leaving a legacy 1995-2019
M.S. Communication & Leadership 2018-2019 Newsletter
A LETTER FROM THE GA
Hello Everyone! It is hard to believe that I have reached the finale of six wonderful years of engaging, challenging, and inspiring education at Canisius College. As sad as it is, I find it bittersweet that my leave of the College is paired with the suspension of the Communication and Leadership program. This program has given me so much over the course of the past two years and I am so grateful for all of the knowledge, experience, and memories that I have been granted through it. While the program will no longer run, us alumni will continue to be better leaders, communicators, workers, and people. All that the program has given to us will live well beyond our graduations and continue into its legacy. It has been my pleasure to work as the Graduate Assistant for the ComLead program these past two years and I could not have imagined my Grad school experience any differently. The Com office has become a little home for me and I have developed wonderful relationships with our professors and staff as well as my fellow GA, Dave, who worked right down the hall. The two of us did not know one another in undergrad and I could not be more grateful for the fact that this program made us the best of friends. My days at Canisius have always been my favorite parts of the week, and I am going to miss the atmosphere of the office, especially the days when dogs would come for a visit! While it will be a big adjustment, I also leave Canisius full of knowledge, values, love, and a mission for myself. I plan to work in Arts Administration after graduation and look forward to whatever my future holds for me beyond this campus. Thank you for taking the time to give us your attention. I hope that whether you are a current graduate, an alumni, a professor, faculty, parent, or friend, that your experience with the ComLead program has been a positive one. Thank you to Dr. Hartman for taking me on as your GA, I could not have done this all without your faith in me. And thank you to everyone I have met through this program who has helped me to grow, as well as the friends and family who have been patiently waiting for me to have a normal life again! Lastly, thank you to you, ComLead! Best wishes,
Special thanks to Juno the Therapy Dog for her visits to the office!
Devon Bradley Bradle16@canisius.edu
Facebook.com/ComLead
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR BLOG!
WWW.COMLEADBLOG.COM LEADERSHIP NOT-FOR-PROFITS INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION
It has been an honor to supply content for the dept’s blog, we hope you have enjoyed the ride! Breast Cancer Awareness Month And How You Can Help Posted by COMLEAD on Oct. 22, 2018 in COMLEAD
Every year in October we see touches of pink across the globe. Our football teams, the Niagara Falls, the White House, and more all deck themselves out in shades of pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But what exactly does it mean to be aware? Breast Cancer Awareness is more than just knowing that this is a disease that exists, so here are some important sources that you can check out for more information and ways that you can show support. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual campaign intent on increasing awareness of the second most common form of cancer in American women. Last weekend, Buffalo hosted the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. This event brought in a sea of people, all donning pink apparel and ribbons, to walk in camaraderie alongside others impacted by breast cancer. Each year this walk brings the American Cancer Society thousands of donations and further supplies another generation with knowledge of this disease... See more at: http://comleadblog.com/2018/10/22/breast-cancer-awareness-month/
DON’T STOP ME NOW
Communication & Leadership Class of 2018 Graduate Commencement May 16, 2018
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR ALUMS
“What is a legacy?...
What does the word “Legacy” mean to ComLead? “Legacy means living out a tradition.” - Courtney Sullivan “Legacy is the lasting impression you leave behind. It is when something has had such an impact on the lives of others that it will be remembered forever.” - Emily Gumkowski “What impact you leave behind that can help other people achieve their goals.” - Ken Liszewski “For me, legacy means setting a foundation that will inspire and support others.” - Rachel Bediako “Legacy to me means a specific amount of something left behind.” - Alexa Valdez “Legacy to me means leaving something tangible or intangible behind that others can learn from or use.” - David Goodwin “This may not be the expected answer, but Legacy to me often means “old.” In the business world, the term is often used to describe old systems or ways of thinking. Legacy reminds me of old habits and practices that are being held onto because “that’s how we’ve always done it” and not the forward thinking and innovation that’s needed to grow and survive in today’s global environment.” - Carrie Patterson “I believe that a legacy is something you leave behind; what you are remembered for doing or saying, something you have given back to a world in which has given us so much.” - Heather Stammler “Legacy means the intentional continuation of something deemed precious or good.” - Sydnie Perkins
...It’s planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” “Having character and competence and sharing that with the world.” - Lori Miller “How our impact is remembered after we’re gone.” - Erin Wilkins “Legacy means lasting....something those that come after us can reference.” - Lisa Roy “Pride in my roots.” - Tracy Rozewicz “To me the legacy is the past history, and reputation, and inherent value which can be passed on through continued success, and future acheivements.” - Michael Caputi “To pass on something meaningful to someone else.” - Raymond Konieczek “When one creates a legacy, one leaves something behind...it is up to the person leaving that ‘something’ wether it will be a positive or negative experience for others to look back on.” - Kathryn Mendola “To leave a lasting impact and impression on one’s work, family and community.” - Julie Berrigan “Legacy is what you leave behind, your mark on the world you live in.” - Irma Tyszko “To me, legacy means creating a vision and purpose that goes beyond yourself.” - Matt Gorczyca “A lasting impression.” - Sarah Warner
*
2019 CAPSTONE
Rachel Bediako
Job Satisfying Messages
*Director of Communication and Outreach at First Baptist Church, IN
2018 CAPSTONE Kristin Augenblick
Celanthropy and Social Media: Millennial giving in a world of celebrity endorsements
Emily Barber*
Women in the Workforce: A study of occupational self-efficacy and career aspirations
Christina DiBaudo
Giving After Times of Organizational Crisis: The Relationship Between Source Credibility and Intent to Give
Breanne Flynn
Mentoring Relationships: Association between Mentor/Protégé Relationships and Communication Satisfaction
Ken Liszewski
Brand/Cause Fit and Brand Attitudes
Joshua Smith
The Association between Corporate Social Responsibility, Emotional Attachment, and Brand Reputation
* Accepted and Presented at the Eastern Communication Association’s Annual Conference in the Applied Communication Division
Andrew Bennett
Donor Choice and its Influence on Giving
Devon Bradley
Arts Engagement and Future Arts Patronage
Jennifer Czapla
The Impact of Attachment Styles on Burnout: A Comparison of Self- and Organizationally-Employed Individuals
David Goodwin
Perceptual Determinants in Millennial Fundraising Communication Specialist at The Summit Center
Alexandra Haar
Social Media and Consumer Engagement, Satisfaction, and Brand Loyalty Market Development Specialist II at Ingram Micro
Carrie Patterson
Improving Patient Perceptions Through Digital Marketing Communication Channels Instructional Design Manager at UnitedHealthcare
Sydnie Perkins
Narative Transportation (Success Stories) and its Relationship with Donor Participation Assistant Director of Communication, Virtual Engagement, and Data at Canisius College
Elizabeth somerville
The Relationship Between the Big Five Personality Traits and Listening Styles Sr Business Communication Specialist in Business Banking at M&T Bank
Raymond Suchan
The Impact of Social Networks in the Workplace and Job Satisfaction Senior Manufacturing Supervisor at Moog, Inc.
