecki *May 27, 2017

Megan E. Uplinger ’06, MS ’11 and Ijaz A. Bhatti *May 12, 2017

Christopher M. Heim ’03 and Christina Barone *June 30, 2017

Sarah M. Mastandrea ’08, MS ’16 and Dale Schuppenhauer May 19, 2017

Kevin F. O'Donnell ’09 and Elexa M. Kopty *June 10, 2017

Rachel L. Jones ’09 and Josh Wilmore May 21, 2017 * Married in Christ the King Chapel

babygriffs THIS ISSUE'S FEATURED BABY GRIFF

Evelyn Amelia

born February 11, 2017 to Allyson R. (Kopera) Schumacher ’10 and Colin Schumacher

D ana M. (Tintner) Bennett ’06, MBA ’08 and Justin S. Bennett ’06, a son, Samuel, born March 14, 2017

L esa R. (Celeste) Offermann ’07 and Daniel Offermann, a daughter, Madelyn, born April 24, 2017

L isa (Maly) Bialek ’01, MBA ’02 and Jonathan S. Bialek ’01, a son, Cameron Eli, born February 11, 2017

J ennifer M. (Klyczek) Parker ’01 and Bryan Parker, a daughter, Sylvia Ray, born June 5, 2017

K atie L. (Rampino) Briggs ’07 and Matthew Briggs, a son, Jack Stephen, born March 4, 2017

D anielle V. (Esposito) Pastor ’06 and Robert Pastor, a daughter, Genevieve Teresa, born June 22, 2017

H eather A. (Whalen) Castiglia ’14 and Frank C. Castiglia, a son, Michael Robert, born May 31, 2017

J ennifer V. Reddinger ’06 and Scott T. Reddinger MS ’06, a daughter, Gianna Louise, born May 31, 2017

M onica B. Chojnacki ’04, MBA ’11 and Philip M. Leszak ’10, MBA ’11, a son, Alexander Philip, born August 10, 2016

J oy E. (Giolando) Reese ’02 and Scott H. Reese, a daughter, Ava Josalyn, born November 7, 2016

L indsay C. (Springer) Jakubowski ’06 and James Jakubowski, a daughter, Ainsley Catherine, born December 31, 2016

M atthew J. Shaler ’09 and LeAnne Shaler, a son, Maxwell Darwin, born April 3, 2017

S idney Louis ’03 and Caroline Louis, a son, Jamison Alexander, born March 29, 2017

E velyn R. Vento ’00, MD and Sean D. McManus ’99, a son, Griffin Matthew, born June 26, 2017

FALL 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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IN MEMORIAM REV. VINCENT M. COOKE HON ’10, SJ

REV. JOHN P. BUCKI, SJ

Canisius College lost one of its most distinguished leaders on June 22, 2017, when Rev. Vincent M. Cooke HON ’10, SJ, passed away. He was 81. Father Cooke was the 23rd president of Canisius. He served 17 years in the position, (1993-2010), during which time he executed a vision that resulted in the progress, prosperity and growth of the college. Through Father Cooke’s strategic pursuit of quality, he moved Canisius into the top ranks of regional comprehensive universities, enhanced academics, improved campus facilities and transformed Canisius from a mostly local, commuter college to a regional, residential institution. “Father Cooke set an incredible standard, not only for quality and excellence but in his personal example of integrity, humility and service to God,” said Canisius President John J. Hurley during an August 12 memorial Mass on campus. Following his retirement from Canisius in 2010, Father Cooke became assistant to the provincial for higher education for the New York Province of the Society of Jesus. He later added the role of assistant for strategic planning for the Maryland, New England and New York provinces. Donations can be made in memory of Father Cooke, Father Bucki or Jerry Castiglia by contacting Ginny Dadaian, director of stewardship, at 716.888.8217.

