Winter 2017 Canisius College Magazine by Canisius University

CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGAZINE | WINTER 2017

president’sperspective

It is sometimes said that a college or university has three essential but distinct purposes: the education of its students, the contribution to the search for truth in the world through the research of its faculty, and the promotion of the well-being of the communities in which they are located. As I think about the 147-year history of Canisius College, I think that we have embraced all three responsibilities in unique and creative ways. Every day, I see and hear stories of the ways in which we deliver our transformational education to our students. Indeed, the experiential learning opportunities highlighted in this issue (see page 12) are prime examples of an education that pushes students to levels of academic accomplishment they may never have thought possible. Our approach to faculty research stresses research that informs teaching and research that can involve our students. Our students have research opportunities on a par with many post-doctoral programs. When it comes to the well-being of our communities, Canisius has an exemplary track record of commitment and results. Over the past few months, I have gathered a group of faculty, staff and students to discuss an initiative we are calling The New Buffalo Institute. This is our effort to reassess our many outreach activities and programs in light of emerging developments in our region. From the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus to Canalside, Buffalo is changing for the better and people increasingly are talking about a “New Buffalo.” We see evidence of a vibrant, entrepreneurial community developing new ideas and businesses that will lead to economic growth. And so, we have asked at Canisius: How should the college reposition its academic programs and its many outreach efforts to continue to play an important role in this New Buffalo? At the same time, we realize that we haven’t yet solved many of the problems of the old Buffalo and the nature of those problems – with education, job opportunities, racism, neighborhoods among others – are changing as Buffalo attempts to assimilate growing numbers of “New Americans” through refugee resettlement programs. Our discussions of this New Buffalo Institute have included a social justice track and we are attempting to define a small number of priority areas in which we can draw on resources from across the college to have a greater impact.

To date, we’ve decided to start with three areas of critical importance: First, our involvement with the Buffalo Public Schools, particularly in the Buffalo Promise Neighborhood (in the city’s University District), where we have accepted School Superintendent Dr. Kriner Cash’s invitation to become the higher education partner. Our announcement of the formation of the Center for Urban Education at Canisius (see page 4) is another part of this new effort. Second, we want to find new and creative ways to reach out to the New Americans in our midst and assist them in their efforts to assimilate in our community and find opportunity. We see this as growing out of the Gospel imperative to “welcome the stranger,” but as all Buffalonians know, it’s also part of our DNA in the City of Good Neighbors. Third, we will never forget the Hamlin Park neighborhood that we have called home since 1910 and we will continue our efforts to work with our neighbors to build a strong, safe neighborhood, successful schools and a quality of life that will benefit us all. Our discussions so far have been energetic, passionate and encouraging. Stay tuned for further developments on this exciting new initiative.

features

Alumni Spotlights

The Contender Wendy M. Casey MSEd ’14 fights her way onto the world stage.

Inspired to Serve Vincent D. Clark ’97 carves out a career that empowers others.

Cover Story

Oh, the Places They Go! Canisius students substitute classroom learning for experiential opportunities that take them thousands of miles from 2001 Main Street.

Faculty Research

Mistaken Identification Associate Professor of Psychology Charles A. Goodsell, PhD, investigates the fallibility of eyewitness identification.

Alumni Spotlight

On Call

Kathleen A. Grisanti Lillis ’82, MD, pioneers the region’s first pediatric urgent care center.

blue&goldbriefs

College Magazine WINTER 2017 I VOLUME 17, ISSUE 3

President John J. Hurley Vice President for Institutional Advancement William M. Collins Chief Communications Officer & Executive Editor Eileen C. Herbert ’04, MS ’15 Managing Editor Audrey R. Browka Creative Director Patty Herkey Art Director Cody Weiler Contributing Writers Kristin E. Etu ’91 Kate E. Lockhart Makayla A. Santiago Gary L. Steltermann ’10, MSA ’14 Photography Tom Wolf ’86

Supporting Success

New Center for Urban Education aims to close achievement gap Canisius is partnering with the National Urban Alliance (NUA) to create a Center for Urban Education. Housed in the School of Education & Human Services, the center’s resources will be available to educators who want to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in urban schools across the region. The Center for Urban Education has outlined six key objectives including the establishment of a professional learning zone in urban schools that is organized around the NUA’s professional development model. The center also will implement specific strategies to enhance new teacher recruitment and retention, and provide ongoing support and mentoring for teachers in urban schools. WEB EXTRA > Learn more about the new Center for Urban Education at canisius.edu/magazine.

We are eager to hear your comments about Canisius College Magazine. Please send correspondence to: Canisius College Magazine 2001 Main Street, Lyons Hall Room 209, Buffalo, NY 14208 Phone 716-888-2790 Fax 716-888-2778 Email ccmag@canisius.edu

C A N I S I U S C O L L E G E E C O N O M I C I M PAC T

$188.1

MILLION

ESTIMATED OUTPUT (INSTITUTION, ANNUAL CONSTRUCTION, SPILLOVER)

$36.3

MILLION

ESTIMATED STUDENT & VISITOR IMPACT

Postmaster send change of address to: Canisius College, 2001 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14208

$224.4

MILLION – TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT

*The following information was compiled by the Center for Governmental Research and published by the Commission on Independent Colleges & Universities in New York. It reflects Canisius College’s regional impact for 2015.

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE WINTER 2017

blue&goldbriefs Commencement 2017

Canisius alumni to address graduates Two Canisius alumni will address the undergraduate and graduate classes of 2017 during commencement ceremonies in May at the Koessler Athletic Center. Christine M. Licata-Culhane ’67, MS ’71, EdD, EdS, will address the graduate Class of 2017 on May 17. As senior associate provost in the Division of Academic Affairs at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Licata-Culhane works to advance student academic success. She is widely recognized for her research on faculty evaluation, specifically post-tenure review, and authored one of the first national reports on this topic. Licata-Culhane is the former vice chair of the Canisius Board of Trustees. Nelson D. Civello ’67 will deliver remarks to undergraduate students on May 20. Civello is the retired president of the Fixed Income Capital Markets Group for Dain Rauscher Corp. At Canisius, he launched the Golden Griffin Fund (GGF) and established the Financial Markets Lab from which the GGF operates. The GGF is a student-run investment management program that allows students to make investments using real money. Civello taught in the program until his retirement in 2008. He is a past member of the Canisius Board of Trustees, and now works to raise awareness of and resources for stomach cancer patients through Debbie’s Dream Foundation and the DeGregorio Foundation. Canisius will confer honorary degrees upon Civello and Licata-Culhane during commencement ceremonies. Also receiving honorary degrees are Bishop Emeritus Matthew H. Clark, from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester; Michael “Mitch” Flynn, owner of the boutique advertising agency Flynn & Friends and founder of the Ride for Roswell; Amy J. Habib MS ’63, retired chair of Petri Baking Products Inc.; and L. Nelson “Nick” Hopkins, MD, an internationally recognized pioneer of endovascular neurosurgery.

Canisius Loses Coaching Legend Sister Maria Pares, a coaching legend at Canisius College – and throughout Western New York – passed away January 20 following a long battle with cancer. After serving as the long-time head coach at Sacred Heart Academy in Buffalo, Pares took over the Canisius program from 1981-1986. The Sports Hall of Fame inductee posted a career record of 108-39 at Canisius, coached three All-Americans, never lost back-to-back games and posted a .735 career win percentage, which ranks first in the program’s history. Pares was 75.

Canisius earned a place on the 2017 list of Military Friendly Schools. The college was recognized for its strong student retention and graduation rates, job placement, and “its dedication of resources that ensure the success of student veterans in the classroom and after graduation.” G.I. Jobs magazine published the first list of Military Friendly Schools in 2009. This is the eighth consecutive year Canisius College earned the designation.

WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

alumnispotlight

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE WINTER 2017

The Contender Wendy M. Casey MSEd ’14 fights her way onto the world stage Story: Kristin E. Etu ’91 / Photography: Tom Wolf ’86

Golden Gloves National Champion Wendy M. Casey MSEd ’14 doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to her students. “On the first day of school I tell my class that I’m a boxer so they better not mess with me,” jokes the seventh grade math teacher at Westminster Community Charter School in Buffalo. Casey balances a rigorous 15-hour training schedule each week, along with her full-time teaching job. “I teach my students that if I can challenge myself and think outside the norm, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.” The Binghamton native began challenging herself in high school when she joined the boys wrestling team. Her introduction to boxing came in college. Looking for a way to lose “the freshman 15,” Casey visited the Boxing Club at the University at Buffalo. It was there she met her coach, Dean Eoannou, who realized Casey was a natural in the ring. Casey’s smarts coupled with her wicked upper cut quickly set her apart. She knows that being a successful prizefighter is as much about brains as it is brawn. “Boxing is like a chess match,” Casey says. “You have to anticipate where your opponent is going to be, and know what punches and how many to throw. Successful boxing requires technique and skill.” Interestingly, Casey shares many of these skills and techniques with people who suffer from Parkinson’s disease. Non-contact boxing, she explains, is now considered a successful, albeit nontraditional, form of physical therapy for Parkinson’s patients. “Boxing skills emphasize balance and hand-eye coordination, increase focus and force the brain to send multiple messages at one time,” says Casey, who trains Parkinson’s patients alongside her coach at The Fitness Factory in Kenmore. “It’s incredible to see the improvements my clients make in just a few weeks.” Just as incredible is the trajectory of Casey’s career in the ring. After winning the belt at the Golden Gloves National Championship, Casey emerged victorious at the Women’s Open Class competition (125-pound division) and two weeks later won the Ringside World Championship. She didn’t lose a single round in that tournament. Now, Casey is fighting her way onto the world stage. In December she won the USA Boxing National Championships (125-pound division), which qualified her for a place on Team USA. Casey took a temporary hiatus from teaching and will soon attend training camp in Colorado Springs, CO. She will compete all over the world as a member of Team USA. “I am determined to make the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team,” she says. “I can do it and I will.” With that kind of attitude, Casey is sure to go the distance.

WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

advancement

DONOR PROFILE: Ruth J. Schwendler

An unexpected gift helps provide a Canisius education She did not attend Canisius. Nor did she have a relationship with the college. But beginning in fall 2017, several students – who otherwise would not be able to afford a Canisius education – will benefit from the legacy of the late Ruth J. Schwendler. The Amherst resident, who passed away last year, bequeathed $1 million to Canisius. The gift will be used to endow the Ruth J. Schwendler Scholarship, in memory of her parents, Henry and Clara Schwendler. At her request, the scholarship will provide financial support to Canisius students with financial need. Ruth Schwendler was a cousin to the late Francis J. Walter ’48, PhD, a professor of history at the college.

The Golden Jubilee Challenge

Class of 1967 can double its reunion-year donation Attention Class of 1967: You’ve been challenged by one of your classmates! In recognition of your 50-year reunion this spring, an anonymous classmate is offering to match every gift made to the Class of 1967 reunion program, up to $300,000. The Golden Jubilee Challenge continues through May 31, 2017. To maximize the impact of your philanthropy, multi-year commitments payable over a five-year period are encouraged. Make your donation now by contacting J. Patrick Greenwald (greenwal@canisius.edu / 716-888-8216) or Dennis L. Misko '67 (miskod@canisius.edu / 716-888-8226).

Canisius College recognized the lifetime achievements of Andy Anselmo ’45 in January when it dedicated the second floor gallery of the Montante Cultural Center in his honor. A highly acclaimed vocalist, Anselmo is best known as the voice coach to the stars. He taught some of the greatest names in show business including Liza Minnelli, Tony Bennett, Eartha Kitt and his all-time favorite, Geraldine Fitzgerald. In 2005, Anselmo established the Andy Anselmo ’45 Endowed Music Scholarship at Canisius to provide financial support for vocal music students. Earlier this year, he made a generous gift to the college’s Fine Arts Department to fund the purchase of a concert grand piano. Anselmo also established the Andy Anselmo ’45 Piano Preservation Fund, monies from which will be used to care for the piano in perpetuity.

canisius.edu/canisiusfund

Distinguished Citizen Canisius Board of Regents recognizes New Era’s Chris Koch The Canisius College Board of Regents will confer its Distinguished Citizen Award upon Christopher H. Koch at the annual Regents Scholarship Ball on May 6 at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo. Koch is the fourth generation CEO of the family-owned company New Era Cap Co. Inc. As the company’s leader since 1993, he has transformed New Era into the No. 1 headwear brand, with 65 million caps sold annually in more than 125 countries, and 650-plus licensing partnerships with sports and entertainment properties including MLB, NBA, NFL, NCAA and Disney. A champion for Western New York, Koch secured an economic win for the region and its workforce when he moved New Era’s world headquarters to downtown Buffalo. He later shifted all the company’s U.S. manufacturing operations to its Derby plant. Under his leadership, New Era is an equally strong supporter of the area’s health and well-being. The company is a generous benefactor to Roswell Park’s new Clinical Sciences Center, the soon-to-be-completed John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital and many other organizations and causes. The Regents Scholarship Ball is the principal fundraiser for the Board of Regents Scholarship Fund, which provides financial support to Canisius students. Tickets for the event are now on sale. Visit canisius.edu/regentsball for more information or call Cecelia R. Gotham, assistant director of stewardship, at 716-888-8228.

DONOR PROFILE: Jamel C. Perkins

Graciously giving back to the community he loves Jamel C. Perkins ’97, MBA ’02, MS ’05, is passionate about his job but not entirely for traditional reasons. Instead, his position as a technology executive for Sodexo, a world leader in quality of life services, provides him with a means to an end. “My job enables me to give back to the community,” Perkins says. His attitude wasn’t always so altruistic. Growing up, Perkins’ goals were more materialistic, he concedes. “I wanted to earn enough money to buy myself a big house and a big boat.” Perkins learned the true meaning of altruism a bit later in life when his father’s battle with cancer forced him to retire from the job that helped put Perkins through Canisius. “My father gave his all so opportunities could be available to me,” he says. Now, Perkins is committed to doing the same for others. He is a volunteer and charitable contributor to the Food Bank of Western New York, Hospice and the Boys and Girls Club of Buffalo. Perkins also serves on the National Academy Foundation (NAF) board of directors for the West Seneca and Hamburg school districts. The foundation works to include industry-specific STEM curricula and learning experiences in local school districts.

He is a generous financial supporter of the Canisius Fund and the Master of Business of Administration Scholarship Fund. Perkins is also a new member of the Leadership Society. He is equally generous in his efforts to enhance the alumni and academic life of the college. Perkins serves on the Master of Business Administration Alumni Board and on the Canisius Fund Cabinet. But it’s his role as an adjunct professor of marketing and information systems that he finds most meaningful. “The late Dr. Linda Volonino (professor of information systems), was very influential to me professionally and personally,” recalls Perkins. “I admired her wealth of knowledge and like her, I try to incorporate real-world experiences into the classroom.” For Perkins, they’re experiences that brought him full circle. “The educational and social experiences I gained at Canisius truly shaped me into the person I am today,” he concludes. “I am happy to pass what I have learned to the next generation of Canisius students.” For more information on how you can support Canisius, contact Dianna Civello, associate vice president for institutional advancement, at 716-888-8220 or at civellod@canisius.edu.

Canisius College is also a beneficiary of Perkins’ generosity. WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

alumnispotlight

Inspired to Serve Vincent D. Clark ’97 carves out a career that empowers others Story: Kristin E. Etu ’91 / Photography: Tom Wolf ’86

Vincent D. Clark ’97 and his siblings grew up in poverty on Buffalo’s East Side. But circumstances were never an excuse for the Clark family, which was always at the ready to help a neighbor in need.

Clark sought to follow the same path and was accepted at Canisius on a partial scholarship.

“My parents told us that wherever we are ought to be a better place for us being there or we have wasted our God-given opportunities,” Clark says.

That, and so much more.

Clark took these words to heart and the Buffalo region – its economy, educational institutions, faith community and the disadvantaged – is better because he did. “Much of my work has been to establish, nurture and leverage mutually beneficial relationships to move the region forward,” Clark explains. “But at the end of the day, it’s really about the ways we can make this community work for the people.” African Americans, other minorities and the less fortunate now have a better chance at success because of Clark’s efforts on behalf of the Buffalo Urban League. As vice president of development and communications, he helped raise $3 million for the organization’s educational programs, which include scholarship support, career exploration, life skills and vocational training. Clark also played a key leadership role in the development of the University at Buffalo’s strategic campaign, UB 2020. In his role as director of community relations, he organized a coalition of support to secure landmark legislative reforms that enabled UB to advance research, discovery and economic promise in downtown Buffalo. Clark similarly planned and implemented UB/BPS, a partnership that prepares K-12 students for college. It’s the kind of academic support Clark wishes he received growing up. “It wasn’t until I came to Canisius that I received the education that set the course for my future,” he says. The political science major always had his sights set on Canisius. He grew up near the college and admired two of its most prominent political graduates, Buffalo Mayor Anthony M. Masiello ’69 and Congressman John J. LaFalce ’61.

