As I reflect on this past year, my second as a member of the Canisius family and our first as Canisius University, three powerful themes emerge: resilience, purpose and hope. These intertwined qualities have not only defined our past but will undoubtedly shape our future.
Resilience is woven into the very fabric of our great university and we need not look further than the Class of 2024 to find a fitting example of that trait. As you will read in this edition of Canisius Magazine, the Class of 2024 faced unprecedented challenges— a global pandemic, economic uncertainty and societal upheavals— and they showed resolve, adaptability and ultimately emerged stronger. But resilience alone is not enough, it must be combined with a reason to overcome the seemingly intractable issues and that is where purpose is implicated.
At Canisius, our purpose is clear: to change our world by providing a transformative education defined by a holistic, person-centered approach, which empowers our students to lead lives of purpose. It is that mission, that purpose, which guides us in everything we do. It is a purpose, noble in every regard, that emanates from our centuries old Jesuit tradition and consistent with the very core of our identity. It is our raison d’être and it inspires every member of our community—Golden Griffins near and far—to be bold and aspirational, channeling their passions into meaningful change for the greater Glory.
It is our collective clarity of purpose that gives me great hope for the future of our beloved Canisius and for every community, city and country that our Golden Griffins call home. The challenges we have encountered, and continue to face, reveal our true mettle. Forged in that fire, we have learned that we are capable of more than we ever imagined possible. We have discovered new strengths, built deeper connections and recommitted anew to our values. In this spirit, let us continue to support one another, to strive for excellence in all we do and to be beacons of light in a world that needs it. Our individual and collective hope will comfort us along this journey toward a brighter, more compassionate future.
As we endeavor to Answer the Call, I am filled with profound gratitude: to our students, who inspire us with their resilience and idealism; to our faculty and staff, whose dedication knows no bounds; to our alumni and friends, whose generosity fuels our mission; and to all who believe in the transformative power of a Canisius education.
Looking ahead, I am confident that the resilience we’ve cultivated, the purpose we pursue, and the hope we hold will propel us forward. Our world continues to call out to us and we will dare to answer with unwavering resolve and hope because we are Canisius University.
Stoute
Contributing Writers
Mary Ellen Bakowski 85, MBA ’ 90
Brandon T. Bielecki 15, MS 19
Martin J. Haumesser
Jessica M. Mitrovits
Sarah J. Sterzinger ’18, MS ’21
Photography Brianna Blank ’14
Tom Wolf ’86
We are eager to hear your comments about Canisius Magazine.
Pomp and Circumstance
Former U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins delivered the commencement address to Canisius University’s 2024 undergraduate and graduate classes, during ceremonies on May 18.
Higgins became president and chief operating officer of Shea’s Performing Arts Center in February following a nearly two-decade career in the House of Representatives. During that time, he targeted initiatives that addressed the needs and leveraged the strengths of Western New York. His leadership in securing a $279 million federal relicensing settlement made possible the redevelopment of Buffalo’s waterfront. Cancer research and infrastructure projects saw a major boost in federal investments through Higgins’ efforts on the Budget and Ways and Means committees. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State University and a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. Canisius conferred an honorary doctorate degree upon Higgins during commencement ceremonies.
The university honored Buffalo Bills safety Damar R. Hamlin for his efforts to bring life-saving skills and tools to people and organizations around the world. Through his Chasing M’s Foundation, Hamlin has equipped more than 1,200 individuals with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, provided 170 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to communities in need and catalyzed legislative change in 12 states.
Making the Grade School of Education, Wehle School Score High in U.S. News Ratings
The Richard J. Wehle School of Business and the School of Education and Human Services both clinched prime spots on U.S. News & World Report’s latest rankings.
According to the publication’s list of “Best Graduate Schools,” the Wehle School is in the top 25 percent among AACSBaccredited schools, nationwide. The graduate business program also lands at No. 1 among private schools in Western New York.
Meantime, the School of Education earned high marks in the category for “Best Online Master’s in Education Programs.” Canisius climbed 54 spots to No. 88, earning a place among the top 100 programs in the nation. The ranking also puts the university at No. 4 in New York State and No. 1 in Western New York.
Brian M. Murphy ’95 Elected Chair, Board of Trustees
The Canisius University Board of Trustees elected Brian M. Murphy ’95 chair of the institution’s governing body. Murphy will serve a three-year term, which became effective July 1.
The university also conferred honorary degrees upon Mary Wilson and Damar R. Hamlin.
Canisius honored Wilson for her philanthropic legacy as a life trustee of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, which invests millions to improve the quality of life in Western New York. Wilson is also a generous supporter of the university, overseeing the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Sports Scholarship Fund, which awards annual scholarships to student athletes.
Baumet Named New VP for Finance and Administration
Canisius University welcomed Robert L. Baumet as its new vice president for finance and administration on May 15. Responsible for audit, facilities, information technology services and business services, Baumet brings to the position more than three decades of financial experience in non-profit and public higher education.
He comes to Canisius from Keuka College where, as chief financial officer, he oversaw the offices of Finance and Accounting, Financial Aid, Student Accounts, Human Resources and Facilities. He previously was director of business services, accounting director and director of foundation accounting for Buffalo State University.
Baumet holds a master’s degree in accountancy from the State University of New York at Utica (SUNY Polytechnic).
“I am deeply honored to be elected chair of the Canisius University Board of Trustees,” says Murphy. “As an alumnus of this esteemed institution, my dedication runs deep and I am committed to leveraging that passion, along with my professional and community leadership experience, to uphold Canisius’ legacy while embracing opportunities for the future.”
Murphy is partner at Lawley LLC, a full-service, independent insurance agency, where he oversees the growth, service and operations of Lawley’s Employee Benefits Division, which is comprised of more than 130 employees. In addition, Murphy offers consultative services to large employers, specializing in comprehensive benefits assessment, cost-control strategies, compliance and legislative guidance, self-funding across all benefit plans, and the complexities of benefits administration solutions. Since earning his marketing degree from Canisius in 1995, Murphy has remained a loyal and engaged alumnus. Most notably, he served five years (2014-19) as a member of the Canisius University Board of Regents. Murphy is also a past member of the Richard J. Wehle School of Business Advisory Council, was a guest speaker for the “How to Be a Great Leader” series, hosted by the university’s Center for Professional Development, and is former co-chair for the institution’s Blue & Gold Gala.
Murphy succeeds Martin J. Berardi ’79 as chair of the Board of Trustees.
Griffs Score New Leaders for Men's, Women's Basketball Programs
The Golden Griffins are gearing up for an exciting new era of basketball with the appointments of two new head coaches. Jim Christian stepped in as the 25th head coach of the men’s basketball program on April 8. Tiffany Swoffard became the 11th head coach in the history of the women’s program, when Canisius introduced her on April 17.
Christian brings nearly two decades of NCAA Division I head coaching experience to Canisius. In his most recent stop at Kent State, he was part of the Golden Flashes staff that led the team to 45 victories and a pair of MidAmerican Conference Championship game appearances. In 2022-23, Kent State won 28 games and secured the conference’s automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament.
Before joining Kent State, Christian was head coach at Boston College from (2014-21). His best season came in 2017-18, when he guided the Eagles to a 19-win season; the most victories by the men’s basketball team since 2010-11.
Exploring the Everglades
New course immerses students in ecology and self
A new immersion course is bringing students face-to-face with endangered species while studying the ecosystem of the Florida Everglades.
Ecology and Self takes students to the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. where “they tent-camp, hike, snorkel and explore the unique ecology of the Everglades,” says Adjunct Professor of Environmental Studies Jonathan M. Roth. “Along the way, students learn about themselves and their place in caring for our common home,” adds Psychology Professor Jennifer Lodi-Smith, PhD. She and Roth co-teach the course, which immerses students in the costal prairie and saltwork marsh ecosystem, has them
wade through the forested wetland plant community that makes up the cypress domes, and canoe through the mangrove-lined Buttonwood Canal. Throughout these excursions and others, students identified more than 230 species of plants and animals including the endangered Smalltooth sawfish.
“Each day was a new adventure and a new chance to see something that most have not previously seen,” recalls environmental studies major Olivia M. Coleman ’27. “We learned that every living thing has its job to keep the ecosystem alive and well, and it was amazing to see.”
Ecology and Self is open to students of all majors.
Tiffany Swoffard is a long-time assistant coach who boasts 14 years of NCAA Division I experience. Her coaching journey has taken Swoffard through both Power 5 and mid-major programs. She takes over the Canisius bench after spending the 2023-24 season with the Penn State women’s basketball coaching staff, helping to lead the Nittany Lions to their first 20-win season since 2016-17.
Prior to Penn State, Swoffard spent four seasons as assistant coach at Miami (Ohio) in the MidAmerican Conference, serving also as the team’s offensive and recruiting coordinator.
Unraveling Cuba’s Rich Tapestry
Richard Reitsma, PhD, provides a nuanced perspec tive of the island nation
Against a backdrop of diplomatic complexities, Richard D. Reitsma, PhD, led students and alumni on an extraordinary study abroad experience to the Republic of Cuba.