Alexa Valdez
What are the Types of Messages that Encourage Millennials to Engage in Donating to Not-For-Profit
a letter from dr. hartman communication & leadership director 2005-2019
As you read through our final MS in Communication newsletter, you will begin to understand our theme of Leaving a Legacy. While the program is suspended, we continue to pursue the ideals espoused within a Jesuit education and at the core of the Communication and Leadership curriculum. As alumni, your work continues to impact the community and will for decades to come. As we reach our conclusion, I look back to when I was teaching as an adjunct professor at Canisius. At that time, the full time faculty members in the Dept. of Communication were discussing the creation of a graduate program bridging communication courses with management courses; it was revolutionary thinking in program design. From their discussion, the MS in Organizational Communication and Development (OCD) began. In the fall of 2005, I returned to Canisius as the program director of the OCD graduate program. We were tasked with rethinking the curriculum within the graduate program. From that process, three concentrations were created: Managing the Not for Profit Organization, Integrated Marketing Communication and Organizational Leadership. The program was renamed MS in Communication and Leadership to reflect the new concentrations and align with Canisius College being, “where leaders are made”. The program grew and we continued to attract academically strong students. We created the Communication and Leadership endowment, which will continue within the Dept. of Communication Studies. We sponsored guest speakers, created panel discussions, held grant writing workshops and many C&L student and alumni gatherings. The quality of our student capstone research papers have consistently been presented at the Eastern Communication Association’s annual conference for more than a decade. When leading, change is a given. The same is true for academic programs. The suspension of the MS in Communication and Leadership is the result of critical reflection in a time of scarce resources and declining enrollment. My heart is bound to the ideals and values in which the program is grounded and that will continue in my undergraduate teaching. This newsletter is dedicated to our former students, current students, alumnus of the MS in Communication and Leadership program and alumnus of the MS in Organizational Communication and Development program. As you read about our current students and alumni, you will recognize how each of you have become men and women for others. Leaving a Legacy means the program lives on in each of our graduates and in your accomplishments. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to direct such an impactful program. I move on with much gratitude and heartfelt thanks for the chance to meet and work with each one of you. Peace, Dr. Rosanne Hartman Director, MS Communication and Leadership
Congratulations Class of 2019
Life Updates
Life Updates Sydnie Perkins Class of 2019/2020 Released her first solo album, “I Love You Lord” available in stores www.sydnieperkins.com/
Ken Liszewski Class of 2018 Graduated from Leadership Buffalo’s Rising Leaders program in 2017
Michael Caputi Class of 2004 Opened Daily Planet Coffee Co. Inc. in 2014, now hitting its 5th anniversary! Looking to open his second location soon www.dailyplanetcoffee.com/
Jennifer Paterson Class of 2001 Decided to make a career change and go back to school at UB for K-12 Counseling
Mary Jo Rehak Class of 2014 Engaged to Lance Konkle in 2018 and planning a summer wedding for 2019!
Emily Gumkowski Class of 2017 Moved into her new house with her fiance and changed positions to work as an HR Generalist at Alcott HR
Erika Gullo Class of 2010 Welcomed her third baby into the world in 2018 and moved to a new home
Courtney Sullivan Class of 2017 Promoted at Canisius to Leadership Giving Officer, her son Roman James Sullivan was born on October 9, 2018
Savithri Grant Class of 2007 Moved to Chicago in 2016 and started a small business called Savalina Sweets @savalinasweets on FB Amanda Snider Class of 2013 Moved to Philadelphia in August and began a new job as Marketing Manager of Temple University Health System
Lori Miller Class of 2000 Just completed a new branding strategy with her company, Developing Professionals, and launched a new website in honor of her company’s 15th anniversary! www.developingprofessionals.com
Life Updates Melissa Cope Class of 2016 Married in 2016, promoted in 2016 and 2019, and daughter, Cecelia, was born November of 2018!
Taylor Schupp Class of 2015 Moving to Albany, NY, to begin a new position in Admissions at The Albany Academies
Breanne Flynn Class of 2018 Found a job in her field after graduation and added another golden retriever puppy to her family!
Shannon McCabe Class of 2011 Got engaged in January to her fiance, Blake, and accepted into the 2019 Leadership Buffalo Class
Michael Riccio Class of 2014 Engaged in December 2017 and planning a wedding for October 26, 2019
James Graziano Class of 2013 Welcomed baby boy, Luca, into the world on September 11, 2018 and promoted to Marketing Manager the same month!