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE WINTER 2017

“For a kid from a distressed neighborhood, it was like I gained admittance to an exclusive club.” Clark became the first African American president of the college’s Undergraduate Student Association. He “reluctantly” ran for office at the urging of two mentors. “They saw leadership potential in me when I couldn’t see it for myself,” Clark says, speaking about Martha A. Veasey ’82, MS ’89, former director of community relations and disability support services, and Sababu C. Norris, director of the ALANA Student Center. That first leadership position opened doors for Clark. After graduation, he landed a job as senior advisor to U.S. Rep. Jack Quinn (NY-27, NY-30). Responsible for federal grants, appropriations, labor, housing and education issues, Clark is proud to have “helped direct resources for much of the development happening today on Buffalo’s medical campus and waterfront.” And though his latest pos tion – raising scholarship support for students at Stony Brook University – takes him away from his beloved city, Clark continues to work on behalf of Western New York. Every other weekend he returns to New Directions Christian Fellowship on Fillmore Avenue, where he is an assistant pastor. Clark is also a regular at alma mater. He is a new member of the Board of Regents and assumed a leadership role on the planning committee for the 2018 Jubilee Celebration for the Afro American Society. “Canisius laid the foundation for my career empowering others,” says Clark, who truly earned his place as a distinguished member of the “exclusive club” he once admired from afar.

alumnispotlight

“They saw leadership potential in me when I couldn’t see it for myself,” Vincent D. Clark ’97

Canisius students substitute classroom learning for experiential opportunities that take them thousands of miles from 2001 Main Street Story: Audrey R. Browka

Dr. Seuss had it right. There’s plenty to find if you don’t stay behind. Just ask today’s Canisius students, more and more of whom are substituting classroom learning for experiential opportunities, often thousands of miles from Main Street. Some simply want international exposure. Others seek a sense of purpose. Sometimes, it’s a student’s field of study that requires travel abroad. No matter, the idea of the world as a classroom is one that Canisius College takes seriously. “Experiential learning is fundamental to a Canisius education because engagement with the world and the people in it can transform a student's perspective and lead to deeper understanding and meaningful action,” says Margaret C. McCarthy MS ’87, PhD, vice president for academic affairs. With 50-plus global immersion opportunities available, Canisius students study on every continent, including Antarctica! Beginning in fall 2017, students will be able to spend a semester exploring the rich historical sites and cultural beauty of Suzhou, China - Canisius’ newest study abroad opportunity. Whether they stay an entire semester or just one week, embarking on an international immersion experience requires students to navigate outside their comfort zones, introduces them to new cultures, arouses their independence and occasionally exposes them to adversity. When they return home, students inevitably share stories of how much they valued their time abroad and how much it changed them. “The ideal abroad experience is when students come back with a new appreciation not only for where they come from but where others come from, as well,” says Brian P. Smith, director of international partnerships and study abroad at Canisius. “That’s often what shapes what they do in their lives and on behalf of others. That’s when we know they’ll succeed.” And that (in the words of Dr. Seuss), is 98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed!

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE WINTER 2017

WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

Every semester new opportunities in traditional and non-traditional fields promise Canisius students intellectual and cultural learning adventures abroad. Canisius Magazine will bring you these stories as part of a new travel feature. In this issue, Canisius business students get a lesson on sustainable development in a part of the world undergoing rapid transformation.

Canisius students work alongside the underprivileged in Santo Antonio, Brazil to help beautify their school, Hervalina Diniz, with a mural that illustrates the many different trees found in the rainforest region. The Canisius trip to Brazil was made possible, in part, by the William H. Fitzpatrick Institute of Public Affairs & Leadership.

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE WINTER 2017

People, Planet and Profits

Canisius business students travel below the equator to study sustainability Nestled in the tropical Atlantic Rainforest of Brazil (Mata Atlântica), just a half hour northeast of Rio de Janeiro, is one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Rich with thousands of bird, mammal and reptile species, these 400 acres beyond the Santo Antonio valley are similarly lush with vegetation varieties found nowhere else on Earth. Such fertile habitat makes this portion of Brazil an environmental treasure. But as a group of Canisius students learned, the region is – quite literally – fighting for its life. “Due to urban expansion and encroachment on the Atlantic Rainforest, the region’s biodiversity is seriously threatened,” says Brian M. Sas ’06, MBA ’12. In 2012, Sas was the first Canisius student to travel to the Rio de Janeiro region of Brazil to see firsthand how the country is struggling to reconcile the rewards of economic growth with the sustainable development of its natural resources. Twentythree undergraduate and graduate students have since followed. Based on a simple principle, sustainable development is defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising those of future generations. Being sustainable in business is a modus operandi that “takes into account economic prosperity, environmental quality and social justice – or more simply – people, planet and profits,” explains Management Professor Coral R. Snodgrass, PhD, who leads the Brazil trip. “It requires a holistic approach,” adds her colleague Ronald M. Rivas, PhD. “One that considers a company’s entire value chain – from the origins of its raw materials to the elimination of waste during the production process and ultimately, how the product is reused, reduced or recycled.” Though once a buzzword, being green is going mainstream.

“Sinal is a living laboratory for social innovators,” Corral explains. “They come here to design, experiment and implement practical and sustainable solutions to problems we face.” Working alongside them are Canisius students who engage in modest but meaningful green initiatives, in a region “void of such basic services as running water, electricity and sanitation infrastructure,” Sarah Battaglia Hrywnak MBA ’16 says. Students experiment with bio-construction, using ecological building methods and materials, such as bamboo, to design dry toilets, greenhouses and compost systems. Also in Sinal, Canisius students assist underserved families from nearby rural communities to clear trash from the streets and turn that into treasure for their schools. They refashion discarded tires and wood pallets into furniture, refill empty soda bottles with beans to make maracas for music instruction and recycle broken pieces of glass and tile to create colorful art for the walls. “The people here have very little but they really taught us to rethink what we (Americans) see as waste and consider how it can be reused or recycled into something new and purposeful,” Angel Saldivar ’18 says. Together with local farmers, students plant organic gardens and “learn the agriculture techniques necessary to restore the soil and preserve the rainforest,” recalls Arena. They also participate in an extensive restoration and reforestation project supported largely by Dannon. An industry leader in the sale of bottled water, Dannon’s supply of water is endangered due to the destruction of the rainforest.

Sustainable development is becoming an integral part of the corporate business model “as companies realize the significant cost savings, new business opportunities and increased consumer demand – particularly among millennials – for eco-friendly products,” says Snodgrass.

“I saw, firsthand, just how everything is interconnected,” Arena says. “Environmental justice is economic justice and economic justice is social justice.”

This corporate drive toward sustainability is fueling a need for business professionals “who understand the complex nature of sustainable development and are equipped to develop profitable eco-friendly policies and products,” Rivas says.

Sas remains actively involved in Sinal, working with Thais Corral to spread awareness on the importance of regeneration and lifesustaining business models.

The trip to Brazil provides a formidable training ground for Canisius’ business students. “Every single thing we did was eye-opening and taught me that it’s possible to live and do business in more conscious ways,” says Shelby Arena ’16. Sinal do Vale serves as the home base for students during their 10-day stay. The 400-acre sanctuary is “guardian to this threatened portion of the Mata Atlântica,” says Sinal’s founder, Thais Corral. The Atlantic Rainforest, Corral explains, once encompassed 330 million acres, about twice the size of Texas. Only 13 percent remains today. Much has been lost to logging for urban sprawl, deforestation for agriculture and biofuels, and clearing for cattle ranching. 15

The people of Sinal do Vale work to reverse the degradation of the rainforest, which regulates their climate, prevents soil erosion and provides shelter to the indigent. Many modern medicines also originate from plant life found in the rainforest.

CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGAZINE WINTER 2017

With this in mind, students return home eager to live, learn and do business in sustainable ways.

Arena says the Brazil trip “transformed her life.” She is now in Costa Rica pursuing a master’s degree in sustainable agriculture. Saldivar is brainstorming sustainable ideas to help the Boys & Girls Club on Buffalo’s West Side. He’s using the lessons he learned about recycling and reuse, from Brazil’s marginalized children, as his inspiration. And Hrywnak launched her own start-up business since returning from Brazil. “At Olive Ridley, we divert excess and unused latex paint from disposal and recycle it into second generation, high-quality paint products,” she explains. By building a business and a better world, Hrywnak and others of her generation are helping to secure a greener, more sustainable future for people - and the planet.