IN MEMORIAM Theodore R. Fink ’42 March 20, 2017

Erwin F. Hetzelt Jr. ’50 February 15, 2017

Charles C. Szczepanski ’51 May 28, 2017

Gloria (Rogers) Halligan MSEd ’57 August 18, 2017

Samuel J. Barone ’43 June 20, 2017

Donald E. Ketterer ’50 May 2, 2017

Mary E. Dougherty MSEd ’52 February 19, 2017

Robert R. Mesel ’57 June 4, 2017

Donald C. Nuwer ’43, MD July 27, 2017

Theodore J. Maier Sr. ’50 July 26, 2017

Michael G. McGuire ’52 July 7, 2017

Jeremiah A. Brinkworth ’58 July 8, 2017

Henry P. Heubusch ’45, MS ’48, HON ’92, July 11, 2017

John F. Nelligan ’50 February 21, 2017

William J. Barrett ’53 April 29, 2017

Patrick J. Cunningham ’59 March 24, 2017

Helen Marie J. Flynn MSEd ’47 April 4, 2017

Frank E. O’Connor ’50 May 13, 2017

Joseph J. Bevilacqua ’53, PhD February 18, 2017

Michael J. DeFranks ’59 October 23, 2016

Richard N. Blewett ’48 March 12, 2017

John B. Walsh ’50 February 5, 2017

Sr. Mary Angeline Bierut ’53, MSEd ’74 August 8, 2017

Mary M. Horrigan ’59 August 14, 2017

Joseph I. Marino Sr. ’48 August 3, 2017

Salvatore J. Giovino ’51 August 16, 2017

William H. Gorman Jr. ’53 July 11, 2017

Vincent G. Massaro ’59, PhD November 6, 2016

John A. Shepherd ’48 June 18, 2017

Arthur F. Higgins ’51 June 29, 2017

Ernest F. Sandor ’53, MSEd ’67 March 10, 2017

Gerald A. Munro ’59 April 24, 2017

Robert A. Baumler ’49, MD March 7, 2017

Daniel J. Kay ’51 August 8, 2017

Daniel E. Connell ’55 April 26, 2017

Robert J. Raczynski ’59 May 7, 2017

Andrew Diakun ’49 June 11, 2017

Bernard G. Kieffer MBA ’51 April 4, 2017

Andrew J. Hammerl ’55 July 23, 2017

Peter X. Bellanti ’60 March 4, 2017

Leo T. Crowley Jr. ’50 February 14, 2017

Frank W. Parlato ’51 June 10, 2017

George G. Malek ’55 March 17, 2017

William M. Quigley ’61 November 5, 2016

Sr. Mary Christina Dineen ’50, MA ’57 March 20, 2017

Carlo M. Perfetto ’51 June 18, 2017

Joel V. Volker ’55 August 7, 2017

Joseph E. Evans ’62 August 14, 2017

Robert N. Floss ’50 April 27, 2017

Anthony C. Pizzolanti ’51 May 21, 2017

Norman E. Verbanic ’56 July 2, 2017

Crane C. McDonald ’62, MBA ’72 August 10, 2017


JOSEPH “JERRY” CASTIGLIA ’55, HON ’94 It was with a heavy heart that Canisius announced the passing of Rev. John P. Bucki, SJ, on September 2. He died at the age of 67.

Canisius said goodbye to a loyal and longtime friend on September 19 with the passing of Joseph “Jerry” Castiglia ’55, HON ’94. He was 83.

Father Bucki spent 11 years as the beloved director of campus ministry at Canisius. He was a mainstay at campus Masses, commencements and events, and had the extraordinary ability to convince all people about the importance of the pursuit of magis. He always had a camera with him, which he used to capture students as they explored their faith. Father Bucki was an early adopter of social media and filled his Facebook page with countless photos.

The former Pratt & Lambert CEO served nearly two decades on the Canisius College Board of Trustees, during which time he led the transition from the 27-year presidency of Rev. James M. Demske ’47, SJ, to that of Rev. Vincent M. Cooke, SJ and to the current presidency of John J. Hurley. In 1997, Castiglia stepped forward to become national chair of the Imagine Canisius capital campaign. His leadership set the tone for the historic undertaking, which raised a record $39 million. A few years prior to the campaign, Castiglia established the Joseph J. Castiglia ’55 Family Scholarship Fund, which provides student scholarships in accounting and other undergraduate programs.

Father Bucki entered the Society of Jesus in August 1968. He was ordained to the priesthood in June 1979 and pronounced his final vows in December 1995. At the time of his passing, Father Bucki was rector of the Jesuit community and director of campus ministry at LeMoyne College in Syracuse.