Comprised largely of open-air classes, the Canisius contingent went on guided tours of Old Havana, visited the former presidential palace that is now the Museum of the Revolution and toured the home of American novelist and Nobel Prize winner Ernest Hemingway. During stopovers in Trinidad, Matanzas and Santa Clara, the group learned about Cuban slavery, the influence of Africa on Cuban language, cuisine and cultural practices, and the economy.
“The purpose was to provide participants with a richer understanding of language, culture, religion and history of Cuba, and what the
Cuban Revolution accomplished for the country and what still needs to change,” explains Reitsma, chair of the Spanish Department. He and Davide Salvo, PhD, adjunct professor of classics, organized and led the trip.
Study reveals sustained positive outcomes of schoolMAX and summerMAX
New research conducted by the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) unveiled promising long-term outcomes for autistic youth who participate in its intervention programs.
The study, published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, confirms the efficacy of the IAR’s school social intervention (schoolMAX) and summer social intervention (summerMAX) in delivering sustained positive outcomes.
To determine whether intervention gains are short-lived or maintained over time, lead researchers Marcus L. Thomeer, PhD, Jonathan D. Rodgers, PhD and Christopher Lopata, PsyD, took advantage of a prior large-scale school study in which 103 autistic children (without intellectual disability), ages 7-12, were randomly assigned to receive either schoolMAX or their typical educational program during the school year followed by summerMAX.
A total of 90 youth from the original study participated in the 12-month follow-up study, which revealed that schoolMAX and summerMAX produced largely comparable and sustained improvements over an extended timeframe.
“This is one of the largest and longest follow-up studies of social intervention outcomes ever conducted for this population,” notes Lopata. “The findings provide strong evidence that both school MAX and summerMAX are effective in improving short- and longer-term performance of these youth.”
The study was funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences Grants.
Celebrating Excellence
Susan W. Margulis, PhD, receives Distinguished Faculty Award
The Canisius University Alumni Association recognized Professor Susan W. Margulis, PhD, with its 2024 Kenneth L. Koessler Distinguished Faculty Award. The annual accolade recognizes a professor who exemplifies teaching excellence and contributes significantly to the academic community.
A professor of biology, and animal behavior, ecology and conservation (ABEC), Margulis teaches students that the world is their classroom. In doing so, she makes a world of difference as an educator and scholar.
Margulis played a pivotal role in the development of Canisius’ popular anthrozoology major, its new master’s program in informal education and interpretation, and its minors in conservation and environmental sustainability.
Described as “an innovative and caring educator,” she fosters an abundant number of firsthand learning opportunities for students. Each semester, Margulis accompanies them to locations, in the U.S. and abroad, to enrich their education through immersive experiences at zoos, aquariums and field sites as far away as South Africa. Her passion for primatology attracts a regular influx of undergraduate students, eager to be part of Team Ape, the research group she directs at The Buffalo Zoo.
Margulis’ contributions as an educator are paralleled only by her work as a scholar.
She is the author of more than 40 peer-reviewed articles, eight industry publications and book chapters, and most recently co-edited a volume titled “Exploring Animal Behavior in Laboratory and Field.” Margulis also mentors the next generation in scholarship, guiding students as they co-author publications and presentations for esteemed audiences such as the Society of Animal Behavior.
New Leadership for Wehle School of Business
Canisius taps Shawn O’Rourke, PhD, to serve as dean
The spring semester saw Canisius University appoint Shawn O’Rourke, PhD, as the new dean of the Richard J. Wehle School of Business. O’Rourke has served as interim dean since August 2023 and proven himself a collaborative leader, earning high praise from faculty and the business community alike.
As dean, O’Rourke is responsible for building on the established strength of the business school, fostering current partnerships and developing new collaborations within the business community, and advancing academic excellence through outstanding teaching, scholarship and service.
He brings to the position more than 25 years of experience as an educator, administrator and scholar across Canada, the United States and Europe. At Canisius, O’Rourke developed and served as director of the university’s undergraduate program in sport management and graduate programs in sport administration and sport product development, the latter of which was one of only two such programs in the country when it launched in 2018. All three programs are consistently ranked among the best in the nation and produce graduates who secure successful careers at the intercollegiate and amateur levels and in professional sports.
A 2022 recipient of the Alumni Association’s Distinguished Faculty Award, O’Rourke is revered by students for his “professional,
pragmatic and creative approach in the classroom” and evenly commended for “empowering them to act as servant leaders.”
O’Rourke holds a bachelor’s degree from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, ON; a master’s degree in sport management from the University of Richmond; and a PhD in organizational effectiveness from The Ohio State University. His scholarship is focused in the areas of organizational effectiveness, and leadership and management education.
IN MEMORIAM
Joseph F. Bieron ’59, MS ’61, PhD
Professor, Chemistry
December 14, 2023
Raymound J. Clough, PhD
Emeritus Professor, Modern Languages
Director, Center for Teaching Excellence
June 30, 2022
Richard E. Stanton, PhD
Emeritus Professor, Chemistry
August 23, 2023
Richard J. Thompson, PhD
Emeritus Professor, English
October 15, 2023
C ANISIUS UNIVERSITY’S
CLASS OF 2024 IS A S TUDY
IN HOW TRIBULATIONS ARE ONLY PART OF THE TRIUMPH.
There are moments that just stand out. On Saturday, May 18, the Canisius University Class of 2024 gathered for two commencement ceremonies honoring the College of Arts and Sciences in the morning, and the School of Education and Human Services and the Wehle School of Business in the afternoon.
Every class is special in its own way, but this one stands out. For one, they are the first to graduate from Canisius University since the institution’s promotion in August 2023. But it is the circumstances in which these students arrived at this moment that make them extraordinary.
COMING
Story by: Andrew Coddington ’13
Photos: Tom Wolf Imaging
COMMENCEMENT CANCELED
For the Class of 2024, their academic career was shaped by a very different moment. For almost all the undergraduate students, March 2020 inaugurated their final semester of high school. Many looked forward to prom, graduation and the other traditions associated with senior spring.
Then, on March 11, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Schools, businesses and organizations nationwide and around the world transitioned to remote learning, working and living. The world changed almost overnight – for a couple weeks, tops. Then a couple months. Then more.
The pandemic was something that everyone went through together, each in their own way. For many in the Class of 2024, they lost the opportunity to close the chapter on one of the most significant periods of their lives in the way they deserved.
“I remember watching the news every day from home wondering, am I ever going to go back to school?” says Jahare Hudson, a member of the Class of 2024 and two-term president of the Undergraduate Student Association. “They said that this was only going to be temporary, that we will be able to have our graduation... Four years of hard work – and then it never came.”
Hudson characterizes the experience of many of his fellow students when they received the news: “It sucked.”
Hudson’s high school, like others, tried to make do, hosting a “drive-by” graduation where families gathered in the parking lot (but had to stay in their cars), then another where students were allowed to separately approach a table to receive their diploma.
Hudson describes being handed a bag containing the certificates and awards he had earned – mixed in with the contents of his locker.
Students who came from different schools felt the same anticlimax.
Hawa Saleh, an honors student, says, “I never felt like I graduated high school. I never got that opportunity to say bye. … Everything that I had been looking forward to got stripped away from me.”
PREPARATION AND ANTICIPATION
In the hour before Canisius’ commencement ceremonies, the graduates’ parents, friends and other guests presented their tickets at the door, then found their seats under the sweeping blue-andgold banners draped from the ceiling beams. Their scuffling feet, recrossing legs and thumbing through the program again and again betrayed their nervousness, as if this whole thing might yet again be called off at the last minute.
Backstage, the graduates were more relaxed.
Standing before a series of full-length mirrors propped along the walls, they helped each other into their gowns, donning hoods, tassels and medals that they had earned.
Some took selfies with Petey, the school's golden griffin mascot, or the large marquee arranged in the corner, “CANISIUS 2024” spelled out in lights. They had made it this far.
I think at Canisius, students challenge each other to be the best versions of themselves.
- Mason Bowes -
Many observed the tradition of decorating mortarboards. The messages ranged from the political (the war in Gaza) to the farcical (“Psyched to be done with this BS,” “What, like it’s hard?”); from the hopeful (“Future DVM all for them,” accompanied by pictures of beloved pets) to the grateful (“Thank you to the angels smiling above,” “I’m standing here because you helped me find my way”).
A few of the School of Education grads highlighted their formal professional titles: “Miss Fiorella,” complete with a heart filled with the signatures of her elementary students.
When the call came to prepare to process, they strode forward as one.
How a student enters college is pivotal. According to U.S. News & World Report, most students who drop out of college do so their first year. Many in the Class of 2024 entered with a dissatisfying conclusion to high school, with fear and confusion around health and safety protocols, against the backdrop of that first pandemic winter.
Saleh, who is Yemeni-American and a first-generation college student, had already worried about being an outsider. When she arrived on campus, Saleh viscerally remembers one of her first classes, a history course that was one of few to take place in person. Social distancing requirements placed students individually at long tables intended for two partners. “I would always look to my left or my right and think, this should be a person,” she says, feeling as if there was “a huge gulf” between her and her classmates.