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Road Scholars

The idea of the world as a classroom is one Canisius takes seriously. This map provides a snapshot of the countries and continents where students bring their Canisius educations to life.

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4 17 21 22

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STUDY ABROAD LOCATIONS IN 15 COUNTRIES 17

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Queensland, Australia Antwerp, Belgium Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Suzhou, China San Salvador, El Salvador London, England Lille, France Paris, France

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Strasbourg, France Berlin, Germany Dortmund, Germany Eichstatt, Germany Galway, Ireland Florence, Italy Rome, Italy

British Columbia, Canada Observe orcas, humpback and gray whales

Toronto, Canada International relations majors visit the U.S. Consulate

Ontario, Canada Study the differences in bubbles blown by beluga whales

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Tokyo, Japan Lima, Peru Glasgow, Scotland Seoul, South Korea Barcelona, Spain Oviedo, Spain Madrid, Spain

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Quepos, Costa Rica Experience ecotourism and explore rainforest conservation

Córdoba, Argentina Make a pilgrimage to the homeland of Pope Francis

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador Investigate stopover ecology of bird migration

County Clare, Ireland Visit the Cliffs of Moher

Ottawa, Canada French students improve their conversational skills

Andes Mountains, Ecuador Observe monkeys, tapirs, macaws, caiman in one of world’s most biodiverse habitats

London, England Research what it’s like to do business in the European Union

Guatemala City, Guatemala Discover stories of hope and strength among the Mayan people

Havana, Cuba Explore Cuban politics and social history

Oviedo, Spain Future educators teach English to Spanish-speaking children

Kingston, Jamaica Assist on a food security farm for the poor

Florence, Italy Study Renaissance art

Santo Antonio, Brazil Study sustainable development in business

Enschede, Netherlands Participate in EuroSim, an intercollegiate simulation of the European Union

San Salvador, El Salvador Help rebuild a war-torn village El Crucero, Nicaragua Pre-med students host clinics in this medically underserved region

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2 7 8 9

10 11 12 14

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15 19 16

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Berlin, Germany Examine two millennia of GermanJewish history at the Jewish Museum

Nuremberg, Germany Tour site of Nuremberg War trials

Prague, Czech Republic Commemorate victims of Nazi persecution at Terezín Memorial

Lodz, Poland Tour the Jewish Ghetto, established by Nazi German authorities for Polish Jews

Wroclaw, Poland Participate in EuroSim, an intercollegiate simulation of the European Union

Żmiąca, Poland Volunteer at a summer camp for orphaned and at-risk children

Riga, Latvia ROTC cadets assist with English instruction for Latvian students

Bucharest, Romania ROTC cadets assist with English instruction for Romanian students

Tanzania, Africa Examine the region’s ecosystem, up close

Lajuma, South Africa Conduct field research on highland wildlife

Chennai, India Serve the “untouchable” Dalit

Sri Lanka Investigate the natural habitat of the Asian elephant

Antarctic Peninsula Participate in a polar expedition focused on marine mammals

Manila, Philippines Delve into the history, politics and religion of the region

Queensland, Australia Observe kangaroo behavior

facultyresearch

CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGAZINE WINTER 2017

Mistaken Identification Associate Professor of Psychology Charles A. Goodsell, PhD, investigates the fallibility of eyewitness identification Story: Audrey R. Browka / Photography: Tom Wolf ’86

Aside from DNA evidence, nothing carries as much weight with a jury as eyewitness testimony. Yet faulty eyewitness identification is the single greatest cause of wrongful convictions in the criminal justice system. “More than 70 percent of 347 exonerations that have taken place, to date in the U.S., were the result of mistaken eyewitness identification,” says Charles A. Goodsell, PhD. New research by the associate professor of cognitive psychology reveals the culprit may lie within eyewitness identification methods routinely used by law enforcement. Funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation, Goodsell’s research tested the fallibility of show-ups and lineups. A show-up, Goodsell explains, occurs immediately or shortly after a crime. Police apprehend a suspect and bring him or her back to the scene to be identified by a witness. During a lineup, which takes place at a police station, an eyewitness is asked to identify an alleged perpetrator out of a group of (usually six) individuals. “Lineups outperformed show-ups in each of the scenarios tested,” says Goodsell, who was surprised by the findings. “Basic research tells us that memory doesn’t get better with time so it would seem that a show-up is a more accurate test of memory simply because it’s done so soon after the crime whereas a lineup places greater demands on the memory because it takes place days, sometimes weeks after a crime.” Additional research revealed clues as to why lineups may be more accurate. “A lineup forces witnesses to probe their memories deeper, to look at, compare and discount distinguishing features among lineup members.” This, Goodsell continues, “results in better discrimination between guilty and innocent.” Goodsell’s research also found evidence that lineups are less biased than show-ups. Often in a show-up, the suspect is in handcuffs or in the back of a police car. “This is inherently suggestive and can negatively impact witness identification, whether consciously or unconsciously.” Independent of what type of identification method is used, Goodsell underscores that memory can be a fuzzy accomplice. “It’s a common misconception that the human mind works like a video camera, accurately recording events we see and hear, and ready to be played back later.” In reality he says, “memories are a reconstruction of the past, influenced by what was actually witnessed, expectations, interpretations and even other people’s recollections.” Despite any foolproof reliability of eyewitness identification, it remains one of the most persuasive forms of evidence. Until that is overturned, Goodsell will share his research to inform law enforcement, identify best practices and influence public policy, “so as to help make the criminal justice system more just.” Charles Goodsell conducted his research in collaboration with Scott D. Gronlund, PhD, from the University of Oklahoma and Jeffrey S. Neuschatz, PhD, from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Their findings have been published in several scientific journals and served as the basis for a chapter in the new book Advances in Psychology and Law.

WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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Recommended Reading Canisius’ IAR finds more success for kids on the spectrum The latest study released by the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) shows more promise that a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder no longer guarantees a difficult life for children. According to the findings, summerMAX, the IAR’s treatment program for children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD), can successfully be applied in a community-based setting. “The IAR wanted to determine whether a local community service agency could feasibly implement the summerMAX program and achieve the same successful outcomes that we saw in university-based trials,” explains IAR co-director Marcus L. Thomeer, PhD. To do this, the IAR partnered with Autism Services Inc. The agency independently managed and administered all aspects of the summerMAX program and found it to be highly effective. Children demonstrated increased understanding of nonliteral language and use of social skills, and a substantial decrease in the severity of autism spectrum symptoms. “This was an important finding because it suggests that community–agency providers can achieve similar treatment gains in applied settings,” says James P. Donnelly, PhD, a co-investigator on the study. The study was funded by the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation and the findings appeared in the December 2016 Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. WEB EXTRA > Read more about the IAR treatment program at canisius.edu/magazine

A good book is always a great way to stave off cabin fever. In this issue, Canisius Magazine asks Communication Studies Professor Melissa B. Wanzer, EdD, to share what’s on her nightstand. The Sibling Effect: What the Bonds Among Brothers and Sisters Reveal About Us by Jeffrey Kluger This book explores the significance of the bonds that we establish with our siblings, as well as the skills that we acquire from these lifelong relationships. Wanzer is the author of Interpersonal Communication: Building Rewarding Relationships. The recently released book, which she co-authored with Kristen Campbell Eichhorn ’99, PhD, examines the societal, cultural and technological changes that now influence how people communicate. WEB EXTRA > Check out what’s “In Print” by Canisius faculty at canisius.edu/magazine.

Chimps Choose Cooperation New research from the Department of Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation (ABEC) challenges the perception that humans are unique in their ability to cooperate. Instead, the study’s author, Assistant Professor Malini C. Suchak, PhD, suggests “the roots of human cooperation are shared with chimpanzees.” To determine if chimpanzees possess the same ability as humans, Suchak set up a cooperative task that presented 11 chimpanzees with thousands of opportunities to pull at an apparatus filled with rewards. “The setup was designed to provide ample opportunities for competition, aggression and freeloading,” explains Suchak. “But when given the choice between competing or cooperating, the chimpanzees chose to cooperate five times more frequently.” Luke F. Quarles ’17 assisted Suchak in her research, which was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

alumninotes 1950s '59 BS James A. DiCarlo, PhD, retired as senior technologist in the Materials and Structures Division at the NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, OH, where he worked for more than 40 years. DiCarlo is internationally recognized for the development of advanced ceramic composite materials for high temperature structural applications and has been listed in Who's Who in America.