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Canisius, the Board of Trustees elected Castiglia a trustee emeritus – or lifetime trustee. A very grateful alma mater also recognized Castiglia with a LaSalle Medal, induction into the DiGamma Society, the Distinguished Alumni Award, an honorary degree and the Board of Regents Distinguished Citizen Award.

Russell A. Fiorella ’63 April 4, 2017

Richard J. Nowicki MSEd ’71 March 1, 2017

Sandra R. Marinelli MS ’76 July 19, 2017

William J. Fuchs Jr. ’83 August 8, 2017

James F. Eagan ’66, MSEd ’77 June 18, 2017

David B. Laska ’72 June 29, 2017

Mary I. (Manning) Murphy MS ’76, ’85 March 5, 2017

Melvin J. Hoffman MA ’83, PhD May 17, 2017

William A. Rossiter MSEd ’66 July 18, 2017

Michael H. Newman ’72 April 30, 2017

William M. Thomas ’76 April 4, 2017

Michael R. Lavin MBA ’83 June 24, 2017

Charles M. Fischer ’67 May 4, 2017

Paul E. Pawlow ’72 February 22, 2017

Deborah B. Cohen MS ’78 July 6, 2017

Henrietta Lubkowski ’83 July 22, 2017

Nicholas L. Locicero ’67 July 1, 2017

W. Michael Urbanski ’73 March 6, 2017

Michael J. Eadie ’78 April 11, 2017

Marykay (McMahon) Colin ’85 July 6, 2017

Edward S. Mitalski MSEd ’67 February 24, 2017

Maureen E. (Friel) Zambito ’74, MSEd ’77 July 1, 2017

Evangeline (Rusinski) Simon MS ’78 May 2, 2017

Thomas S. Kozoduj ’86 June 10, 2017

Richard J. Couture MSEd ’68 July 7, 2017

Mary C. Furlong MSEd ’75 May 21, 2017

Carol J. Herbert ’79 May 19, 2017

Pamela J. Worsham ’86 March 28, 2017

Kenneth J. McGuire ’68 June 17, 2017

Cecelia M. (Hinkley) Litwin MSEd ’75 April 2, 2017

Nicholas J. Maile Jr. ’80 April 6, 2017

Kristen M. (Weir) Bouderau ’88 July 1, 2017

Laetitia C. (Cullen) Bourke MSEd ’69 April 1, 2017

Br. Louis N. Mauro ’75 July 28, 2017

Paul R. Rielle ’80 November 15, 2016

James E. Marschner ’95 July 10, 2017

Walter C. Fenwick Jr. MSEd ’69 June 19, 2017

Catherine J. Salzman MSEd ’75 August 4, 2017

Virginia E. (Pedersen) Currier MS ’81 August 3, 2017

John J. Wilson MS ’96 December 20, 2016

Walter F. Kuppinger MSEd ’70 May 31, 2017

Patrick J. Wrafter ’75 June 14, 2017

Cynthia H. (Hunt) Smith MS ’81 February 12, 2017

James A. Olson MS ’01 June 9, 2017

Jeanne-Marie Poorten MSEd ’70 May 11, 2017

Carol Z. (Zent) Fix MS ’76 July 24, 2017

Paul D. Whitlark ’82 April 24, 2017

Joan L. (Kostick) Andrews HON ’12 May 15, 2017

William J. Fileti ’71 April 22, 2017 FALL 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGA ZINE

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2016-2017

Annual Report of Donors As we use this Annual Report of Donors to reflect on 2016-17, we similarly celebrate the many achievements that confirm the focus and dedication of Canisius College to educating students and transforming lives. Access and affordability continue to be a priority for the college, as evidenced most recently with the launch of Excellence Within Reach (see page 4). And it was a proud moment this past year when U.S. News & World Report ranked Canisius No. 9 on its list of best value schools in the North. That ranking was followed up by another from Student Loan Report, which named Canisius “among the best in the nation” to offer financial aid to students. Canisius can also boast that it’s one of only 16 providers from 10 states to receive CAEP accreditation for its educator preparation programs. The Richard J. Wehle School of Business received a similar seal-of-approval from AACSB International—The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, which renewed the school’s business accreditation. Not surprisingly, Canisius’ accounting program remains No. 1 in New York State. Likewise, our pre-law students averaged an 88 percent acceptance rate into law school and our pre-med students maintained an 86 percent acceptance rate into medical school.* Such successes are tied, in large part, to the generous contributions – in all sizes – from you, our donors. We extend our heartfelt thanks in this Annual Report, to everyone for their support of Canisius in 2016-17. As you will read from the testimonials that follow, you are helping to make a significant difference in the lives of our students and exemplifying what the power of many can do.