Though masking policies were deemed necessary to protect safety, they also anonymized and exacerbated the awkwardness of participating in class. Saleh, thoughtful and soft-spoken, joined the class late, and so sat toward the back, where she would “have to scream” to be heard. She wondered, if she missed class, would her absence even be noticed? “The lack of existence became our normal,” she says.
It was in that class that hope started to shine through for Saleh. The class had landed – in that digressive way that classes do –on the topic of cedar trees. Another student mentioned that there were trees from the very period that they were discussing still growing in parts of Lebanon. Saleh recalls thinking, “there’s no
way a girl knows something so niche she’s not Lebanese. Maybe I can connect with her on our Arab identities. I went up to her after class, and we walked over to Tim Hortons and we talked. She’s my best friend now.”
For Mason Bowes, another honors student and one of a handful of students graduating with a perfect GPA, the pandemic would not squash the excitement of moving into his campus residence. Though his classes were online, and on-campus events were still off, Bowes says that most of his considerable free time was spent connecting with other residents. Bowes, who describes himself as an introvert, realized that the same social anxiety he felt everyone was now feeling.
“Coming to Canisius was a way to reject that isolation and fear that I felt,” he says. “I remember the first day that I moved in freshman year, I just went around knocking on peoples’ doors and introducing myself, like, ‘Hi, I’m Mason.’ It was interesting how much of a fresh start COVID was for me because I was able to become a new person in a lot of ways.”
Bowes and his floormates would pass the time studying together, then watching movies and playing games. “I don’t like throwing the word ‘family’ around because it brings a lot of connotations,” he says. “[But] when I think of other schools, I think of competition to be better than other people. I think at Canisius, students challenge each other to be the best versions of themselves.”
“No one’s ever tried to put another student down,” he adds.
Mason Bowes
Hawa Saleh
In addition to the Class of 2024, Canisius also conferred honorary degrees upon Mary Wilson, life trustee of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation and a tireless supporter of Western New York, as well as Brian Higgins, former member of Congress and current president and CEO of Buffalo’s historic Shea’s Performing Arts Center, who gave the address. Although he did not address the class, the presence of another honoree, Damar Hamlin, spoke as loudly to their spirit. There are few who don’t know the Buffalo Bills safety’s story. At 8:55 p.m. on January 2, 2023, Hamlin experienced cardiac arrest after making a tackle during Monday Night Football. Medical staff tended to Hamlin on the field, administering defibrillation and CPR for 19 minutes, before he was transported to the hospital in critical condition.
No one could have known then where Hamlin’s story would go from there. Not only did the 24-year-old make a full recovery, announcing his return to the game in April 2023, he also became one of the highest profile advocates for heart health and youth sports safety. His CPR Tour has equipped more than 1,200 individuals with life-saving emergency medical training, provided 170 AEDs to communities in need and spurred youth sports safety legislation in 12 states.
“The only choice I had was to be strong,” he says, trading his blue-and-red Bills uniform with a black cap and gown. “One moment doesn’t define you, you know? You have to keep putting that right foot in front of the left. … No matter what goes on, no matter what hurdles come your way, just keep going.”
Rising above the adversity of a moment isn’t the only thing that Hamlin – now Dr. – shares with the Class of 2024.
“I graduated college in 2020. I listened to my graduation on a Zoom call while I was working out, so I never truly got that experience,” he says. “I always wanted to have a graduation. To be here getting an honorary doctorate is further than a dream come true. To just be here, being able to do the full cap-and-gown thing, it’s an honor.”
I graduated college in 2020. I listened to my graduation on a Zoom call while I was working out, so I never truly got that experience.
- Damar Hamlin -
-
That’s when I finally got what the Canisius spirit was... a feeling of aliveness, of fun, of grace… It’s everything we associate with being a Griff.
-
S PRING AGAIN
Things started to change for the Class of 2024 after that pandemic winter – and not only that, but the class started to change things themselves. Hudson recalls that by the second year, when health and safety protocols started to loosen, “It was time to explore, to meet new people, to see what’s going on on campus.” This was around the time when Hudson first ran for president in a contested election.
The campaign marked a turning point for Hudson and the student body. After a long hibernation, they were hungry.
“That’s when I finally got what the Canisius spirit was,” Hudson says, describing it as “a feeling of aliveness, of fun, of grace… It’s everything we associate with being a Griff.” Students started showing up, meeting each other and sharing their ideas. “This is what Canisius has to offer when there isn’t a pandemic holding us back,” Hudson says.
In the following years, the class proved indomitable, reinvigorating the community and reshaping the institution for the better. In his two terms, Hudson took the Undergraduate Student Association, which had withered during the pandemic, and rebuilt it into the United Student Association, representing both undergraduates
and the school’s growing graduate student population for the first time. He also worked to introduce programming and mentorship for the next generation of student leaders who would take over, making sure that the momentum the class had fought so hard to generate would sustain. Genevieve Fontana, who had transferred to Canisius after experiencing poor mental health as a result of isolation at her first school, launched a media series that brought awareness to individuals and departments advancing sustainability throughout the institution, working to break down the silos that had built up as a result of the pandemic. She also chaired the student sustainability committee, started the on-campus thrift store and was active in the community garden. Saleh changed majors, completed three new majors, and published and presented articles in national honors society magazines and gatherings, as well as finding time to mentor fellow students in the writing center. Glimpsing individual accomplishments gives only a sense of their incredible collective impact.
If there’s one theme that carries through this class’ accomplishments, it’s finding – their confidence, their paths, their communities, their places, their voices, themselves.
‘PLAN A HAS BEEN A-ING’
The resilience, compassion and strength demonstrated by the Class of 2024 were echoed in the addresses delivered by the commencement speakers: Jayseana Jackson, who spoke in the morning, and Hannah Hamilton, who spoke in the afternoon. Working in a format often criticized for its platitudes, they offered fresh insights based on lived experiences.
Hamilton, who graduated with a master’s in special education and childhood education, shared how love is the wellspring for change.
A teacher herself, she keeps a list of teachers stretching back to kindergarten as a reminder of people who had shaped her at some point. She describes it as “a technique to honor people who have made positive ripples,” a theme of her speech (and something she borrowed from her “hippy parents,” she says with a smirk, alluding to the Grateful Dead song “Ripples”). “We are so capable of starting these movements, creating positive change.”
AT LAST
Commencement day proceeded like many others before: the robes, tassels, medals and mortarboards; the procession, pomp and circumstance; above all the swelling cheers, hugs and tears of gathered family, friends and loved ones. For the graduates, many of whom waited eight years for a celebration like this, they wouldn’t have had it any other way.
The graduates took the stairs in turn, sharing the stage with a former congressman, a professional football player or a
Jackson spoke to this moment in time at the intersection of a challenging past and a wide-open future.
“We are not our past or who we used to be,” she said. “We are who we’re going to be.” It’s a message that Jackson, who grew up in the foster care system on Buffalo’s historically underserved East Side, is uniquely qualified to share. Having experienced firsthand the difference that caring people can make in a young person’s life, she’s determined to use her upcoming education at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School to advocate for kids in the system.
“I’m very persistent,” she says. “When I want something, I have to get it. I only have a plan A.” Reflecting on her journey, from her experiences in the foster system to connecting with mentors to attending her first-choice college and now heading to law school, she says: “Plan A has been A-ing.”
philanthropist leading a billion-dollar foundation, university leadership, esteemed scholars, writers, educators and businesspeople. But for every step that they took from one end to the other, each moment was theirs, and it could not be taken away.
The Canisius Class of 2024 will always be linked by their experience. Hundreds of individual paths brought them here, and they go off on as many new ones. But on this spring day they all came together for a moment.
Hannah Hamilton
Jayseana Jackson
Jahare Hudson
Jahare Hudson
Donor Support Fuels President’s Innovation Fund
Investments will help propel Canisius toward brighter future
The philanthropic spirit of Canisius supporters is helping to pave the way for new and novel initiatives across campus.
President Steve K. Stoute announced this spring that the university will invest $1 million over the next five years toward the creation of a competitive grant program designed to “unleash the power of innovation.” The President’s Innovation Fund supports original and inventive concepts and practices that have the potential to advance the university’s strategic agenda and achieve positive outcomes for students.
The idea for the fund originated in 2023, when Canisius invited alumni and friends to make unrestricted gifts to the institution in support of initiatives that had the greatest potential to move the university forward. “The response has been overwhelming,” says President Stoute. “Nothing of significance is accomplished alone and therefore I am beyond grateful to those donors who have committed to the President’s Innovation Fund. Their investment will impact Canisius University in meaningful ways.”
Faculty and staff are eligible to submit proposals to the President’s Innovation Fund. Selected applications must demonstrate creativity and ingenuity, and foster academic excellence and innovation as outlined in the first pillar of the university’s strategic plan.
“As noted in the preamble to Answer the Call, our Jesuit tradition is one of action in response to signs of the times,” continues President Stoute. “I am incredibly excited to see how our campus community will act, in collaboration, to push the boundaries of traditional thinking and help propel Canisius toward a brighter future.”
To make a gift to the President’s Innovation Fund, scan the QR code.