ComLead Through the Years
A WORD FROM FR. BERNARD A WORD FROM FR. BERNARD cont’d
The accomplishments of others is still in the budding stages as alumni have assumed positions of all types in a whole range is charities and organizations whose goals all strive to make the world a better place in mind, body, and spirit for those of us who inhabit it! I look to the future and see only great things on the horizon because they will be part of the growth and new life. I choose not to live in a world of “if only….” I am proud to have been part of a program which was conceived and thrived under the direction of Dr. Rosanne Hartman and was informed by the contributions of Mr. Neil Melbrod and others who taught in the program. We had our time in the sun and what a time it was! During the tenure of this program we did good – dare I say great? -things. The reality of academia is such, however, that the sun has set on the program. Jerry Theresanathan, ComLead alum ‘16, and Father Bernard
“Chapter 3 of the Book of Ecclesiastes begins with the frequently quoted phrase: There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens. A time to give birth, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant. This quote came to mind as I sat down to reflect upon the ending of the ComLead program as it has evolved over the past decade and a half and of which I have been privileged to play some small part with the non-profit concentration. This is the framework in which I choose to place my reflection and consider what might define the legacy of the program and those who took part in it.
What I see is the legacy of seeds sown into the minds and spirits of women and men who will change the world! I am happy to have been a small part of the sowing and now await with joyful anticipation to behold what great things will be accomplished by those to whom we have entrusted the dream and vision of being mission driven forces of change, transforming the world into the place it is intended to be. As we close this chapter I am filled with hope of a world made better because our alumni are in it – they are the legacy, the conveyance of the values which defined the very reason for this program. Our alumni are our greatest present and future gift to charity! Father Bernard Olszewski
In a blog for professionals in the not-for-profit world Greg Lassonde, a practitioner on the West Coast wrote: “As for how one defines legacy giving? I don’t think we’ll ever arrive at a universal definition…but professionals have come up with two definitions: 1) To convey one’s values through creation of a (usually) future gift to charity; 2) A foresighted action to strengthen a favorite cause. As I think about the materials covered in the courses for the non-profit concentration I believe that the first definition of legacy giving is most appropriate when considering the impact this program has had and will have in the 21st century world. The ComLead non-profit program was rooted in the core mission values of Canisius College and of Jesuit education in general. The commitment to social justice and the development of students who are “men and women for and with others” were not mere theory for this program. These concepts anchored all that was studied in the classroom and practiced in concrete ways in the required service learning component of each course. In its brief lifetime the ComLead program has helped form women and men to bear the responsibility of being leaders in the world of philanthropy not only in Western New York but in all parts of the world as well. The accomplishments of some are already being recognized. One of our alumni was chosen as the youngest participant in the Emerging Leaders Program of Leadership Buffalo! Others hold positions of Executive Director or Vice President of large foundations and organizations. The program has produced some great fruit! cont. on next page
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME WITH US!
Your Favorite ComLead Experience? As difficult as the capstone project was at times, going through it with a small group of people brought us closer together! James Graziano, 2013 Capstone with Dr. Dahlberg, building friendships with professors and classmates. Savithri Vijayakumar Grant, 2007 Working with Dr. Wanzer on publishing a research article in a journal and teaching in the department after graduation. Jeffrey Irwin, PhD, 2009 The opportunity to explore formally how critical communication is within an organization and how our personal styles fit into that construct. In my profession, communication is foundational to effective execution. Erika Gullo, 2010 The combination of the Communication & Leadership classes along with the MBA classes fully prepared me to accelerate my career. Also, the contacts I've been able to develop were, and will continue to be, invaluable to both my personal and professional life. Kristen Ann Van Dewater, 2010 Great professors and real life examples/experiences - and a nice mix of ages and expertise among classmates. Julie Raynsford Berrigan, 2013 I had an awesome cohort and enjoyed working on real-world marketing plans. Kristen McAuley, 2014 I met incredible people with whom I am still in touch - classmates and professors. I think my favorite part was the personal nature of the program. Mary Jo Rehak, 2014 When my cohort was working with their survey data in SPSS, I remember that the room was tense because it was our final hurdle before finishing our capstone, so to help lighten the mood we agreed to play some Justin Timberlake and everyone helped one another analyze and interpret their data. It took something that initially felt very solitary and made it a collaborative effort, which really summarizes the entire program experience. Everyone supported everyone. Michael Riccio, 2014 As a result of the capstone project having my research published, but also meeting and networking with a great cohort of classmates who are now great friends, and working professionals who have guided my career. Matt Gorczyca, 2015 Being Dr. Hartman's graduate assistant and forming several close friendships. Sarah Warner, 2016 I loved being the ComLead GA and working in the Communication office with Dave! It was great to work with the department’s professors and to spend so much time at Canisius. My other favorite was definitely our Leadership project where we worked with Peaceprints of WNY! Devon Bradley, 2019
Your Favorite ComLead Experience? I would say class at a bar but that hadn’t happened. So, instead I will say presenting my final presentation to friends and family after working so hard for a year. Also, becoming close enough with my classmates that they are family. Vincent E. Panuccio, 2016 The People! I developed long lasting friendships and relationships with so many individuals in the program, students and professors. I will forever be thankful for the Communication and Leadership program for bringing these people into my life and for everything I learned from these people and my courses. Emily Gumkowski, 2017 The interaction, support, and one on one with the professors and students. Canisius is such a strong learning community and not only pushes you educationally, but motivates and help to empower each other to reach our goals. Breanne Flynn, 2018 Getting real life advice from alumni during presentations and panels and developing a new, strong network of like-minded peers. Christina DiBaudo, 2018 All the incredible people I was able to meet during my time in the program. Rachel Bediako, 2019 I loved being a GA in the Communication Studies Office and getting to hang out with the ComLead GA Devon every week! Dave Goodwin, 2019 Exploring theories and seeing how they apply both professionally and personally. Carrie Patterson, 2019 The opportunity I had to work with local non-profit organizations to help solve problems and complete projects - the hands-on learning style is part of what made this program so unique. Samantha Long, 2013 Learning how to apply different communication styles in the workplace - this is something that I still use today! Shannon McCabe, 2011 The friends and network that I created because of the tight-knit nature of the program. Cecelia Gotham, 2015 The people I met and network I have available to me. I also enjoyed learning the theories and concepts that I still use today. Jaimie Falzarano (Taylor), 2001 To be mentored by the faculty. I always felt supported and understood a lot due to the faculty engagement with the students. Amanda Snider, 2013 Celebrating the day that we handed in our capstone assignments. Jamie Daly (Norton), 2012
CLASS OF 2018 Kristen Augenblick
Associate Director of Development at Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center
Emily Barber
Human Resources Assistant at Performance Management Partners Inc.