2016-2017

DE V ELOPM EN T SU M M A RY * Canisius Fund. . . . . . . . . . $2,818,147

Endowment. . . . . . . . . . $3,454,532 Capital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $263,104 TOTAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,535,783 *Includes gifts & pledges

The following pages offer an abbreviated version of the 2016-17 Annual Report. To view all levels of donor support for annual, capital

William M. Collins Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Canisius College *Based on five-year average

and/or endowed gifts, please visit

canisius.edu/AR


CanisiusFund

Canisius Fund Annual gifts to the Canisius Fund play an integral role in the success of Canisius and our students. These gifts provide essential funding for tuition and scholarship assistance, academic and athletic excellence and innovative learning experiences that are central to our Jesuit educational mission. In fiscal year 2016-17, more than 6,100 alumni, parents, friends, faculty, staff and organizations donated to the Canisius Fund. Such generosity resulted in $2.8 million raised— funds that impact each and every one of the 3,734 students at Canisius.

DONOR PROFILE

$2.8million

RAISED BY THE CANISIUS FUND IN 2016-17

6,135

DONORS TO THE CANISIUS FUND IN 2016-17

3,734

STUDENTS IMPACTED BY DONATIONS TO THE CANISIUS FUND

Robert L. Infantino ’62, MS ’68, EdD Professor Emeritus, Education University of San Diego “I have always believed in giving back, using my time, talent and treasure to assist others. I began giving back to Canisius at the start of my college teaching career. With five children in eight years, we could not afford much but the appeal to ‘give something’ resonated with me. I began small, knowing that every little bit helps the continuation of the excellent education I received at Canisius. At my 50th reunion in 2012, I was able to pledge a more substantial amount over a five-year period and know that many of my classmates were able and willing to do the same. It’s my hope that every graduate will start to contribute soon after graduation so the college may continue its mission of educating men and women who serve the community and beyond.” Dr. Infantino has made a gift to the college’s annual giving campaign every year since 1975. WEB EXTRA > Read more about Dr. Infantino and the influence Canisius had on his life at www.canisius.edu/magazine.

Photo: Zachary Barron FALL 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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CanisiusFund 3,734 students

6,135 donors

$2.8+ million

*TUITION ASSISTANCE & SCHOLARSHIPS

BLUE & GOLD ATHLETICS FUND

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

PRESIDENTIAL DISCRETIONARY FUND

JESUIT MISSION & IDENTITY

$1,600,000

$476,000

$359,000

$145,000

$56,000

designated by 3,154 donors

designated by 1,183 donors

designated by 1,193 donors

designated by 168 donors

designated by 437 donors

*Because tuition assistance for students is the college’s greatest need, unrestricted gifts are included in Tuition Assistance and Scholarships. In addition, donors designated $161,000 to support other areas such as student life, residence life, administrative departments and special fundraising projects.

408

MORE DONORS TO THE CANISIUS FUND IN 2016-17 THAN IN 2015-16

673

YOUNG ALUMNI (CLASSES OF 2007-16) PARTICIPATED IN 2016-17

$120

AVERAGE GIFT MADE BY DONORS WHO CONTRIBUTE UNDER $1,000 ANNUALLY

11%

ALUMNI GIVING PARTICIPATION RATE FOR 2016-17

Thank You “Canisius offered me the most financial support, which was of great influence in my decision to attend. Since then, the endless support of donors enabled me to participate in two international service-immersion trips both of which were impactful, life-changing experiences that helped me better understand my values. As my journey at Canisius now continues into graduate school, I am forever grateful to those who contribute to the progress and success of Canisius and its students.” Geovaira J. Hernandez ’17 BA, Criminal Justice


CanisiusFund

G I V I N G D AY 04 • 2 6 • 2 0 1 7 WE SAID WE CAN. TOGETHER WE DID. AGAIN! Canisius broke all records on April 26, 2017, when the second annual Giving Day garnered an impressive $345,047 in donations to the college. Money raised came from 2,009 alumni, friends, parents, faculty, staff and students who made gifts during the 24-hour giving campaign. That’s the highest number of donors to make a gift to the college in a single 24-hour period. Helping to push the dollars raised even higher were challenge grants from the Canisius College Board of Trustees, the Class of 1967, and an anonymous donor and friend of the women’s rowing team.