Donor Profile
Philanthropic support from Larry E. Manth ’87 promotes innovation at Canisius University
In a time where innovation is the key to success, Canisius alumnus Larry E. Manth ’87 is helping to ignite a new wave of creativity and progress with a generous contribution to the President’s Innovation Fund. Rooted in a deep admiration for President Steve Stoute and his visionary leadership, Manth’s philanthropic support signifies an important investment in the future of the university and its students.
“Having a strategic agenda and looking at ways to reshape Canisius for the future is critical to attracting top students and faculty,” Manth says.
A retired partner with Meritage Financial Partners LLC, Manth graduated from Canisius with an accounting degree and embarked on a successful career in accounting and finance. He gained experience with such distinguished firms as Arthur Young (now Ernst & Young) and Deloitte Haskins & Sells (now Deloitte). Manth went on to receive an MBA from the University of Chicago and worked briefly in investment banking before he joined the Los Angeles offices of Deloitte and then KPMG, serving as partner at both firms.
Reflecting on his time at Canisius, Manth attests to the impact his college education had on his career trajectory.
“I was given the tools necessary to succeed in my profession and in a rigorous MBA program,” Manth recalls. He notes that many of his classes required “a significant focus and work ethic that he still carries with him almost 40 years later.” Manth similarly commends his professors who “were always willing to spend time after class
answering questions, demonstrating their commitment to the success of their students” and emphasizes the value of the small class sizes, which “fit him well and made for a terrific education.”
The higher education landscape has certainly evolved since Manth was an undergraduate. Many potential students weigh the increased cost of attending college versus entering the workforce without student loan debt. But Manth remains confident that the opportunities and programs to be supported by the President’s Innovation Fund will underscore the value of a Canisius degree and what it provides to students both professionally and personally.
“When I graduated from Canisius, the accounting degree I received was considered the gold standard in Western New York,” concludes Manth. “Canisius has upheld its standards in accounting as well as in other disciplines, thereby giving students a top-notch education. The competitive grant program envisioned by President Stoute for faculty and staff will help to advance the university’s strategic agenda and enhance the academic reputation for which Canisius is known.”
Working together and achieving together are the following members of the advancement team at Canisius University:
Pictured, l-r (row 1) Sandy Miller, assistant vice president for external relations; Dianna Civello, vice president for advancement; AnneMarie Haumesser, EdD, assistant vice president for advancement
(row 2) Robert D. Grant ’19, data specialist, Canisius Fund; Lauren Orlowski, director, Alumni & Constituent Engagement; Jessica Mitrovits, director, Canisius Fund
(row 3) Shannon I. Lyons, advancement coordinator; Sarah Sterzinger ’18, MS ’21 assistant director, Alumni & Constituent Engagement
(row 5) Sharon Federico, director, advancement services; Brandon Bielecki ’15, MS ’19, director, advancement; Mary Ellen Bakowski ’85, MBA ’90 director, Legacy Giving & Stewardship
Canisius Welcomes New Additions to the Advancement Team
The Division of Institutional Advancement is strengthening its efforts to support the university’s growth and success under the leadership of President Steve Stoute. In addition to some internal reorganization, the team welcomed several new members, each bringing a wealth of experience in education and philanthropy that will help further Canisius and its mission.
Members of the Institutional Advancement team are pictured (above). Below are the names of those who represent the various offices within the division.
Dianna Civello
Vice President for Advancement
Phone: 716-888-8220, civellod@canisius.edu
AnneMarie Haumesser, EdD
Assistant Vice President for Advancement
Phone: 716-888-8226, haumess1@canisius.edu
Sandy Miller
Assistant Vice President for External Relations Phone: 716-888-8222, mille267@canisius.edu
Mary Ellen Bakowski ’85, MBA ’90
Director of Legacy Giving and Stewardship Phone: 716-888-2235, bakowskm@canisius.edu
Lauren Orlowski
Director of Alumni & Constituent Engagement
Phone: 716-888-2758, orlowskl@canisius.edu
Brandon Bielecki ’15, MS ’19
Director of Advancement
Phone: 716-888-8219, bieleckb@canisius.edu
Jessica Mitrovits
Director of Canisius Fund
Phone: 716-888-2711, mitrovij@canisius.edu
On April 10, 2024, thousands of members of the Canisius community across the globe came together and gave back to support the programs, teams and scholarships that change our students’ lives. Whether it is through hands-on research initiatives, pursuing internships or travel experiences, or providing the best equipment and training opportunities, the impact of Giving Day is real. Additionally, every gift to the Canisius Fund will provide direct institutional aid for students in need so that every student who seeks a Canisius education has the financial support to do so.
Year (decade): 2010s
Andrei Jacobs ’99 engages the nation’s Native communities to help plan America’s 250th birthday celebration
Story by: Martin J. Haumesser
Andrei Jacobs ’99 is listening. And what he hears will help make history.
Jacobs is senior manager of tribal partnerships for America250, a foundation and commission created in Congress to plan and coordinate the celebration of America’s 250th birthday in 2026. In his role, Jacobs works with Native peoples across the country to build and grow awareness of the celebration, and ensure the perspectives of Native Americans, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians are included in the semi-quincentennial commemoration.
“She knew I was Catholic and thought Canisius would be a good fit. That decision really shaped my life,” he recalls. “For the first time I felt challenged and included. It’s where I learned how to connect with people and share perspectives – the same things that come into play in the work I do today.”
Earning a degree in communication studies, Jacobs returned to Alaska and co-founded a company that sold t-shirts featuring Yup’ik words. “We created one shirt featuring the longest word in Yup’ik language, ‘tengsuucecuaraliyukapigtellrunricugnarpenga-qaa’
A MER ICA N SPIRIT
“At America250, I am part of the largest effort ever to honor the contributions of all Americans in the creation of our country and to give everyone a voice in looking toward the future,” Jacobs explains. “My work involves building regional inter-tribal relationships to engage as many representatives as possible from the 574 federally recognized Native nations in the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii. What I hear from them will then inform the events and activities planned from coast to coast.”
In speaking with Jacobs, it’s as if he was born for the job. Jacobs grew up in the small town of Bethel, about 400 miles west of Anchorage, AK. His father is an Alaska native, a member of the Yup’ik and Inupiaq peoples. Jacobs’ mother is African American and hails from Philadelphia where her family has been involved with the city’s first Black Catholic Church, St. Peter Claver, since its founding in 1892. She was in the Vista volunteer program in rural Alaska when she met Jacobs’ father.
Graduating from a high school class of 26 students, Jacobs says an English teacher who was from Jamestown, NY, told him about Canisius and encouraged him to apply.
which translates as ‘maybe you really did not want to make me a small airplane,’” he laughs.
Jacobs also worked as a grant writer and development specialist for a non-profit in Alaska before earning a master’s in public administration from Baruch College in New York City. He was working as a development officer in Tacoma, WA, when he was recruited by America250 through a LinkedIn connection. Jacobs currently lives outside Philadelphia and keeps ties to his Alaska roots and serves as chairman of the board for a radio station in Bethel, the oldest Native owned PBS station in America, broadcasting in the Yup’ik language since 1971.
“The celebration of America’s 250th birthday is such an important event and I feel truly blessed to contribute to efforts to hear from all populations in planning it,” Jacobs concludes. “Canisius was exactly the right place to help prepare me for this opportunity, although little did I know I would see more snow in Buffalo than I experienced growing up in Alaska!”
For the first time I felt challenged and included. It’s where I learned how to connect with people and share perspectives – the same things that come into play in the work I do today.
Photo by: Lou Anthony
Five Honored with Distinguished Alumni Award
Recognized for exceptional professional achievements and leadership
The Canisius Alumni Association celebrated the professional achievements of five outstanding graduates in March when it hosted the Distinguished Alumni Awards dinner. The award recognizes the exceptional contributions alumni have made in their fields and their inspirational leadership. Canisius has conferred the award upon more than 220 alumni since it was established in 1975.
The 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients are:
Caroline A. Croen ’85 (English), vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer of WNET Group, America’s largest public media company. With an operating budget of $155 million, Croen oversees strategy and execution for all financial and operational aspects of the company. Prior to her current role, she was chief financial officer at Jazz at Lincoln Center.
Canisius University President Steve K. Stoute
was among 10 new members inducted into the DiGamma Honor Society in April.
The prestigious society is comprised of alumni, faculty and administrators who have distinguished themselves working for the advancement of the university and through exemplary service on behalf of students and alumni, over an extended period of time.
Dennis R. DePerro ’81 (Biology), MSEd ’88, EdD (posthumously) is the former president of St. Bonaventure University. Under his leadership, the institution welcomed its three largest incoming freshman classes in nearly a decade, saw a remarkable 329 percent increase in online graduate enrollment and launched a comprehensive capital campaign to build “A Bolder Bonaventure.” The campaign’s success helped the institution’s new School of Health Professions become a reality.
Gregory W. Mott ’81 (Communications) is supervising editor of sustainability for POLITICO. He joined the political journalism outlet in March 2021 and his exemplary leadership led to his current appointment in February 2022. Mott joined POLITICO from Bloomberg News where, as finance editor, he spearheaded coverage of breaking stories and developed enterprise projects as part of a team reporting on financial regulation developments.