Christina DiBaudo
Special Events and Donor Relations Coordinator at 13thirty Cancer Connect
Breanne Flynn
CLASS OF 2017 Courtney Papaj
Leadership Giving Officer at Canisius College
Emily Gumkowski
HR Generalist at Alcott HR
Caroline Hurley
Special Events Coordinator at Hospice Buffalo
Cydney Johnson
Engine Optimization Specialist at Mainstreethost
Sarah Seiler
Administrative Assistant at Lisa Taylor Academy of Ballet
Katherine Trautwein
Allison Braun
CLASS OF 2016
Teacher and Coach at Xavier High School
Melissa Cope (Feron)
Operations Officer at TechnoServe
Onochie Esenwah Sharon Federico
Bank Officer and Business Line Trainer at M&T Bank
Administrative Associate at Canisius College
Sarah Warner (Guenther)
Matthew Gorczyca
Kaitlyn Munro
Assistant Director of the Canisius Fun at Canisius College
Jo Ann Harig
Real Estate Professional and Nonprofit Consultant
Taylor Schupp
Public Information Officer at Erie County District Attorney’s Office
Admissions at The Albany Academies
Vincent Panuccio
Senior Stylist at the Trunk Club, NYC
Senior Online Service Representative at M&T Bank
Nina Pierino
Complex Director and Title IX Investigator at Buffalo State College
Jerry Theresanathan
Marketing Specialist, Communication Strategist, and Public Speaker at Nichols School
Kathryn McGruire
Social Innovation and Design Thinking at Deloitte
Grace O’Connor
Director of Community Relations and Development Manager at Buffalo Prep Assistant Dean and Director for Constituent and Alumni Engagement at University at Buffalo
CLASS OF 2015
Biran Manning
Kristen McAuley
Mary Jo Rehak
Social Media Marketing Strategist at LocalEdge
IT Project Manager at North County Center at Jamestown Community College
Ola Halawani
Makayla Santiago
Kenneth Liszewski
Marketing and Communications Manager at Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus
Michael Greco
Assistant Manager at Famous Footwear
Marketing Instructor at Penn State, the Behrend College
Development Associate at Mark Morris Dance Group, NYC
Reputation Management Strategist and SEO Strategist at Hearst/LocalEdge
Emily Buscaglia
Quality Assurance and Testing Analyst at Bluecross Blueshield of Western New York
Jennifer Kilo
Store Manager at Ten Thousand Villages
Joshua Smith
Monica Furlong (radel)
Intensive Care Nurse at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Care Center
HR Generalist at Aramco Asia, Saudi Arabia
Fundraising and Special Events Planner at Mount Mercy Academy Grant Writer/Development Associate at Olmsted Center for Sight
CLASS OF 2014
CLASS OF 2013 Erin Sassone (Harvey)
Manager for Marketing and Campus Engagement at Kaleida Health System
Hussam Almukhtar
Head of Enterprise Demand Gen at FinancialForce, California
Julie Berrigan
Executive Director at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation of Catholic Health
Brian Burkhardt
Wealth Management Advisor and Assistant Vice President of Merill Lynch Wealth Management
John Cahalan IV
Former Operations Manager for Bison Fleet, Volunteer Cubmaster for Boyscouts of America
Julie Ciura
Population Health Management Success Manager at Meritain Health
Sarah Graham
Management Consultant at Accenture
James Graziano
Michael Riccio
Marketing Manager at Hearst/LocalEdge
Mary Kate Sidoti
Executive Director of American Cancer Society
Irma Tyszko
Assistant Supervisor, Buffalo VA Contract at Olmsted Center for Sight
Systems Specialist at Read to Succeed Buffalo Senior Analyst at Crowley Webb & Associates Corporate Talent Acquisition Manager at Bryant and Stratton College
Joanna Jacob
Samantha Long Jeffrey Mokski
Managerial Assistant at The Home Depot
Janie Piemonte
Recruiting and Program Manager for the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University
Jessica Schlecht
Project and Marketing Coordinator at Pella Windows and Doors
Amanda Snider
Kathryn Smith
Marketing Manager at Temple University Health Systems
Frank Sparacino
Legal Assistant at Waylon Graham, Esq.
Lori Winkler
Marketing Manager at Ingram Micro Inc. and Adjunct Professor at Bryant and Stratton College
Volunteer for the Romulus Club, Lorenzo Burrows Post, and Italian American Societies Treatment Supervisor
Christine Ostertag Lauren Hackford
CLASS OF 2012 Emily Felmet (Lenihan)
Communications Specialist II at Bluecross Blueshield of Western New York
CLASS OF 2011 Kathryn mendola (kowalski)
Grant Manager at Erie County Medical Center
Renee Macfarland (lasher)
Abbey Barnard (Saxby)
Formerly Management with Frito Lay until 2017
Susan Derylak
Justin Baumgardner Bob Bevilacqua
Premium Practice at Johnson & Johnson Vision Senior Project Manager at M&T Bank
Kelly Bernard (Harris)
Assistant Sales Representative at Verbatim Americas, LLC
Amy Kaus williams
Director of Human Resources Information Systems and Operations at Windham Professionals, Inc.