2,009 donors

$345,047

G I V I N G D AY 04 • 2 5 • 2 0 1 8 W E C A N

The Class of 1967 commemorated its 50-year reunion in 2017 by making a bit of history. The jubilarians presented Canisius President John J. Hurley with a class gift in the amount of nearly $700,000. It is the largest reunion gift ever made by a class to alma mater. The money will support the Canisius endowment and the Canisius Fund. Helping to raise the record amount were Class of 1967 reunion co-chairs Nelson Civello, Christine (Carroll) Culhane, James McPhee, Dennis Misko and Gerald Zon.

FALL 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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LeadershipSociety

Leadership Society Donors who contribute $1,000 or more annually are recognized with membership in the Canisius College Leadership Society. More than 942 alumni, friends, faculty, staff, parents and organizations supported Canisius at this level during the 2016-17 fiscal year. Collectively, their generous commitments provided a total of $5.8 million in annual, endowment and capital fund support to the college.

186

NEW MEMBERS JOINED THE LEADERSHIP SOCIETY IN 2016-17

63

YOUNG ALUMNI LEADERSHIP SOCIETY MEMBERS

Thank You “Without the generous support of donors, I would not have been able to participate in a Kairos retreat at Cradle Beach in Angola and the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice in Washington, D.C. Both helped me explore the Jesuit values more deeply. These experiences truly made me feel like a part of the Ignatian family and taught me what it means to set the world on fire.” Nicole T. Masaki ’18 BA, English, Environmental Studies, Philosophy

DONOR PROFILE

James C. Murray Jr. ’03

Partner, ExSight Capital Management New York, NY “Canisius very much chose me rather than the other way around. I had my sights set on California for college when Canisius offered me an attractive academic scholarship. Very quickly, it became obvious that Canisius was the best place for me. “Several years after graduation, I became involved again with Canisius. It took someone whom I respected, encouraging me to get involved. He pointed out the critical role institutions play in our society and that the strength of those institutions is directly dependent on individual commitments. Hopefully, my annual gift plays a small role in strengthening the college while enriching the student experience. I also hope to inspire alumni to commit to strengthening institutions like Canisius which underpin our society.” James Murray is a generous contributor to the Canisius College Leadership Society and a founding member of the Desmond Law Society. Photo: Chris Lee


LeadershipSociety L E V EL S OF L E A DER SH I P Chairman’s Circle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25,000+ 1870 Founder’s Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10,000 - $24,999 Peter Canisius Fellow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $5,000 - $9,999 President’s Council Benefactor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,500 - $4,999 President’s Council Member. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,000 - $2,499 The Magis Giving Circle plays an exceptionally important role at Canisius and in the lives of students. Established in 2015, its members contribute at one of the three highest giving levels: the Chairman’s Circle, the 1870 Founders Club and Peter Canisius Fellow. In 2016-17, a total of 217 Magis Giving Circle members contributed $4.6 million in annual, endowment and capital fund support to the college.

YOU NG A LU M N I L E V EL S * 1-2 years since graduation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100 3-5 years since graduation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $250 6-8 years since graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $500 9-10 years since graduation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750 * Based on undergraduate class years

DONOR PROFILE

Christopher F. Malof MBA ’96, CIMA Managing Director – Wealth Management Senior Portfolio Manager UBS Wealth Management

“There are three stages in life: The first third of one’s life is dedicated to learning. The next third to earning. The final third should be focused on returning. “Canisius’ evening MBA program enabled me to harness my interests in the financial and investment fields and I’ve been fortunate to turn that knowledge into a successful career. Now that I have the means, I believe it’s important to give back and help provide for the next generation.” Christopher Malof supported Canisius College in FY 2016-17 by becoming a new member of Magis Giving Circle.