1960s '61 BS Frederick G. Attea, a partner with Phillips Lytle LLP, was selected for the Upstate New York Super Lawyers® list and recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list. '63 BA James N. Schmit, an employment and labor attorney with Bond, Schoeneck & King, was selected for the Upstate New York Super Lawyers® list and was recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list. '64 BA Joseph M. Hassett, PhD, counsel with Hogan Lovells LLP in Washington, D.C., authored the book The Ulysses Trials: Beauty and Truth Meet the Law. '66 BA Donald A. Alessi, attorney and owner of Alessi Law, was re-elected chair of the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park Board of Directors.

'68 BA Terrence M. Connors, a partner with Connors LLP, was named chair of the University at Buffalo Law School's Advocacy Institution National Advisory Board. '69 MBA Anthony N. Diina, president and chief executive officer of Metro Insight Inc., was elected vice chair of the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park Board of Directors. '69 BA Norbert R. Myslinski, PhD, associate professor of neuroscience at the University of Maryland, received the prestigious Science Educator of the Year Award, presented by the Society for Neuroscience. Myslinski created and leads the International Brain Bee, a neuroscience competition for teenagers.

1970s '70 BS Thomas A. Palmer, an attorney with Bond, Schoeneck & King, was recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list. '71 BA LeRoi C. Johnson, attorney at the Law Office of LeRoi C. Johnson Attorney, was featured in an ArtTour International magazine article, titled “Electric Primitive: The Art of LeRoi C. Johnson.” The magazine also named Johnson one of the Top 60 Masters of Contemporary Art. '71 BA Gary F. Kotaska, a partner with Phillips Lytle LLP, was selected for the

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Upstate New York Super Lawyers® list and was recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list.

of Companies. He was a senior vice president and business banking market manager for Citizens Bank.

'72 BA, HON '15 Catherine M. (Lindquist) Burzik, chief executive officer and president of CFB Interests LLC in San Antonio, TX, was appointed to the Haemonetics Corp. Board of Directors.

'82 BS Michael F. Ickowski is the new vice president and chief financial officer for Regional West Health Services. He was the chief financial officer of Eastern Niagara Health System.

'74 BA William J. Greener, an intellectual property attorney with Bond, Schoeneck & King, was recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list.

'82 BA Mark S. Zirnheld was appointed chief executive officer of the Buffalo Society of St. Vincent de Paul, where he has been executive director since 1989.

'74 BA, MBA '82, MBAACC '91 Michael J. Neff, chief financial officer for the Laguna Blanca School in Santa Barbara, CA, was elected to the Board of Trustees of the Independent Schools Business Officers Association of California. '75 BA John C. Corbelli, MD, is a new medical staff officer for Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He has been with the VA Western New York Healthcare system since 2012 and will continue as a clinical associate professor of medicine at the University at Buffalo. '76 BA Frank C. Barnashuk, a clinical assistant professor and director of the Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program for the University at Buffalo Dental School, was named trustee for the eighth district of the New York State Dental Association. ’76 BA Cynthia L. Skrzycki, senior lecturer in the Department of English at the University of Pittsburgh, was selected to receive the 2017 Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award. The award recognizes outstanding and innovative teaching in undergraduate studies. '77 BS Alan D. Jankowski was promoted from financial controller to chief financial officer for Bak USA. '77 BS Mary F. (Jenkins) Roberts, executive director of the Martin House Restoration Corp., was named chairelect for the Visit Buffalo Niagara Board of Directors.

1980s '81 BS Christine A. (Bald) Newhouse, controller for the American Bureau of Collections, was named chair of the Western Division Federal Credit Union Board of Directors.

Salvatore Buscaglia ’76, MS ’90 BS Accounting, MS Physical Education Career Highlight: Salvatore Buscaglia retired as the head coach for women’s basketball at Robert Morris University (RMU) in Moon Township, PA, after a nearly 40-year career. Career Notes: Buscaglia is RMU's all-time winningest coach with a 225-178 record. He led Robert Morris to six postseason national tournaments, including four NCAA Division I championship appearances.

'81 BS, MBA '89 Richard W. Spears is the new senior research director for market intelligence with Pathfinder, a strategic market research and business intelligence company. He was the senior research director with Focused Marketing Associates, which was recently acquired by FARM and rebranded as Pathfinder. '82 BS, MBA '87 Anthony J. Carroll is the correspondent commercial mortgage banker for the Largo Group

'83 BA Kevin J. English, a partner with Phillips Lytle LLP, was selected for the Upstate New York Super Lawyers® list and was recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list. '83 BS Patrick W. Finucane, chief financial officer for Ronco Communications and Electronics Inc., was named chair of the InfoTech WNY Board of Directors. '83 BS Joseph R. Simpson is the new director of enterprise risk management and business continuity planning with HealthNow New York Inc. He was the chief audit executive for First Niagara Bank. '84 BA Andrea R. (Emery) Bortner is the new senior vice president and chief human resources officer with SSL MDA Holdings Inc. in San Francisco, CA. She is the former chief human resources officer for Catalina Marketing. '84 BS Michael L. Bradley, senior vice president and chief financial officer for NOCO Energy Group, was named chair of the Western & Central New York chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Board of Volunteer Trustees. '84 BS Patrick L. Emmerling, an estate and probate attorney with Bond, Schoeneck & King, was selected for the Upstate New York Super Lawyers® list and was recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list. '84 BA Richard T. Saraf, a partner with Kenney Shelton Liptak and Nowak LLP, was named legal counsel for the Insurance Club of Buffalo Board of Directors. '85 Julie (Zito) Clark is the new director of marketing, special events and projects with the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. She was the marketing director for the Fashion Outlets of America. '85 BS Robert P. Hasselbeck is the new implementation specialist for the nonprofit technology division of Brisbane Consulting Group LLC. He was the cost accountant with Baker Victory Services Inc. '85 BS Peter F. Seitz, a sales support specialist and energy efficiency analyst for National Grid, was named treasurer and secretary of the Western Division Federal Credit Union Board of Directors.

WINTE R 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

'86 BA Laura A. (Montante) Zaepfel, vice president of corporate relations for Uniland Development Company, was elected to a three-year term on the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park's Board of Directors. '87 MS Margaret C. McCarthy, PhD, vice president for academic affairs at Canisius College, was appointed vice chair of the Catholic Schools Advisory Council by the Diocese of Buffalo.

'90 BA Douglas E. Haak Jr., captain of police for the Lockport Police Department, was named to the Family and Children's Service of Niagara Board of Directors. '90 BS Carl G. Mattacola, PhD, was promoted to associate dean for academic and faculty affairs in the College of Health Sciences at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, KY. He was the director of the Division of Athletic Training at the university.

and logistics, contract manufacturing, and toppings, crèmes and culinary solutions. '91 BS Amber L. Slichta is the new vice president of programs for the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation. She was vice president for the Community Health Foundation of Western and Central New York. '92 BA Karl M. Myles, an attorney and owner of The Law Firm of Karl Myles, opened Talk Coffee in Buffalo’s Hamlin Park neighborhood. '92 MPA, MBA '98 Ellen R. Christy is the new chair of the Supervisory Committee for the Western Division Federal Credit Union Board of Directors.

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'93 BA Daniel P. O'Neill, president and chief executive officer for Beechwood Continuing Care, was named co-vice president of the Summit Center Board of Directors. '93 MBA Michael J. Prendergast, vice president and senior relationship manager in the commercial banking division for M&T Bank, was elected chair of the Food Bank of Western New York’s Board of Directors. '93 BS Mary L. (Szewc) Shetler was promoted from manager to senior manager with Tronconi Segarra & Associates.

Anthony Cassiol ’88, MBA ’90 BS Finance, MBA Business Administration Career Highlight: Anthony Cassiol received the Franklin Family YMCA Volunteer of the Year Award. He was recognized for helping to secure thousands of dollars for the organization’s annual campaign and actively recruiting new volunteers to the YMCA. Career Notes: Cassiol is a senior vice president and relationship manager for commercial banking with CapStar Bank in Nashville, TN.

'88 BS Brendan M. Harrington, chief financial officer for Computer Task Group Inc., was named chair of the Mental Health Association of Erie County Board of Directors.