Actor and director Joseph G. Grifasi ’70 (Social Sciences) is known widely for his outstanding contributions to theater, film and television. With more than 150 performances to his credits, Grifasi made his Broadway debut in Arthur Miller’s “A Memory of Two Mondays” in 1976. One year later, he delivered a memorable appearance in the Oscar-winning film “The Deerhunter” and followed it up with roles in “Moonstruck,” “Splash” and “Hide in Plain Sight.”
Grifasi shares his acting expertise as a teacher at The New School in Manhattan, The Strasberg Institute and Brown University.
As executive vice president for retail distribution at RT Specialty, Marya J. Propis ’91 (Communications, English) plays an important role in managing key broker trading relationships for the wholesale distributor of specialty insurance products and services. In addition to defining and driving the company’s distribution priorities, she spearheads its business development initiatives.
The New York City Association of Insurance Women honored Propis with its “Professional Woman of the Year Award” and the New York Business Journal named her a “Woman of Influence,” both testaments to her leadership and commitment to excellence in the field.
This year’s inductees are:
Pictured l-r (row 1): Vincent D. Clark ’97, associate vice president for development and alumni relations, Pace University; William A. Lorenz ’09, deputy county clerk for Erie County and vice grand master for DiGamma Honor Society; Lindy Feider ’06, MS ’08, associate director of academic achievement and student athlete support services, Canisius University
(row 2) Mickey P. Kearns ’91, clerk, Erie County; Shirley W. Struchen MA ’79 retired executive director and conference coordinator, Religion Communication Congress
(row 3) Jeffrey Bogart ’93, bank officer / credit analyst, Evans Bank; Steve K. Stoute, president, Canisius University
Not pictured: James R. Deuschle ’84, (retired) executive vice president and chief financial officer, Rich Products Corporation; Christopher P. Devine ’98, chief financial officer, Pyramid Global Hospitality; Chris F. Malof MBA ’96, managing director, UBS Financial Services; and Lee C. Wortham ’79, former chair, Canisius Board of Trustees; partner, Barrantys LLC; and chair, Evans Bancorp Inc.
A whole lot of reconnecting and reminiscing were had in the Sunshine State this spring, as Canisius hosted a series of snowbird events from coast-to-coast in Florida.
Special thanks, as well, to Nelson H. ’63 and Bonnie Cosgrove for welcoming Canisius alumni and friends at the Plantation Golf & Country Club in Venice.
A special thank you to Christine L. Marello ’76, who hosted alumni at the Players Club & Spa at Lely Resort in Naples, and Ann E.
’74 and members of the Naples committee for organizing the event.
Alumni can opt to receive digital edition
Canisius Magazine Goes Green
Canisius University remains committed to advancing the goals outlined in Laudato Si.’
The Vatican-led initiative calls upon Catholic institutions to strive for eco-sustainable environments by 2028. In response to this call, Canisius Magazine now publishes two print issues per year (versus three).
To further decrease the publication’s environmental footprint, alumni can now opt to receive Canisius Magazine in digital format. The content is the same as that in the print edition but is delivered via Email.
To subscribe to the digital edition of Canisius Magazine, simply scan the QR code to the right. Readers who provide a current Email address will also be subscribed to receive CanisiusNow, a monthly newsletter from President Steve Stoute.
Celani
Pictured (l-r): John Wynne ’71, Mary Lou Wynne, Carol Bieron, Mary Ellen Hoffman, Bob Hoffman ’62 , Paul Hoffman ’87, Lisa Hoffman ’87, MD
Pictured (l-r): Florence Soron, John Soron ‘63, Nelson H. Cosgrove ‘63, Bonnie Cosgrove
Pictured (l-r): Tammy Laughlin ’91, Bob Laughlin ’76, Canisius President Steve Stoute
Pictured (l-r): Tony Maglione ’67, Peggy Lynch ’74, Pat Connolly ’74, MS ’91, John Connolly ’72, Ann E. Celani ’74
Shirley (Whipple) Struchen MA ’79
MA, Religious Studies
Career Highlight: Shirley W. Struchen, retired executive director and conference coordinator of the Religion Communication Congress, was inducted into the United Methodist Association of Communicators Hall of Fame. Struchen served as a United Methodist and an ecumenical communicator for more than a half century. She retired in 2022.
Career Notes: Struchen began her communication ministry as communications director of the WNY Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC). During her tenure, she served as associate producer for the cable TV series “Catch the Spirit.” Struchen was named UMC Communicator of the Year in 1997 and currently co-chairs the “25 in 5 Capital Campaign” committee for St. Andrew UMC in New York City.
1960s
’65 BA Michael W. Shurgot, PhD, published his second novel, Raven Mountain: A Mythic Tale. The book is a sequel to Shurgot's 2020 novel Green River Saga.
’67 BS John F. Safford was elected to a two-year term as mayor of Saratoga Springs, NY. Safford previously worked for nearly 20 years as a professional managing agent to multiple homeowners associations and condo boards.
’68 BA Terrence M. Connors, a trial lawyer with Connors LLP, received the American Inns of Court Professionalism Award for the Second Circuit, presented by Chief Judge Debra Ann Livingston.
1970s
’70 BS Michael N. Coppola received a Congressional Tribute, posthumously, from (former) U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins. The tribute recognized the executive vice president of Tops Markets Inc. for his many contributions to the Buffalo community throughout his lifetime. Coppola passed away in 2022.
’72 BS Rick F. Cronin, longtime volunteer for Catholic Charities, received the organization’s Centennial Volunteer Award. Cronin has been part of the parish appeal for St. Margaret Church since 1993 and served on the appeal leadership team for nine years.
’83 BA Cindy A. (Carlisle) Eller executive director and senior vice president for the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, received Business First’s C-level & Hall of Fame Award. The award recognizes the region’s most effective business leaders.
’84 BA Patrick L. Cusato was promoted from partner to managing partner at the law firm of Underberg & Kessler LLP.
’84 BS Ann Marie (Arnone) Sava is the new director of finance and administration at the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York. She previously served as director of finance and operations at the Health Foundation’s community partner, Population Health Collaborative.
’88 BA, ‘04 MS Siobhan C. (Campbell) Smith, co-president of Catapult Executive Consulting, received Business First’s Women of Influence Award in the entrepreneur category. The award recognizes area women for their contributions to business and community.
’88 BA John D. Shine was named president of Trubee Wealth Advisors. He joined the firm in 2014 and has served as senior vice president and financial advisor.
’72 BA Ronald H. Luczak, vice president for business development at The Travel Team Inc., was appointed president of the Shaw Festival U.S. Foundation.
’74 BS C. Kevin Brayer, retired executive director of the St. Bonaventure Buffalo Center and long-standing parishioner of St. Louis Church, was named corporate division co-chair of the Appeal 2024 leadership team for Catholic Charities of Buffalo.
’76 BA Margaret W. (Werick) Paroski, MD, president and chief executive officer and chief medical officer for Catholic Health Medical Partners, received Business First’s Women of Influence Award in the category of corporate executive. The award recognizes area women for their contributions to business and community.
’79 BS Peter C. Eimer, chief executive officer for Brothers of Mercy, received Business First’s C-level & Hall of Fame Award. The award recognizes the region’s most effective business leaders.
1980s
’82 BA Timothy J. Sember rwas promoted from chief mission officer to vice president of mission and advancement at Trocaire College. He oversees the institution’s Mercy Action Project, a mission-based learning experience, which is a graduation requirement for all students.
1990s
’90 BA Nancy A. (Power) Grace was featured in Triangle Business Journal.
A licensed real estate agent with Keller Williams in North Carolina’s Raleigh/ Durham region, Grace was recently recognized as one of the top 500 agents by Triangle Real Producers Magazine and one of America’s Best Real Estate Agent Professionals by RealTrends + Tom Ferry
The Thousand, an annual, national ranking program.
’90 MS Tonja M. (Benson) Williams, EdD, superintendent of Buffalo Public Schools, was ranked No. 8 on Business First’s Power 100 list of Business Leaders of Color. The list recognizes leaders of Western New York companies and organizations, board members and individuals who act as inspirational examples for the next generation.
Beverly A. Schaefer ’06, MD
BS, Biology
Career Highlight: Beverly Schaefer, a pediatric hematologist, is the new medical director for Western New York BloodCare (WNYBC), a licensed diagnostic and treatment center formerly known as the Hemophilia Center of Western New York. She also holds a leadership role in the center’s Heavy Period Clinic, which supports the often-underdiagnosed needs of girls and women with bleeding and clotting disorders.
as a Fellow honors members whose efforts on behalf of the advancement of science or its applications in service to society have distinguished them among their peers and colleagues.
’04 BS Mark D. Walter was promoted from senior benefit consultant to director of sales and client management for Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.
’05 BS Scott M. Dobosz is the new director of marketing and underwriting at Lawley Insurance. He was director of marketing and agency sales leader for AssuredPartners.
’07 BA Lindsay M. Adornetto joined Our Lady of Victory (OLV) Charities as an annual giving officer. She was a media planner and buyer for Crowley Webb.
’08 BS, ’10 MBA Kevin P. Celniker, a commercial real estate director for Evans Bank, was named to Business First’s “40 Under 40.” The list recognizes young professionals who are doing outstanding work in their place of business and in the community.