Karen Lemischak
Marketing Manager at Fisher Price Inc.
Laura Marek
Director of Development at Heart Walk, American Heart Association in North Carolina
Retail Marketing Manager at New Era Cap
Emily Goodman
Business Analyst at Ingram Micro, Inc.
Erin Hartnett
Associate Director of Advancement University Libraries at University at Buffalo
Holly Hubert
Founder and CEO of GlobalSecurityIQ
Nicole Hue
Organizational Development Manager at HealthNow New York, Inc.
Allison Jackson
Julia Merrill
Regional HR Manager at International Paper
Andreea Novaceanu
Business and Planning Manager at M&T Bank Corporation
Mark Weber
Director of Marketing at Creative World School Franchising Compant, Inc., Florida
Adjunct Professor at Tidewater Community College, Virginia Tour Manager and Owner of A&A Sport Total, Romania Assistant Dean, Alumni Affairs and Development at Cornell University College of Architecture, Art, and Planning
Kate Kane
Shaun Maciejewski Corey Maras
Product Manager at M&T Bank
Shannon McCabe
Sales Account Executive at Synacor, Inc.
Anne Murphy
Vice President and Senior Development Program Manager at M&T Bank
Rebecca Newberry
Executive Director at Clean Air Coalition
Cecily Rodriguez
PHR Founder and Principal of Shift Happens, LLC. Adjunct Professor at UB School of Management and Canisius College Communication Department
Hannah Wirth
Consultant at PassionFruit Consulting, LLC.
CLASS OF 2010 Christin Priester (sottile)
MS, CPA Finance and Accounting Director at Roswell Park Cancer Institute - Health Research, Inc. Division
CLASS OF 2009 Jenna Briggs (McDonald)
National Accounts Manager at Creative Circle
Amanda Klein (Torres)
Rebecca Spillman (Ballaron)
Human Resources Specialist in Employee and Labor Relations at Buffalo VA Medical Center
Lauren Binder
Strategic Acquisition Channels Retail Sales Manager at Verizon
Senior Marketing Manager at Invoclar Vivadent, Inc.
Medical Secretary at Clifford Family Practice
Dorothea baxter-hughes Mary Rose Cameron
Katie Danieu-Schiess
Manager of Talent Acquisition at Integer Holdings
Anne Dehlinger
Director of Board Relations and Chief of Operations at VCU Massey Cancer Center
Melanie Delvalle
District Human Resources Manager at The Home Depot
James Fraser
Manager at Sprint
Michael Lee
Executive Director of Epilepsy Association of WNY
Rebecca Spillman
Representative of STOP FRAUD of EU FUNDS European Citizen’s Initiative
Director of Human Resources and Administration at The Park School of Buffalo Business Development Manager, Registered Nurse, and Co-Active Coach Senior Manager, Channel Financial Solutions at Ingram Micro, Inc. Program Developer and Management Team for Universal Education Center, Vietnam Chief Operating Officer at Evergreen Health Association of WNY Senior Marketing Manager at Invoclar Vivadent, Inc.
Elizabeth Stebbins
Nonprofit Management Consultant; Retired Senior Vice President of HSBC
Kristin Van Dewater
Marketing Manager at Independent Health
Mary Quinn-Fullmer
Adolescent Outreach Coordinator at Fredonia Migrant Education Outreach Program
Michele adcock (castrogiovanni) tracey gordon (coyne) kelly difiglia jeffrey irwin
Zoltan kereszteny Leon Mcclary
Sales Supervisor at Verizon
William Paterson
Vice President and Executive Creative Director at Gelia
CLASS OF 2008 Nancy Bradford (Gonka)
Compliance Generalist at Catholic Health Systems
Tanya Arno
HR at Hamburg Gaming and Casino
Robert Chapman
SVP, Chief People Officer at Brown and Caldwell, Colorado
CLASS OF 2007 Kelli Hennessy (Kane)
Organizational Development and Training at University at Buffalo
Savithri Grant (Vijayakumar)
Owner/Founder and Chief Baking Officer at Savalina Sweets, Chicago
Rosalind Brown
Melissa Eberz
Resource Business Partner at Government of Alberta
Marci Gregson
Coordinator of Community Employment at The Arc Eric County
Communications at Healthy Smiles Family Dental Senior Human Resources Manager at Tesla
Nicholas Heidinger
Pamela Cronyn
CLASS OF 2006 Marcia Gruber
Vice President of Oncology Services at University of Arizona Cancer Center/Dignity Health
Mark Hjalmarson
Internal Technology Audit Consultant (VP) at M&T Bank and Adjunct Professor at University at Buffalo School of Management
Zita Juska (McKenna)
English Teacher at Cousino High School, MI
Lisa Krug
Owner and Founder of Snowmobaby
LaTashia Martin
Owner, Career Agent, Career Transformation, and Talent Advisor at VonSwy Solutions LLC
Debra Park
Owner of Big Brand Theory Communication LLC
Susan Was
Director of Human Resources at Curbell, Inc.
Jill Kelly
Vice President of Human Resources at Delaware North Companies, Inc.