1990s '90 BA Elizabeth (Catanese) Waite, a math teacher for the Union-Endicott School District in Endicott, was selected to serve a four-year term on the Professional Standards and Practices Board for Teaching at the New York State Education Department. She recently concluded a year as president of the Association of Mathematics Teachers of NYS.

'90 BA Cindy L. (Jones) Odom is the new executive director of communitybased services for the Hillside Family of Agencies, Western region. She was the council leadership strategist for Girl Scouts of the USA. '91 BA Frank J. Fialkiewicz II was promoted to origination manager for Fairport Mortgage’s Buffalo Office. He was the owner of American Equity Services Inc. '91 MBA Dan R. Gagliardo, owner of D'Avolio Olive Oils, Vinegars & More, was named chair of the Independent Health Foundation Board of Directors. '91 BS, MBA '98 Martin P. Hurley was promoted from vice president of planning and contract manufacturing at Rich Products Corp. to vice president of global customer service

'94 BA Rosanna Berardi, managing partner of Berardi Immigration Law, was appointed director for the American Chamber of Commerce Peel-HaltonNiagara Region. '94 BA Matthew J. Igoe is the new vice president of service design and performance for BNSF Railroad in Fort Worth, TX. He was the general superintendent of transportation. '94 BA Brenda B. Mikolajczak is the new marketing and sales director for Lake Shore Bancorp. She was a bank officer and retail sales leader for Evans Bank. '94 BS, MBA '95 Heath J. Szymczak, a business litigation attorney with Bond, Schoeneck & King, was selected for the Upstate New York Super Lawyers® list. '95 BS, MBA '03 Steven M. Czajkowski is the new vice president for market and business intelligence with Pathfinder, a strategic market research and business intelligence company. He was the vice president with Focused Marketing Associates, which was recently acquired by FARM and rebranded as Pathfinder. '95 BA Brian C. Kantz, publications editor at Buffalo State College, won two gold awards in the CASE Northeast District Competition. Kantz was recognized for an article he wrote for the alumni magazine and for his work on the college’s annual report.

'95 BA, MS '98 Kenneth L. Kraft, a senior technical project manager with International Game Technology (IGT) in Las Vegas, NV, was elected chair of the North Las Vegas Planning Commission. '95 BS Darcy M. (Rowe) Norfolk founded Agency Accelerate, a business management and operations consulting firm. She will continue her work as a realtor with Merrill L. Thomas Inc. and as a consultant for Adworkshop in Lake Placid, NY. '95 MBA Robert E. Rich III, president of ROAR Logistics Inc., had the honor of naming Roary, one of three lion cubs born at the Buffalo Zoo in May 2016. ROAR Logistics is the title sponsor of the Big Cats Exhibit at the Zoo, which was designed to promote conservation and provide an environment in which the Zoo’s lions can thrive. '96 BA Kaia (Willikens) Forget was promoted to director of community development for Orlando City Soccer Club, a preeminent soccer club with three major professional teams. Forget leads community relations and philanthropic efforts for the organization. '96 BS Jeannette S. Kreher, administrative operations manager for Kreher's Farm Fresh Eggs, was named to the Ten Thousand Villages of Western New York Board of Directors and is the special events liaison. '97 BS John Connerton, senior vice president and chief financial officer for Evans Bank, was named president of the Cantalician Center for Learning Board of Directors. '98 BS Gina M. Cartenuto, vice president of finance and corporate treasurer for the Erie and Niagara Insurance Association, was elected secretary and treasurer of the Insurance Club of Buffalo Board of Directors. '98 BS Sarah L. Clare, a partner with Dopkins & Company LLP, was named to the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County Board of Directors. '98 MBA Christine A. Czech-Mann is the new director of infusion for the Dent Neurologic Institution. She was the chief operating officer for Buffalo Rheumatology. '98 BA Audrey A. (Barr) Seeley, a partner with Hurwitz & Fine PC, was selected for the Upstate New York Super Lawyers® list and was recognized on the 2017 Best Lawyers in America© list. She was also elected to a three-year term as national director of the Defense Research Institute (DRI). '99 MBA Jeffrey G. Wagner, lead program manager for National Grid, was named to the Western Division Federal Credit Union Board of Directors. '99 BS George T. Wands was promoted from internal audit manager to director of internal audit for Independent Health.

alumninotes '00 BS Rebecca A. Haslinger is the new vice president of finance at Kaleida Health. She was director of business finance for HealthNow New York Inc. '00 BA Randall A. Hoak is the new associate state director of community outreach for AARP New York. He was the senior services commissioner for Erie County.

'03 BA, MS '07 Michelle (Slawiak) Held is the new director of philanthropy research and strategy for Hilbert College. She was the campaign director for Genesee Community College. '03 BS Jennifer A. (Moore) Kartychak is a new principal at Lumsden & McCormick LLP. She was the manager of corporate accounting for Moog Inc.

'00 MBA Andrew Severson is the new vice president for operations with Compu-Mail Direct Marketing. He was president of Armstrong Brands Inc.

'03 BS Kathryn R. Smith was promoted from vice president to administrative vice president and leadership development manager for M&T Bank.

2000s

'03 BS Timothy P. Stone is the new director of operations for the Westin Buffalo. He was the general manager of Hampton Inn Buffalo.

'01 BS Maureen (DelPlato) Braunscheidel is the new assistant superintendent of instruction, assessment and staff development for the Starpoint Central School District. She was principal of Starpoint’s Douglas J. Regan Intermediate School. '01 BS Thaddeus P. Borowiak was promoted to wealth manager for United Capital Financial Life Management. He was the senior relationship manager. '01 MS Sr. Mary Louis Rustowicz, CSSF, was promoted from mission leader to vice president of mission for Villa Maria College. '01 BA Jillian M. Warner was recognized by the Continental Who's Who as a Pinnacle Professional in the field of higher education for her work as an adjunct faculty member at Canisius College and as a doctoral student at the University at Buffalo. '02 MS Cheri L. Carroll-Alvarez is the new chief operating officer for the YWCA of WNY. She oversees operations of children and youth services, housing services and senior living. She previously served as interim chief executive officer for Cradle Beach. '02 MBA John T. Gavigan, executive director of 43North, was named to the Summit Center Board of Directors. '02 BS Erin L. Haskell was promoted from senior media planner and buyer to media supervisor for Crowley Webb. '02 BS Peter S. Martin Jr., MD, a child and adolescent psychiatrist for Erie County Medical Center, was named to the Mental Health Association of Erie County Board of Directors. '02 MS, MSED '11 Jill A. (Monkelbaan) Monaco is the new assistant principal for Cardinal O'Hara High School. She was the principal of Immaculata Academy. '03 BS, MBAPA '07 Robert F. Fahey III is a new investment advisor and insurance representative at Robert F. Fahey Jr. and Associates. He was an accountant for Skrobacz & Company CPAs PC.

'03 BA Rev. Robert W. Zilliox Jr. was appointed pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Bowmansville. He will continue to serve as judge and defender of the bond in the Tribunal of the Diocese of Buffalo. '04 BS Kristen M. Covino, PhD, is a new post-doctoral fellow in the Biology Department at Canisius College. '04 BS John E. Daughton was promoted to partner at Vanner Insurance Agency. He will also continue as vice president of sales. '04 BS Timothy M. Korn, manager of IT assurance with Dopkins & Company LLP, passed the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam. '04 BS Susan A. (Lundquist) O'Sullivan, vice president of advanced solutions for Ingram Micro Inc., was named vice chair of the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County Board of Directors.

'06 BA Stacey L. (Budzinski) Moar was named a senior associate at Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP, where she practices commercial litigation and governmental investigations/ enforcement actions.

'08 BS Nicolo Visconti is a new toxicologist for Monsanto in the Global Regulatory Sciences group in St. Louis, MO. He was a molecular toxicology specialist at the Dow Chemical Company in Midland, MI.

'06 MBA Matthew J. Skinner was promoted to director of finance for Delaware North's travel hospitality business. He was director of finance for Hamburg Gaming Company of Delaware North.

'08 Demaree S. Walsh is a new volunteer coordinator for The Salvation Army Buffalo. '09 MS Alison Barone, a physical education and health instructor for PS 43 Lovejoy Discovery School, won the grand prize in the eighth annual M&T Bank Touchdown for Teachers program.