’08 BA Rev. Kevin A. Fields is the new administrator of Holy Angels Parish in Avenue, MD, and Sacred Heart Parish in Bushwood, MD. He was parochial vicar of St. Elizabeth Parish in Rockville, MD.
’89 BS Gregory E. Agoston, PhD, was promoted from senior manager to director of reference materials acquisition for U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP). Agoston joined the company in 2009 as reference materials acquisition manager.
CANISIUS
Ronald T. Keohane ’92 BA, Political Science
Career Highlight: Ronald Keohane was confirmed by the U.S. Senate and sworn in as the 3rd Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. In this capacity, Keohane is the principal advisor to the Secretary of Defense and the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness on all matters relating to civilian and military personnel policies, reserve integration and military community.
’92 BA Hon. Ronald T. Keohane was confirmed by the U.S. Senate and sworn in as the 3rd Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. He serves as the principal advisor to the Secretary of Defense and the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness on matters relating to civilian and military personnel policies, reserve integration, and military community and family policy.
’93 BA, ‘98 MSEd Bridget (Power) Fitzpatrick was promoted from literacy specialist (K-4) to the experience corps literacy coach at Read to Succeed Buffalo. In her new role, Fitzpatrick focuses on supporting tutors and mentors in first through third grade
Career Notes: Keohane previously served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy, during President Barack Obama’s administration. In this role, he oversaw and advocated for programs, policies and resources related to the quality of life of service members and their families worldwide.
Career Notes: In addition to her work at WNYBC, Schaefer is a pediatric oncologist at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and the John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor in the Division of Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology at the University of Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.
classrooms. The position supports the expansion of the Experience Corps Literacy Tutoring and Mentoring Program in the Buffalo Public Schools.
’95 BA Micheal J. Ball, vice president for community affairs at Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, received Business First’s C-level and Hall of Fame Award. The award recognizes the region’s most effective business leaders.
’95 BA Randal R. Boivin opened a new chiropractic practice, Boivin Family Chiropractic, in Wexford, PA. He previously owned a practice in Baldwinsville, NY for more than 20 years.
’96 BA John F. O’Donnell, founder and managing partner of the government relations firm O’Donnell & Associates, was named to the prestigious Irish Legal 100. The annual list recognizes the most distinguished legal professionals in the U.S. who share a common bond in their Irish heritage.
’97 BA John S. Prizner III is the new associate vice president for advancement and constituent development at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY. He was senior principal gifts officer at Syracuse University.
’97 BA Joseph A. Argo joined the civil litigation law firm of Goldberg Segalla. He is a partner in the firm’s construction litigation and counsel practice. In addition to 10 years in private practice, Argo spent seven years as deputy district attorney for Erie County.
’98 BS Jessica L. (Gernatt) Underberg, chief executive officer of the Erie County Agricultural Society, received Business First’s C-Level Executive Award. The award recognizes Western New York’s most effective business leaders.
’99 MBA Suzanne M. (Meaney) Gannon was promoted from director of provider experience to vice president for contracting and relations for Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.
’99 BA, ‘03 MS Chandra L. (Banks) Redfern, chief executive officer of the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers Inc., received Business First’s 2023 Women of Influence Award in the non-profit category. The award recognizes area women for their contributions to business and community.
2000s
’02 MBA John T. Gavigan is the chief executive officer of CrediVault, a digital records platform. The company recently developed WireVault, a new product that protects businesses from wire fraud.
’02 BA Richard L. Leise, an English teacher at Bradford Central School, published his first novel, Being Dead The book is described as a thoughtprovoking tale of grief and loss.
’03 MS Brandy L. Vandermark-Murray is the new president of Horizon Corporations, a behavioral health treatment provider. She joined the organization in 2011 and has served in various roles including vice president for Horizon Village and senior vice president of operations.
’04 BA Benjamin M. Hickey was named interim director of the Hilliard Art Museum in Lafayette, LA. He joined the museum in 2018 as curator.
’04 BA Wendy (Eichorst) Naus, executive director of the Consortium of Social Science Association, was elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Election
’07 Elisabeth L. (Leone) Baldwin is a new associate attorney for Robinson Bradshaw in Charlotte, NC. She was the symposium editor for North Carolina Law Review.
’07 MS Johnathan Graves was promoted from mortgage loan officer to community lending officer at Northwest Bank.
’07 BS, ‘10 MBA Andrew R. Hahn, a senior executive of investment services at Northwest Bank, was named to Business First’s “40 Under 40.” The list recognizes young professionals who are doing outstanding work in their place of business and in the community.
’07 Natalie M. (Fike) Lieberman is the new management and program analyst for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the Washington DC-Baltimore area. She was a senior consultant and writer with the business and consulting firm of LMI.
’07 BS Derek A Mosher, a senior vice president and senior audit manager for M&T Bank, was appointed president of the board for the National Parkinson’s Foundation New York-New Jersey chapter.
’08 MBA Rachel N. (George) Leidenfrost, executive vice president for people and projects at FeedMore WNY, received Business First’s Women of Influence Award in the behind-thescenes category. The award recognizes area women for their contributions to business and community.
’09 MBA Gina Giese, senior vice president and retail regional manager with M&T Bank, was named to the Catholic Charities of Buffalo Appeal 2024 leadership team. Giese is chair of the parish and community division.
2010s
’10 MS Michael P. Lee, chief operating officer for Evergreen Health, received Business First’s C-Level Executive Award. The award recognizes Western New York’s most effective business leaders.
’10 BS Alexander R. Caldiero joined KeyBank as senior vice president of commercial banking. He was vice president and global relationship manager in the Corporate Banking Division of HSBC.
’11 MBA Sean P Balkin was promoted from senior associate to partner at the law firm of Lippes Mathias LLP.
Cameron T. Rosenecker ’19, MBA ’21 BS, Accounting MBA, Accounting
Career Highlight: Cameron Rosenecker was promoted to managing director for the Brisbane Consulting Group. He joined the firm in 2022 after working with the Governmental Accounting Standards Board as a postgraduate technical assistant.
Career Notes: Rosenecker is a volunteer at St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, where he teaches business classes to high school students after regular school hours.
CANISIUS
MADE
Weddings
James E. Sowa ’15 and Shauna Murphy
April 29, 2023*
Darrah M. Roberson ’22 and Jordan Sapp
April 20, 2023
Alexis C. Williams ’15 and Jordan Wright
July 16, 2023
Kaitlyn E. Hatch ’13, MSEd ’15 and Aaron E. Deutschman ’14
October 7, 2023*
Samuel R. Tulipane ’18 and Breyanna C. Davis ’18
December 22, 2023
Connor J. Rosenecker ’18 and Katherine Kolber
September 2, 2023
Daniel I. Sheff ’90 and Rebecca L. Larson
June 10, 2023
Kiley B. Burns ’18 and Jacob Schreiber
November 11, 2023
Lisa A. LaTrovato MBA ’12 and Todd Schupbach
September 1, 2023
*Indicates married at Christ the King Chapel
’11 BA Jeffrey Hartinger is a new outreach aide in the Erie County Department of Senior Services. He was a public safety telecommunicator in the Erie County Department of Central Police Services.
’13 BS Joseph V. Akel joined LeChase Construction as the new project manager for the Buffalo office. He was project manager for Arc Building Partners.
’13 MS Shannon D. Bryant (Solomon), chief diversity and inclusion officer for Kaleida Health, was ranked No. 69 on Business First’s Power 100 list of Business Leaders of Color. The list recognizes leaders of Western New York companies and organizations, board members and individuals who act as inspirational examples for the next generation.
’13 BA Carolynn E. Grennell joined Gross Shuman P.C. as an associate attorney. She focuses her legal practice in the areas of business litigation, corporate law, estate planning and employment law. Prior to Gross Shuman, Grennell was an associate attorney at McCarthy Williams PLLC.
’14 MSEd Michael A. Antonelli, a principal in the Grand Island Central School District and owner of Nickel City Hardwood, was named to Business First’s “40 under 40.”
The list recognizes young professionals who are doing outstanding work in their place of business and in the community.
’14 MBA Vilona C. Trachtenberg is the new live events marketing manager for the Buffalo Sabres. She was a distribution coordinator for New Era Cap.
’14 BA Alexander D. Vilardo was promoted from senior associate attorney to partner at Colligan Law LLP, where he concentrates his practice in the areas of corporate and startup law, commercial real estate, and estate planning and administration.
baby griffs
born December 12, 2023 to William A. Lorenz ’09 and Michelle A. (Bradley) Lorenz ’13
Jason A.
Thomas R. Donovan ’07, MS ’15 and Christina M. (Kennedy) Donovan ’08, a son Matteo Philip, born September 29, 2023
Diana (Agostini) Vulaj ’09 and Brandon J. Vulaj 10, a daughter, Isabella Catherine, born January 19, 2024
IN MEMORIAM
Canisius mourns loss of beloved “Colonel”
A profound sense of sadness echoed across the Canisius campus early this year as the university lost one of its most cherished alumni. Lt. Col. James E. McNicholas ’68, MSEd ’97 entered into rest on February 22, 2024. He was 77.