Jason Gordon
Director of Colleague Engagement and Operations at Remedy Intelligent Staffing
Manager of Civil Service in Human Resources Dept at Erie County Medical Center Corporation
Director of Development at Compeer Buffalo
kristen Lovejoy
Michelle Held (Slawiak)
CLASS OF 2005
CLASS OF 2004
Florian Kuchera
Jasser Al-Dabbous Denise Culp
Christie Cahalan Siobhan Campbell-Smith Machael Caputi
Marketing Manager at Buffalo Computer Graphics
Julia Maher
Director of Global Brand Marketing at Fisher-Price, Inc.
Jessica Schimert
Kathryn Heidinger
Director of Philanthropy Research and Strategy at Hilbert College Quality Manager at Curtiss-Wright Corporation, PA
Rita Markle
Organizational Development Consultant at Performance Management Partners, Inc.
Chief Learning Officer at Performance Management Partners, Inc.
Melissa Tulino
Darleen Eylers (Peters)
Senior Strategic Advisor at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
Communications Director at Community Services for the Developmentally Disabled
Jennifer Whitmore
Kristen Reppert
Machining and Fabrication Product Coordinator at Felton, Inc. and Musician
Jennifer Willard
Risk Operations Supervisor at Ingo Money, Georgia
Jessica Zyglis
Lead Copywriter and Brand Creative at Fisher-Price, Inc.
Christopher Daniels
Master Scheduler and Logistics Manager (SAP Key User) at Du Pont
Mental Health at Memorial Healthcare Systems, PA
Kelly Colaprete (Schlueter)
Director of Risk and Controls Group at Royal Bank of Canada
toi Pickens
Verizon Wireless
Heather Stammler
Category Manager of Pizza and Flatbread USC at Rich Products Corporation
Bernard O’Donnell
Management and Financial Consultant at Commercial Banking Compliance
Customer Service Representative at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
Rachelle Dills
Executive Recruiter for Boss & Associates, IA
CEO of Daily Planet Coffee Co. Inc; Adjunct Professor in Business Dept at Buffalo State
Janelle Conti
Paul Dumansky
HR and Talent Acquisition at Career Solutions, Independent Health
Donald Fest
Development Manager in Richmond, VA
Tracy Labby Julia Lamm
Consultant, Motivational Speaker, Program and Curriculum Design, Performance Evaluator, and Charter School Founder in New Haven, CT
Stacey Marks
Chief Human Resources Officer at Tenet Healthcare JFK Memorial Healthcare, CA
Marketing Manager (Intellectual Property Practice) at Perkins Cole LLP, D.C. Regulatory Project Manager at Fisher-Price, Inc.
Movement Coach at Personalized Movement for You, OH Marketing Communications Consultant at Erie Insurance Group
Catherine Massari Kelly Pieczynski Terrilyn Richards Kristen Royer
Network Configuration Analyst at Independent Health
Timothy Scharf
Co-Founder/Partner at Follow Me! Coach, LLC, CA
Carolyn Williams
Mary Culp
Chaka Felder-McEntire
Raymond Konieczek Evguenia Prilipko AMy Reville Tracy Rozewicz
HR Generalist at MacLean Curtis
Roxanne Sikorski
Regional Community Relations Director at ActivCare Living, CA
Sharon Williams
Human Resources Consultant at HR Works, Inc.
Katherine Zoratti
Senior Marketing Manager at Ivoclar Vivadent
CLASS OF 2003
CLASS OF 2002
CLASS OF 1999
Barbara Ernst
Mark Cornwell Matthew Flagg Elizabeth Howard Linda King Brandi Luckman
Christina Agnello Julie Bartoldson Eileen Cain Sherman Sandra Gajkowski Shannon Gilfillan Alison Mackey Michael Marotta Karen McDonnell Kelly Michaels Meghan Reid Jennifer Renda Scott Ritchie Jessica Wessel-Streb Alison Balzer
Owner/Creator at Emerging Ideas in Clarence
Laura Hoogland Kesha Lanier
Associate Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at University at Buffalo
Jeremy Nickerson Christie Nowak
Business Development at Canisius College Women’s Business Center
Product Manager at M&T Bank
Thomas Marron Rachel Virginia
Gina Orsini
Leader, PHR, SHRM-CP, CPBA in Human Resources Business Unit at Reichert, Inc.
Erica Robinson
Jr. Personnel Clerk at Imagine Staffing Technology, ECMC
Col. Steven Rowe
CLASS OF 1998 Tonya Bickham-Chavers
Associate broker at Duluth, GA
Melissa Binga
Human Resources Manager at National Bank of Arizona
James Chlebowy Karla Daniels Jayne Delaney
Pharmaceutical Specialty Sales Representative
Dwight Gram III
President of Global Corporate Communications at Rich Products Corporation
Kenneth Kraft Senior Technical Project Manager at IGT, NV
Dominique LaTona Theresa Lundquist John McKinney
Relationship Recruiter for Marriott International and Peoplescout
Director of Military Personnel in Albany, NY
Renee Whelan
Human Resources Director at Precious Plate, Inc.
Vice President of Operations and Sales at Buffalo Lake Erie Wireless
Jill Miodonski
Manager at Verizon Wireless
Fenton Moran
CLASS OF 1997 CLASS OF 2000 CLASS OF 2001 Patrice Clarke-Funderburg Jaimie Falzarano
Director of Special Programs in the School of Management at University at Buffalo
Kelly Gruber Lori Miller
Owner of Developing Professionals
Jennifer Paterson
Senior Designer at Haley Marketing Group
Lisa Roy
Sr. Development Manager at Junior Achievement of WNY
Nadine Schwanz Mary Szabat Amy Weymouth Carol William
Julie Bradley Keerisa Chuwanich Csaba Csendes Jeffrey Davignon Anthony Dell Patricia German Louise Kowalski Tracy Reed Tava Shanchuk Judith Spear
Principal at FENTON GROUP, LLC - Human Capital Consulting
Kathryn Mandel
Laju Nankani
General Manager of SunHard Higher Education, GA
Director of International Programs and Adjunt Instructor at Centralia College, WA
Holly Palmer
Director of Human Resources at Expedition Technology, Inc., VA
Nancy Palumbo-Reeve James Privitera
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mediator at US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Suzanne Rubins Karen Taylor
Senior Manager, HR Business Partner at Fidelis Care
Executive Coach and Organizational Renewal Consultant at RV Rhodes LLC
Cheryl Weigand
Erin Wilkins
Senior Sales and Market Development Manager (HPE/Advanced Solutions) at Ingram Micro Inc
Edward Flammer II
Director of Golf Category at New Era
*Alumni listed with only their names have not been updated in our records
ComLead Through the Years
PROFESSOR Highlight: NEIL MELBROD
Courses:
Fundraising and Development Seminar in Nonprofit Management
Years:
2006 - 2014
What was your favorite part about working with the OCD/ComLead Department?