'07 BA Joseph P. Heins was promoted from associate to senior associate for Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP. '08 BS Drew B. Brown is a new marketing coordinator with Visit Buffalo Niagara. He was an account executive for Strategic Asset Management. '08 MS Kathryn M. Graf, director of alumni relations for Daemen College, was named an Outstanding Adviser by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Affiliated Student Advancement Programs in District II. '08 BS Gregory H. Straus, chief financial officer and real estate broker for HusVar Properties and the president of Redline Rentals of Buffalo, was listed among Buffalo's Business First 30 Under Thirty honorees.

'09 BA, MSED '12 Thomas M. Betrus, a fourth-grade teacher at Marilla Primary School, was a finalist in the eighth annual M&T Bank Touchdown for Teachers program. '09 BA Jessica L. (Aliotta) Donhauser, MD, is the new clinical associate professor of pediatrics for the University at Buffalo and a physician in the division of general pediatrics at Women & Children's Hospital of Buffalo. She was a pediatric resident with University at Buffalo. '09 BS, MBAACC '10 Alexander D. Schmidt was promoted from senior tax accountant to supervisor for Freed Maxick CPAs PC.

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'04 BS, MBA '05 Mary B. Rajczak was promoted from vice president to administrative vice president and consumer credit card product manager for M&T Bank. '05 BS Denisha J. (Alexander) Carswell is the new senior accountant with Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP. She is a former tax accountant for WeiserMazars LLP in New York, NY. '05 BS Andrew P. Devine, an associate for Phillips Lytle LLP, was selected for the Upstate New York Super Lawyers® Rising Star list. '05 BS Scott M. Dobosz, an agency management specialist for Selective Insurance, was named to the Insurance Club of Buffalo Board of Directors. '05 MBA John Gullo was promoted to chief investment officer for Sanderson Wealth Management. He continues to serve as chief operating officer. '05 BA Jennifer L. Huer is the new managing director of the Center for Health Policy & Law at Northeastern University School of Law in Boston, MA. She was a senior policy associate for the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission.

Chantele Thompson ’05 - BA Psychology Career Highlight: Chantele Thompson is the new director of community outreach for the Oracle Charter School in Buffalo, NY. Career Notes: Thompson previously served as director of managed care outpatient services at the New York State Office of Mental Health.

WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

2010s '10 BS, MBAACC '11 Matthew J. DeVincentis was promoted from senior accountant to manager with Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP. '10 MS Justin M. Johnston, director of development and gift officer for Daemen College, was named to the Center for Fundraising Innovation's Research Council of the Association for Fundraising Professionals. '10 BS, MS '11 Rebecca L. (Muench) Lankes is a tax manager with Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP. She was a senior accountant. '10 MBA Aidan G. McCarthy was promoted from vice president to senior vice president for food safety, quality assurance and regulatory affairs at Rich Products. '10 BS Ryan J. Meissner was promoted from print coordinator to brand strategist for Valu Home Centers. '10 BA Natalie J. Photiadis is the new assistant director for the Variety Club of Buffalo. She was an assistant at Duke, Holzman, Photiadis & Gresens LLP.

'11 BS Catherine C. Alsford is a new veterinarian at Nickel City Animal Hospital. She recently completed her doctorate in veterinary medicine at Ontario Veterinary College. '11 MBAPA Louis Disarno was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant with Freed Maxick CPAs PC. '11 MS Kristen N. (DeCarlo) Janosko is the new corporate communications manager for YourCare Health Plan. She was a marketing manager for Darien Lake. '11 BS Robert J. Stewart, PhD, is a new research chemist for Honeywell International Inc. He recently completed his doctorate in physical chemistry at Penn State University. '12 BS, MBAACC '13 Michael B. Allaire was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant with Freed Maxick CPAs PC. '12 BS, MBAACC '13 Jeremy R. Chopra was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant for Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP. '12 BA, MS '14 Erin R. Cleary is a new residence director at the University of

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Massachusetts Amherst. She was a residence director at Georgia Southern University.

'14 BS Brian J. Straka was promoted from marketing coordinator to communications manager at 43North.

'12 MS Colleen A. Politowski is the new principal of St. Andrew's Country Day School in Kenmore. She was the principal for St. John Vianney School.

'14 BA Lindsey Lauren S. Visser earned her master's degree in British and European history from the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.

'13 MS Catherine E. Clough was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant for Freed Maxick CPAs PC.

'15 BS, MBA '16 Julie M. Cipresso is a new associate for Freed Maxick CPAs PC.

'13 BS Abigail A. Formella is the new communications coordinator at the Chapin School in New York. She is the former marketing coordinator for Luciano Barbera, at the Italian clothing maker’s New York City showroom. '13 BS, MS '14 Griffin G. Jankowski was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant with Brock, Schechter & Polakoff LLP. '13 BS Terri A. Hanley is the new supervising senior accountant for Tronconi Segarra & Associates. She was a senior accountant with Acraca Zucareli Lenda & Straka CPAs PC. '13 BS, MBAACC '14 Nicholas J. Morrissey was promoted from staff accountant to senior accountant with Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP. '13 BA Nicholas P. Veronica is the new Buffalo Bills beat reporter for The Buffalo News. He was a sports clerk and digital writer. '13 MSED Gregory V. Voloshin, EdD, assistant principal and athletic director for Goshen Central School District in Orange County, earned his doctorate in educational leadership from St. John Fisher College. '13 MBA Daniel B. Weinstein was promoted from manager of competitive intelligence to director of strategy and competitive intelligence for HealthNow New York. '14 BA Molly A. Burhans, executive director and founder of Catholic Geographic Information Systems Center (GoodLands), participated in the Sustainable Development Solutions Network's Vatican Youth Symposium at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences in Vatican City in October 2016.

Nicole Kuhn ’16 (left) - BA Creative Writing, English Meghan Zickl ’16 (right)- BA Environmental Studies, Political Science/Urban Studies

'14 BS Eric D. Hammer is the new planner for the city of Cheyenne, WY. He recently graduated from the University at Buffalo Master of Urban Planning Program.

Career Highlight: Nicole Kuhn and Megan Zickl are fulfilling a year of voluntary service with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest.

'14 BA Roxanne L. Hernandez-Letteriello is the new volleyball coach with Mississippi University for Women, also known as the The W. She was an assistant coach at LIU Post.

Career Notes: Kuhn is working at the Paschal Sherman Indian School in Omak, WA. Zickl volunteers at the Tundra Women’s Coalition in Bethel, AR.

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE WINTER 2017

'14 MBA Bailey McGowan is the new engine cooling production scheduler at Aurubis Buffalo Inc. She was a systems support specialist with Kaleida Health.

'15 MS Rachael E. Burek is the new women's assistant lacrosse coach for Siena College in Loudonville, NY. She was the women's assistant lacrosse coach for Canisius College and Cornell University. '15 MBAPA Mark P. Kransler was promoted from staff accountant to senior account for Brock, Schechter & Polakoff LLP.

alumninotes

*Gary L. Steltermann ’10, MSA ’14 and Jennifer Pye October 1, 2016

Photo: Dawn M. Gibson Photography

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

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"CHEESE" Canisius Magazine is now accepting photos for the Alumni Notes section. If you would like to submit a picture to coincide with your alumni note, baby Griff or wedding announcement, simply email it to alumnote@canisius.edu.

Weddings Amanda R. Adolf '09 and Kyle Duncan April 30, 2016

Kalani Kapahua '13 and Sarah Clerc January 16, 2016

Catherine C. Alsford '11 and Robert J. Stewart '11, PhD July 23, 2016

*Anne M. LaPorte '13, MBA '14 and Joseph P. Fahey '14, MS '15 August 13, 2016

Katherine A. Bassanello '11 and Peter Capucilli, MD October 15, 2016

Thomas J. Michalewski '13, MBA '16 and Kathryn Kozlowski August 6, 2016

*Adrienne M. Beggs '08, MS '09 and Michael Giordano September 3, 2016

*Anna J. Pawlaczyk '09 and Grant W. Whieldon '09 September 17, 2016

*Joshua P. Coleman '10 and Jenna Rodriguez August 5, 2016

Monica E. Peete '96 and Torris Granderson July 2, 2016

Angela M. DeDionisio '11 and Justin A. Shelton '10, DO September 10, 2016

*Jason J. Petko '01 and Sara Malikowski June 17, 2016

Jennifer L. Eberhart '08 and Joshua Powell, PhD October 9, 2016

*Erin E. Pope '14 and Jeffrey Ceier September 3, 2016

*Charlotte R. Gorski '11 and Michael A. Bielecki '10, MBAACC '11 July 2, 2016

*Michael J. Ryan '64 and Jean Fletcher July 13, 2016

*Abigail E. Huebsch MSED '14 and Richard A. Tate July 8, 2016

*Laura E. Shelberg '11, MSED '15 and Bryan Baritot August 6, 2016

*Kelly K. Jablonski '10 and Michael R. Benzinger '10 July 9, 2016

*Ann M. Wojtaszczyk '08, MD and Alexander C. Drelick June 18, 2016

*Indicates married at Christ the King Chapel

Due to space constraints we may not be able to publish all photos submitted. WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