Affectionally known as “the Colonel,” McNicholas’ dedication and service to alma mater spanned decades and encompassed a myriad of roles, from teaching and then leading the ROTC program to working in the annual fund call center and serving as a member of the Board of Trustees.
The first in his family to attend college, McNicholas came to Canisius on an athletic scholarship and with a dream of playing basketball. An ankle injury ended those aspirations but his role in the school’s Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) opened a new path for him to serve both country and Canisius with distinction.
’15 BA Katrina R. Cosgrove, founder of Grief is Good, authored “I’ll See You in Your Dreams Tonight.” The book of hope for grieving children reached No. 1 on Amazon’s list of Inspirational Reading for Children.
’16 MBA Chad A. Klotzbach, managing partner at Allegheny Services, was named to Business First’s “40 Under 40.”
The list recognizes young professionals who are doing outstanding work in their place of business and in the community.
2020s
’21 BS Amanda L. Lee is the new recycling administrator for GLOW Region Solid Waste Management, which services Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties.
’21 BS Michael R. Pesarchick joined the Office of Planning and Environmental Services for the City of Niagara Falls as Planner II and historic preservation specialist. Pesarchick handles daily planning projects and manages the city’s historic properties through the Certificate of Appropriateness process.
Commissioned a second lieutenant upon graduation, McNicholas served staff assignments in Korea, Germany and in the Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Fort Ritchie, MD, during his quarter century as an officer.
His duty took him to distant lands but McNicholas’ heart always remained close to Canisius.
He returned twice: first to teach in the Military Science Program (1975-78) and then to serve as chair of Military Science (1989-93). Under his leadership, the Golden Griffin Battalion earned two consecutive No. 1 spots in the nation for exceptional performance at ROTC Advanced Camp.
Upon McNicholas’ military retirement in 1993, he went on to set up and serve as director of the Junior ROTC program for the Buffalo Public School District, helping to shape the lives of numerous young men and women – a dedication he paralleled at alma mater.
For more than five decades, McNicholas gave generously to Canisius in a variety of capacities. He served on reunion planning committees and supported the annual fund. Elected to the Alumni Board, he capped his commitment with a term as president of the Alumni Association. McNicholas provided counsel to university presidents through service on the Board of Regents (2012 -17) and the Board of Trustees from 2019 up until his passing.
A familiar and vocal presence at Golden Griffin games, McNicholas was a staunch supporter of men’s basketball and hockey. During his tenure as president of the Cage Club, he helped boost membership and double funding.
McNicholas furthered his impact at Canisius in 2018, when he established the James E. ’68, MSED ’97 and Dorothy Higgins McNicholas Scholarship Fund. The scholarship supports qualified students and will now enable the spirit of “the Colonel” to forever live on at his beloved Canisius.
To make a gift to the James E. ’68, MSEd ’97 and Dorothy Higgins McNicholas Scholarship Fund, contact Mary Ellen Bakowski ’85, MBA ’90, at bakowskm@canisius.edu or 716-888-2235.
Bill O’Hare ’ 17 and Emily M. (Keem) O’Hare 19, a daughter, Grace Jean, born August 10, 2023
Cascio ’96 and Allison Ditto, a son Jaxson Peter, born July 14, 2023
IN MEMORIAM
Frank J. Becht ’47
August 22, 2023
Joseph S. Gizinski ’48, MSEd ’51, PhD
August 24, 2023
Joseph J. Sannella ’50, MD
August 4, 2023
Matthew X. Wagner Jr. ’50
October 28, 2023
Richard J. Wierzbicki ’51
May 20, 2023
Carl A. Albano ’52
September 3, 2023
Joseph M. Nasca ’52
June 3, 2023
Joseph H. Czora Jr. ’53, MSEd ’54
July 25, 2023
Frederick A. Griffen ’53
November 9, 2023
Shirley H. (Hebeler) Kraus MSEd ’53
November 9, 2023
Richard J. Thompson ’53, PhD
October 15, 2023
Jack R. Bagar ’54
August 19, 2023
Carl A. Contino Jr. ’54, MD
September 3, 2023
Joan S. (Smith) Bermeitinger ’55
October 10, 2023
Thomas P. Jakiel ’55
January 24, 2024
Hugh M. Neeson ’55
September 28, 2023
Anthony J. Smaczniak ’55
September 29, 2023
Donald E. Riederer ’55
November 15, 2023
Lawrence H. Wall ’55
October 2, 2023
Thomas E. Schultz ’56
January 5, 2024
Stanley H. Cieslar ’57
June 24, 2023
John N. Zaidel ’57
June 24, 2023
Saleh I. Assad ’58, MSEd ’61
January 23, 2024
John P. Courtney ’58
October 18, 2023
Felix G. Labaki MS ’58, EdD
September 24, 2023
John A. Mumbach ’58
February 21, 2024
John R. Simet ’58
January 18, 2024
Francis P. Brady ’59
June 8, 2023
Joseph F. Bieron ’59, MS ’61, PhD
December 14, 2023
Robert E. Kocieniewski ’59
Richard C. Riederer ’59
May 9, 2023
David H. Wrotniak ’59, MA ’63
October 19, 2023
David J. Borgioli ’60, MSEd ’66 October 30, 2023
Lawrence J. Casazza ’60, MD June 13, 2023
George J. Drescher ’60 June 24, 2023
John F. Reilly Jr. ’60, MD December 20, 2023
Dennis J. Bossi ’61 November 18, 2023
Michael A. Pasquarella ’61 December 7, 2023
Norman S. Andrzejewski ’62 October 1, 2023
John M. Buchheit ’62 March 1, 2024
Donald P. Donahue MSEd ’62 November 26, 2023
Michael L. Donahue ’62
October 26, 2023
Roger C. Feedham ’62
September 4, 2023
Karl J. Hagler ’62
February 17, 2024
John J. Merlino ’62
October 26, 2023
Robert E. Edie MSEd ’63
January 5, 2024
William G. Gensler MA ’63, PhD
June 5, 2023
Mary E. (Murphy) Kinzly MS ’63 July 17, 2023
John R. Murnan Sr. ’63
October 17, 2023
Peter N. Sillitto ’63
January 10, 2024
John T. Whelan ’63, PhD
March 25, 2023
Charles M. Gable ’64
July 24, 2023
William C. Grotke ’64, MSEd ’68
October 7, 2023
Richard Sokolowski ’64
January 19, 2024
Robert S. Swiatek ’64
November 28, 2023
Kenneth A. Poss ’65
May 25, 2023
Frank E. Swiatek ’65
June 21, 2023
Chester C. Syput Jr. ’65, MBA ’75
December 3, 2023
Harold W. Roberts Jr. ’65
September 12, 2023
Robert E. Whelan ’65
Dennis P. Igoe ’66, MSEd ’70, EdD
October 2, 2023
Paul J. Lasker ’66
January 1, 2024
Michael J. McQuillen ’66, EdD
November 2, 2023
Joseph S. Pirrone ’66
December 7, 2023
Ralph N. Wachter ’66, PhD
April 1, 2023
Roger J. Fenlon ’67
January 12, 2024
Roger W. Karre ’67
November 28, 2023
Sr. M. Perpetua O. O’Donnell MSEd ’67
January 25, 2024
Vincent S. Pesce MSEd ’67
June 23, 2023
James A. Studzinski ’67
July 8, 2023
Hubert C. Tromble ’67
July 9, 2023
Joseph P. Wolf MSEd ’67
January 2, 2024
Francis C. Ball ’68
November 19, 2023
Joseph G. Calleri ’68
January 7, 2024
Nancy J. Kibler MSEd ’68
November 14, 2023
James E. McNicholas Jr. ’68, MS ’97
February 22, 2024
Charles W. Platzer MSEd ’68
January 22, 2024
Charles A. DiGangi ’69
October 20, 2023
Norman J. Gleason MSEd ’69
October 25, 2023
Carol A. (Smith) Kaufman MSEd ’69
July 3, 2023
Joseph A. Kolasny MSEd ’69
December 18, 2023
Carolyn M. Fabiano ’70, MS ’74
June 20, 2023
Robert R. Howe ’70
May 5, 2023
John T. Kensy ’70
August 16, 2023
Peter J. Carrillo ’71, MD
May 16, 2023
Edward A. Domaracki ’71
July 5, 2023
Marc A. Eglin ’71
August 4, 2023
Joseph F. Ginett MS ’71
June 16, 2023
Walter J. Koniarczyk ’71
January 25, 2024
Susan E. Kotlarz ’71
Linda E. Cipriano MSEd ’73, MS ’79
June 4, 2023
Thomas E. Mazurek MS ’73
June 27, 2023
John P. McPartland MBA ’73
January 3, 2024
Ronald F. Rosso MBA ’73
August 28, 2023
Frances M. Ziemer MSEd ’73
January 19, 2024
Dennis J. Campagna MS ’74
July 22, 2023
Maryellen W. (Williams) Pfeifer ’74
January 1, 2024
Thomas M. Thurston ’74
November 18, 2023
Donald F. Williams ’74
December 28, 2023
Kevin J. Andres ’75
May 20, 2023
Robert S. Esposito ’75
December 31, 2023
Gary A. Rich ’75
February 6, 2024
Linda B. (Borgosz) Roberts MSEd ’75
July 5, 2023
Barbara M. (Giangualano) Rykowski ’75
May 2, 2023
David J. Zielinski ’75
January 23, 2024
Rev. Michael H. Burzynski ’76, PhD
September 4, 2023
Patricia K. (Kennedy) Clayback ’76, MS ’85
December 28, 2023
Joseph S. Costello MS ’76
August 18, 2023
George J. Cotroneo MBA ’76
January 25, 2024
Peter P. Kluczycki ’76
November 23, 2023
Joseph L. Taylor MS ’76
October 19, 2023
Bernice D. Workman-Webb MSED ’76