Helping the students advance in their career
Where are you now?
Retired!
What does the word “legacy� mean to you?
What has been left behind for others
What is one thing you wish to leave behind for others to learn from?
That one can have a rewarding career in the nonprofit world that will not only be self-fulfilling, but will help many deserving causes
HOW HAS COMLEAD HELPED YOU? The courses taught through the OCD program at the time were so valuable to all professional work environments. I most often refer to my Persuasion and Social Influence class taught by Dr. Wanzer and I can see how Cialdini’s 6 principles are used all around us. I really enjoyed all the Organizational Behavior classes. – Lisa Roy, 2001
The education I received helped me start and build my company (Developing Professionals) to what it is today. – Lori Miller, 2000
Appreciated the academic rigor of the thesis. It made me more precise in my communication. – Don Fest, 2005
I manage a large team with associates in Buffalo, in remote home offices around the country and our office overseas. Communication is beyond critical to our daily success and many of the skills I gained during my time in the program I apply to our business daily whether it be general day-to-day communication, formal presentations, business research, human resources, etc. – Erin Wilkins, 2000
The ComLead program has allowed me to focus all relationships, whether professional or personal, on effective communication as I believe that is the root of all conflict and resolution. – Rebecca Spillman (Ballaron), 2010
Hiring, managing, millennial, coordinating and motivating employees, and in communicating our mission, vision, values internally and externally. – Michael Caputi, 2004
The ComLead program has been invaluable to me in my career, without this degree I wouldn’t be in the position I am in now. Spending nearly a year researching and writing my thesis was excellent practice for the daily research and writing that goes into the process of responding to grant requests. – Kathryn Mendola, 2011
Better understand the development of both my position and a bigger picture with the organization in which I work. – Tracy Rozewicz, 2004
It was instrumental in supporting my career goals. – Raymond Konieczek, 2004
HOW HAS COMLEAD HELPED YOU? I made connections and learned from mentors, particularly through a valuable internship at First Niagara that was afforded to me through ComLead. This experience then helped me land the dream job I have today. – Sarah Warner, 2016 My degree has attributed to my success career and continues to help me take on new challenges each year. – Julie Berrigan, 2013
The program not only increased my communication and presentation skills, but it also increased my confidence as a leader. – Irma Tyszko, 2014
Every class I took in The ComLead program gave me new tools to add to my arsenal and I have used those tools and skills in both my personal and professional life. The two courses that had the largest impact though would have to be Leadership and Conflict Management. – Emily Gumkowski, 2017
I develop training material for representatives on a daily basis I tap into the communication I learned everyday. – Melissa Cope (Feron), 2016
The ComLead Program taught me confidence in myself and my professional abilities. – Courtney Sullivan, 2017
I would not be where I am today without ComLead. First and foremost it gave me the tools to learn the ins and outs of fundraising and development while helping to sharpen my communication and leadership skills. I used these lessons as a professional to better navigate the working world, understand and work better with colleagues, better goal set and lead a team, and keep my purpose my main focus. – Matt Gorczyca, 2015
It has helped me develop my community and fear of public speaking. - Alexa Valdez, 2019
It has helped me build a network of young professionals that I can reach out to for ideas, guidance, and support. - Elizabeth Somerville, 2019
The ComLead program has provided invaluable insight into development and fundraising. I use the information learned in my non-profit courses at my place of employment to maximize our fundraising efforts. I love applying theory to real-world experiences. - David Goodwin, 2019
ComLead Through the Years
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Elizabeth Somerville Elizabeth Somerville is in her final semester of the Communication and Leadership program. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Pittsburgh and currently works as ________ at M&T Bank. She was directed to Canisius’ ComLead program by her manager and found that the program held a more holistic study and offered skills that would be transferable to her area of work. Last year, she was awarded a position as a member of Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit and University honor society based on academics, loyalty to Jesuit values, and service to others. To apply for the honor society, Elizabeth submitted an application on her employment history, community service activities, as well as an essay on her major volunteer activities that reflect Jesuit values and the college’s mission to serve others. In her essay, Elizabeth focused on her involvement with the NativityMiguel Middle School, an organization where she serves on a committee and regularly volunteers. Elizabeth became involved with the NativityMiguel Middle School (NMMS) in 2014 when her manager asked if she would be interested in assisting with a silent auction at the school’s annual fundraiser. NMMS is a faith based middle school that supports underserved children. Elizabeth has taken part in the annual Scholars Awards Dinner every year since her introduction to NMMS. Since 2016, she has been an active member of the Scholars Awards Committee which meets throughout the year to plan for the annual event. The funds that are raised at the Scholars Awards Dinner are an essential portion of the school’s operating budget, and she is able to use her experiences and skills to help continually increase the funds raised at the event. In addition to her involvement in the planning and execution of the Scholars Awards Dinner, Elizabeth also tutors at the St. Monica Campus for Girls. She works with girls to help them feel more comfortable, confident, and prepared to take their high school entrance exams. As part of her graduate coursework, Elizabeth worked in a small group to develop a formalized and sustainable volunteer program for NMMA through ComLead’s Leadership course. Through collaboration, the group was able to provide the school with resources and recommendations for an improved volunteer program. Elizabeth’s involvement with NMMS supports the Jesuit principles of care for the whole person and social justice. It also helps her to work towards her goal of human excellence. Elizabeth feels very strongly that participating in community service is the right thing to do. By joining Alpha Sigma Nu, she has become more aware of the importance of Jesuit values and service to her personal wellbeing and to society as a whole, and she currently serves on the NativityMiguel Junior Board.