FALL 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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DemskeSociety

The Rev. James M. Demske 4 ’ 7, SJ, Society Established in 1982, the Rev. James M. Demske ’47, SJ Society honors alumni and friends who include Canisius College in their estate plans. Like Father Demske, who served as president of Canisius College from 1966 until 1993, members of the society help to secure an even brighter future for Canisius College and our students, and at the same time, forever tie their legacies to the legacy of leadership at Canisius College.

$1,976,535 IN BEQUESTS REALIZED IN 2016-17 FISCAL YEAR

790

REV. DEMSKE SOCIETY MEMBERS AS OF MAY 31, 2017

Thank You “I want to study animals and change the world, which was initially why I considered Canisius and its Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation Program. I realized, however, that Canisius was the right fit for me after I toured campus, met the faculty and experienced the family atmosphere. The scholarship I received allows me to study at the school of my choice and make the most of my education without having to worry about monetary issues. It helps immensely and I am so very thankful.” Elizabeth M. Tanner ’21 Animal Behavior, Ecology & Conservation Recipient, J. Peterson Vaughn Family Scholarship Fund

DONOR PROFILE

Christopher Zarra ’90, CFP, ChFC, CFS ®

®

®

“Being the first person in my family to receive a college degree, I am forever grateful for my Canisius experience. The small class sizes, combined with the high-quality liberal arts curriculum and strong Jesuit values of giving back and helping others, continue to influence my daily life.” To help ensure the strength of a Canisius education continues for generations, Christopher Zarra made a planned gift to the college in 2016-17.

Photo: Chris Lee


EndowedSupport

Endowed Support Endowed funds help Canisius ensure a perpetual source of financial aid for every worthy student, strengthen the college’s academic excellence and build upon its state-ofthe-art living and learning facilities. An endowed gift is one made with the stipulation that the principal can never be spent; only earnings over and above the principal can be expended. As of May 31, 2017, the college’s endowment stood at nearly $123.7 million. Also last year, Canisius secured 14 new endowed gifts and awarded more than $4.6 million in endowed funds, up 48 percent from the previous year.

N E W EN DOW ED F U N DS Gladys Brooks Foundation Endowed Scholarship The Ellen O. Conley Student Affairs Professional Development Endowment The J. Patrick & Rebecca Greenwald Scholarship Fund Melvin H. Kent ’63 Scholarship Fund Mark J. Koziel ’91 CPA, CGMA Accounting Scholarship The Dr. James McCarthy Endowed Scholarship Fund in Economics, Established in his memory by Thomas J. Nestor Edna Carmody Morley MA ’20 The Raymond E. Naber, Jr. ’54 Scholarship Fund The David J. ’79 & Mary Beth (Pace) ’83 Nasca Family Scholarship Fund The William J. & Mary H. Neff Family Scholarship Fund The Ruth J. Schwendler Scholarship in memory of her parents, Henry and Clara Schwendler Donald Sendor & Eileen Crotty Sendor ’78 Accounting Scholarship Fund The Anthony ’84 & Lisa Shelley Pre-Law Scholarship Fund Frank J. Sparacino ’15 Family Scholarship Fund The Peterson Vaughan Family Scholarship Fund

Thank You “Growing up, I knew I wanted a career in a field where I could help people. At Canisius, Jesuit values make our campus community and education so special. The emphasis on service, justice and caring for the whole person describes what I’ve aspired to do my whole life. I am able to attend Canisius because of the generosity of donors. My Canisius education has paved the way for the life I’ve dreamed about living and because of that I will always be grateful.” Madelyn Reed ’18 Management, Sociology Recipient, J. Paul ’65 & Mary Synor Scholarship

“My Canisius education taught me the Jesuit philosophy of educating the whole person – mind, heart and body – and to use my knowledge to help others, which is what led me to my career as a licensed clinical social worker. “My wife, Mary, and I chose to establish a scholarship at Canisius to help students offset the rising cost of a college education and to foster in students a desire to assist others in need.” J. Paul Synor ’65 (Retired) Director of Social Work, WNY Developmental Disabilities Services FALL 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGAZINE

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