February 10, 2023
William D. Geake MS ’77
February 6, 2024
Marian T. (Giroux) Knox ’77
February 11, 2024
Ronald J. Patenaude ’77
September 9, 2023
David J. Reedy ’77
September 8, 2023
John A. Walter MBA ’77
July 21, 2023
Rita E. Clarey MS ’78
January 19, 2024
Mark V. Grecco ’78
January 15, 2024
Nancy A. Nyitrai MS ’78
Arlene G. Royer MS ’78
November 30, 2023
Sandra J. Warner MBA ’78
May 31, 2023
Louise H. White MS ’78
July 9, 2023
Amy C. Banks MS ’80
June 22, 2023
Robert M. Barrett ’80
June 3, 2023
Neil L. McKeague III MBA ’80
February 19, 2024
Eleanor T. Kubiniec ’81
February 23, 2024
Jeffrey J. Shanor ’81
May 29, 2023
Albert Zarcone ’81
November 14, 2023
Stephen S. Bowman ’82
October 28, 2023
Sharon M. Alexander MSEd ’83
November 13, 2023
James A. Bove ’83
July 10, 2023
Anthony L. Cioppi ’83
October 8, 2023
George F. Dolce ’83
March 7, 2023
David G. Gerard ’83
July 5, 2023
Virginia P. Smaczniak ’83
October 19, 2023
Anthony Aronica ’84
August 3, 2023
Michael A. Denz MBA ’84
January 15, 2024
Eric P. Doherty ’84
January 9, 2024
Russell T. Gaglia ’84
July 7, 2023
Marian McLellan MS ’84
September 14, 2023
Cynthia L. (Woitas) Fohrd ’85
July 20, 2023
Monica C. McNeill ’85
September 11, 2023
Rev. Angelo J. Artemas ’86
April 20, 2023
Sandra M. (Susan) Litt ’86
January 25, 2024
Susan M. (Grabowski) Covelli MSEd ’87
October 20, 2023
Gordon Connally MS ’88, PhD
June 3, 2023
Monica T. (Isker) Gurreri ’88
September 14, 2023
Thomas T. Kutas ’88
December 30, 2023
Franco F. Ardito ’89
September 21, 2023
Anna M. Burakowski ’89
July 24, 2023
Marsha S. Niceforo MS ’89
January 1, 2024
Trisha A. (Gallagher) Monile ’90, MSEd ’96
January 19, 2024
Melissa A. Prorok MS ’90
January 3, 2024
Daniel M. Quinlan ’90
June 9, 2023
Lynn M. (Niederlander) Weiss MBA ’90 July 30, 2023
Joan A. Lis MS ’91
February 13, 2024
Michael M. Moeller MBA ’91 April 30, 2023
Sr. Marie Stachowiak MS ’91 December 10, 2023
Adrienne Senese ’92
October 21, 2023
Dennis P. Farrell ’93
December 28, 2023
Todd M. Mittler ’93
November 23, 2023
Camille D. Simonian ’93
August 11, 2023
Patricia A. (Kuhn) Kistner MS ’95
January 6, 2024
Kristin (Schoellkopf) Borowiak MSEd ’96 June 20, 2023
Steven J. Kuhn ’98 May 29, 2023
Dominique M. LaTona MS ’98 November 4, 2023
Maryanne T. (Mann) Snyder ’99 August 7, 2023
Barbara J. Hole MS ’99 August 25, 2023
Cheryl F. Geary MS ’00 February 16, 2024
Paul J. Childress MS ’01
September 22, 2023
Peter Holowka MBA ’02
January 7, 2024
David A. Freitus ’09, MS ’11 August 3, 2023
Danielle M. (Horan) Vangel ’10 August 31, 2023
Brandon J. Cammarano ’16 October 31, 2023
Tyler A. Nixon ’18
September 23, 2023
Maxwell J. Cywinski ’21
December 5, 2023
June 7, 2023
September 15, 2023
William P. Dillon ’66, MD
April 21, 2023
May 25, 2023
Carl E. Otis ’71
September 22, 2023
February 20, 2024
Elinor M. Stein MS ’78
June 19, 2023
I soon realized with my background in sports, martial arts and fitness, I’d been training all along to be a stunt performer. And it’s fair to say, I am a quick study.
BOUNDS
“I never thought about stunt work until a personal trainer I knew in New York City suggested I put together a resume and apply for some casting calls,” Stevens explains. “I soon realized with my background in sports, martial arts and fitness, I’d been training all along to be a stunt performer. And it’s fair to say, I am a quick study.”
JÉNEL STEVENS ’04, MS ’05 IS BREAKING NEW GROUND AS A HOLLYWOOD STUNT WOMAN AND ACTRESS
If you have seen blockbuster movies such as “Black Panther” or “The Woman King,” you have seen Jénel Stevens ’04, MS ’05 in action. You just may not have known it. Stay tuned because we are sure to see a lot more of her on the big screen and on TV. Stevens has become the entertainment industry’s go-to stunt woman, coordinator and choreographer, and has worked as a stunt double for Hollywood stars such as Viola Davis and British actress Jameela Jamil. Perhaps more
importantly, Stevens is opening doors for other female stunt performers, especially Black women and women of color, who may not have even been aware that stunt work can turn into a career.
Remarkably, Stevens has only been in the field since 2015 yet her resume reads like a seasoned veteran. Before movies, her early work included such television shows as “Madam Secretary,” “Bull,” and “Orange is the New Black.” And she continues to add to her credits.
Growing up in Long Island, NY, Stevens played softball, tennis and football, and took karate and taekwondo lessons. She began to play organized basketball in high school and this quick study soon attracted the attention of Canisius, which recruited her in 2000. Stevens played all four years and is one of the most decorated female studentathletes in Canisius history. A three-time All-MAAC honoree, she was the 2003-04 MAAC Player of the Year and also shared the league’s Defensive Player of the Year honors that season. The first two-time Canisius Female Athlete of the Year, she graduated as the fourth-leading scorer with 1,590 points and the third-best rebounder in program history with 876 rebounds.
“In my freshman year, I was motivated by a coach who didn’t think I could play Division 1 basketball,” Stevens recalls. “That just drove me to really work hard and I promised myself I would leave it all on the court, every game.”
Stevens also earned MAAC All-Academic Honors as she studied for her degree in business management. While pursuing her master’s degree in sport administration, Stevens served as an assistant coach for two years at Canisius and helped lead the 2005 MAAC women’s basketball championship team. She was inducted into the Canisius Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.
Intending to take a shot at playing professional basketball, Stevens attended a pro basketball camp until an injury sidelined her. She returned to New York City and became a personal trainer,
fitness coach and nutrition counselor, ultimately starting her own personal training business. At the same time, Stevens began to take on modeling and acting roles for various productions in New York. Once Stevens began stunt work, the action intensified.
Her career has taken Stevens around the world and her stunts have included everything from fight scenes to a swan dive from atop a yacht 30 feet into the ocean. Stevens stresses that every stunt is a team effort and includes a stunt coordinator, rigging coordinator and others, with safety of the performer being the first priority. What the audience sees as a few seconds of action can actually take days of rehearsing carefully choreographed moves.
Last year, “The Hollywood Reporter” named Stevens stunt person of the year following her work on “The Woman King.” She says the same mental fortitude and physical agility that brought her success on the basketball court comes into play on TV and movie sets as she continues to take her stunt performances to the next level. Stevens hints that in an upcoming role, she is the fight coordinator and stunt double for actress Danai Gurira, who plays Michonne on the spinoff of the “Walking Dead” drama series, titled “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live.” Stevens will also play a stunt/acting role in Shadow Force, an action thriller from director Joe Carnahan, currently in production. She plays a highly skilled assassin named Anino and joins a cast including Kerry Washington and Da’Vine Joy Randolph.
“I am doing the work I do because I have always kept an open mind,” Stevens concludes. “There are so many avenues a person can take and young women should know that stunt performance is a viable career opportunity.”
Story by: Martin J. Haumesser
Photos: Michael Hermogeno / 8x10 Proofs
Join us September 27 – 29, 2024 when – for the first time ever – Canisius University combines Alumni Weekend and Family Weekend into a singular epic event.
Hosted by the offices of Alumni Engagement and Student Engagement, the weekend promises to deliver an amazing blend of cherished traditions and exciting new experiences for all.
Alumni highlights include the Sports Hall of Fame induction, special reunions for the classes of 1974, 1999 and 2014, Coffee & Conversation with President Steve Stoute, Fall Fest, Blue & Gold Bash (formerly Tent Party) and so much more!