ComLead Through the Years
COMLEAD FALL MEET & GREET
ComLead alumni and current students were invited to enjoy refreshments, chocolates, and an informational session on fair trade at Ten Thousand Villages Buffalo on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Discussion was led by 20__? alumnus, Jennifer Kilo, who now serves as the Store Manager for this location. Ten Thousand Villages is a fair trade, global maker-to-market movement that sells ethically-sourced items from makers in “ten thousand villages”. Purchases made through this organization are handmade and all sales directly impact the life and community of their makers in developing countries.
Mission:
“We create opportunities for artisans in developing countries to earn income by bringing their products and stories to our markets through long-term, fair trading relationships.”
Stanton Hudson
Stanton Hudson
Director of Organizational Communication and Development Program 1995 - 2004
Director of Organizational Communication and Development Program 1995 - 2004
Stanton Hudson acted as the Director of the Organizational Communication and Development program (now ComLead) at Canisius College from 1995 to 2004. Dr. Irwin and Dr. Wigley worked hard to develop the program and get it up and running, and Dr. Irwin served as the Director of the program until Hudson joined in January of 1995. In his position, Hudson managed the program and owes a lot of credit to Nancy Prescott who assisted in keeping and organizing the records with him.
Second, Hudson touched on the enduring legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt. The Inaugural Site works to tell Roosevelt’s story, including the story of the major issues that existed in his head as he took oath in Buffalo in 1901. These issues included racial and social inequality, immigration and poverty, environmental conservation, and US and global affairs. While this moment in history took place 118 years ago, these issues are still present today!
Ironically, Hudson did not have his Master’s degree at the time that he was hired as Director of the Graduate program so he did not teach any of the courses, but oversaw it, recruited professors, planned the year, and kept organization of everyone involved. Hudson also facilitated the Capstone project where he worked individually with students to advise and counsel them through the process. During this time, and prior to his appointment as Director, Hudson taught PR courses at the undergraduate level.
Third, about a year ago the TR Site applied for a grant from the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. This grant was requested to help pilot a project that would develop a program for underserved fourth graders in the Buffalo Public School district. This program will work to integrate and educate these students on the unique connection that exists between Buffalo, Roosevelt, and the great history of the United States. The TR Site received the grant that they requested and Hudson soon discovered a sentimental twist - the fund with which the TR Site was awarded the money from was The Perry Fund. This fund was named in honor of Dr. J Warren Perry and his brother and only ten organizations were eligible to apply for it. The fact that the TR Site was awarded the grant from Hudson’s mentor further enhanced his belief in Dr. Perry’s legacy and how that legacy has continued to impact him over the years.
Hudson achieved his Bachelor’s degree from Canisius College in History and Political Science in 1972. He got involved in the world of PR when he was working for a County Legislator. There he developed experience in writing news releases and speeches and decided to pursue a career in PR where he could use those skills. Hudson worked in PR and advertising for over 40 years. He served as the PR Director at M&T Bank and the Advertising and PR Director at BlueCross BlueShield of WNY. Throughout his time in the world of PR, Hudson continued to teach as that was something that he always had a deep love for.
In addition, there is no better life to live to create a legacy than that of a teacher. Teachers have the ability to touch the lives of students in ways that will make the world a better place when done correctly. Hudson expressed how incredible it feels when a former student achieves success in life and he is grateful to have played a part in that individual’s growth. His life as a teacher has been a great joy, and Hudson encourages any students with which he has lost touch with to reach out to him and be his guest at the TR Site.
Currently, he is the Executive Director of the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site in Buffalo, NY. In addition, he teaches in the Communication department at Buffalo State College while also finishing up courses of his own. With just his thesis left, Hudson is proud to report that he will achieve his Master’s degree at 68 years old, proving that it is never too late to continue to learn!
To close, Hudson left me with a quote that Dr. Perry loved and lived out each day:
“Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile” And to Stan Hudson, that is what legacy is all about.
Hudson achieved his Bachelor’s degree from Canisius College in History and Political Science in 1972. After working for a County Legislator, Hudson developed experience in writing news releases and speeches and decided to pursue a career in Public Relations. He worked in PR and advertising for over 40 years, where he held positions as the PR Director at M&T Bank and the Advertising and PR Director at BlueCross BlueShield of WNY, and more. Throughout this time, Hudson continued to teach as he always had a deep passion for educating others. When asked what the word “legacy” means to him, Hudson had three points that he wanted to mention. First, he explained his relationship with a very important person in his life: J Warren Perry. Dr. Perry was the Dean of Health Professions at University at Buffalo and a role model for Hudson. He encouraged Hudson to get involved in different boards such as the American Red Cross and the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site. Through those experiences, Hudson would develop larger networks and experience in working in the Non-profit sector. In 2011, Hudson was appointed President of the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site board, one year after Dr. Perry passed away. Having had such an influence in his pursuit of opportunities in different organizations, Hudson knew that he would not have acquired that position without Dr. Perry.
www.TRSITE.ORG
ComLead Through the Years
LEGACY LEGACY LEGACY LEGACY Thank you for being a part of the Communication and Leadership legacy!