IN MEMORIAM Edwin Patricola ’43 September 5, 2016

William G. Muehlbauer ’53 August 18, 2016

Jay G. Roberts II MSED ’68 September 26, 2016

Melinda R. Burgwardt Gibson ’81 October 7, 2016

Anthony C. Rocco ’48 August 3, 2016

Thomas J. Shanahan ’54 October 12, 2016

Thomas W. Balcerek ’69, PhD March 30, 2016

Donald Davis ’81 September 12, 2016

Grace Druar MS ’49 July 4, 2016

Paul R. Lancaster ’56 July 10, 2016

Edward P. Carroll Jr. ’69 July 21, 2016

Richard J. Fitzgerald ’84 September 25, 2016

Woodrow J. Huff ’49 September 14, 2016

Laverne F. Fassl ’57, MA ’67 December 20, 2016

Arthur Cholewinski MSED ’69 June 25, 2016

Alfred C. Woch ’84 July 6, 2016

H. Merton Smith II ’49, DPM September 20, 2016

Charles W. Stonish ’57 August 4, 2016

David H. Lembicz ’70 August 30, 2016

Justin A. Krull ’85 July 12, 2016

Donald J. Barnett ’50 November 27, 2016

Robert M. Barone ’57, MD October 6, 2016

Gary M. Schaefer ’70 October 28, 2016

Edward J. McMahon ’50, MS ’67 October 10, 2016

James J. Hurley ’58 August 25, 2016

Donna M. Manzo MSED ’73 July 18, 2016

Cynthia J. Saad-Johnson ’85, MSED ’98 September 27, 2016

Leonard J. Garr ’51 June 24, 2016

Paul D. Randall ’58 July 29, 2016

Vito Gennaro ’51 July 10, 2016

Thaddeus E. Tomczak ’59 August 10, 2016

Jean A. (Blaszyk) MonsonMurphy MSED ’74 October 4, 2016

Henry J. Kossowski ’51 September 25, 2016

Samuel R. Curto ’60 February 11, 2016

Ray W. Manuszewski ’51 June 26, 2016

Paul T. Kwitowski ’61, PhD November 11, 2016

Salvatore A. Piccillo ’51 July 12, 2016

Francis A. Ott ’61 June 25, 2016

Daniel E. Stedem ’51 July 17, 2016

Cecilia C. (Spano) Breen MSED ’63 August 9, 2016

John E. Breslin ’52 September 3, 2016

Leon T. Kaminski ’63 September 14, 2016

Joseph D. Pici ’52 July 26, 2016

James J. Kirisits ’63 September 19, 2016

Joseph H. Walz Jr. ’52 September 16, 2016

Lucy C. (Teresi) Curley MA ’64 August 2, 2016

George Yavicoli Sr. ’52 September 9, 2016

David P. Walker ’64 September 16, 2016

Frederick J. Bough ’53 October 2, 2016

Marcella C. Fugle MSED ’66 September 10, 2016

Herbert V. Fink ’53 August 8, 2016

Kenneth M. Murphy ’67 July 25, 2016

Mark C. Ivey ’92 September 11, 2016 Jeffrey T. Stievater ’92 August 14, 2016

Edward J. Kane MS ’75, MSED ’81 August 14, 2016

Kenneth R. Schneider MBA ’94 September 12, 2016

Patrick D. Robinson MSED ’75 September 20, 2016

James J. Mezhir ’95, MD February 3, 2016

Donald R. Zak ’75 August 25, 2016

Brian G. Ragan ’97, PhD July 21, 2016

Frank J. Cartonia ’76 September 27, 2016

Richard Birkenhead ’02 September 13, 2016

James Y. Leong MBA ’77 February 6, 2016

Sean P. Kelley ’03 September 4, 2016

Lynne (Kozlowski) Furlong ’78, MD July 9, 2016

Steven A. Leonard Jr. ’07 November 13, 2016

E. David Rebmann Jr. MS ’78 July 5, 2016

Nicole Butzke ’13 November 2, 2016

Sandra (Cipriani) Hope MS ’79 October 17, 2016 Shirley F. (Kreish) Christy MS ’79 October 26, 2016 William A. Battle ’81 September 25, 2016

The fall 2016 issue of Canisius College Magazine mistakenly included Mark S. Rojek ’72 in the “In Memoriam” column. The editors extend their sincerest apologies for this egregious error.

Canisius College lost a dear friend and devoted alumnus on February 5, when John B. “JB” Walsh ’50 passed away. He was 89. Well-respected and widely known among Western New York’s legal and lobbyist communities, Walsh was instrumental in securing $1 billion in state aid for new construction and refurbishing of the Buffalo Public Schools. He also procured grants to improve the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park, and played a key role in the renaissance of the Ellicott Square Building. At Canisius, Walsh chaired the committee for the Greatest Generation reunion. He similarly led a successful fundraising campaign for a Greatest Generation Memorial and an endowed scholarship that bears the same name. For his distinguished service to community and alma mater, Canisius College conferred upon Walsh, the LaSalle Medal.

babygriffs

Kristen M. Covino ’04, PhD and Amber Bratcher-Covino, PhD, twins, Avaleen Lucille and Thaxter Lawrence, born August 6, 2016 Kyle Michael Hejmowski ’03 and Artemisia Apostolopoulou, a daughter, Augusta Maria, born June 20, 2016 Margaret E. (Beltrami) Moberg ’04 and Amos Moberg, MD, a daughter, Alexandra Claire, born September 14, 2016 Christopher S. Ruminski ’98, MBA ’00 and Katherine Ruminski, a daughter, Lucy Grace, born August 10, 2016 Amy M. (Valenti) Sorrentino ’04 and Anthony Sorrentino, a son, Carson Anthony, born April 17, 2016 Audrey M. (Dolan) Winkowski ’00 and Anthony J. Winkowski ’00, MD, a daughter, Molly Margaret, born September 12, 2015

F E AT U R E D

B A B Y

G R I F F

Annabella Grace born April 5, 2016 to Jennifer L. (Kuzmin) Cummings '92 and Patrick C. Cummings '91

The Institute for the Global Study of Religion Invites Canisius College alumni to explore

Religion & Nature on the Slopes of Kilimanjaro

July 5-17, 2017 Visit canisius.edu/IGSOR and follow the link to the Road Less Traveled Pilgrimage Seminar for more information. If interested, contact Timothy Wadkins, PhD at wadkins@canisius.edu or 716.888.2824. WINTER 2017 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

alumnispotlight

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE WINTER 2017

alumnispotlight

On Call Kathleen A. Grisanti Lillis ’82, MD, pioneers the region’s first pediatric urgent care center Story: Audrey R. Browka / Photography: Tom Wolf '86

Kathleen A. Grisanti Lillis ’82, MD, made a critical decision about her future in 2010 – one that even surprised her. After 18-plus years working in the Emergency Department at Buffalo’s Women & Children’s Hospital, Lillis resigned from her “tremendously rewarding but also challenging” roles to open Pediatric & Adolescent Urgent Care of WNY. It is the region’s first free-standing emergency room alternative for children (infants through age 21). Staffed by pediatricians and pediatric emergency specialists, the center treats young patients who need wounds stitched, broken bones X-rayed and antibiotics administered. “We provide the best possible care for children’s acute illnesses and injuries in a setting that’s welcoming and comfortable, not intimidating or sterile looking,” she explains. Lillis’ decision to leave Women & Children’s didn’t come easily. She proudly served as director of the emergency room (ER) and chief of the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Division. But after tending to the critical care of pediatric patients at a time when the hospital’s ER was considered the busiest in Buffalo, Lillis grew frustrated.

“I wasn’t able to spend the time with patients that I felt I needed in order to give them the best care,” she recalls. Urgent care centers have emerged as a popular and economical alternative to overcrowded emergency rooms. More scarce, however, are specialized centers for children who need immediate medical attention but whose conditions don’t rise to the level of emergency. Pediatric & Adolescent Urgent Care fills that sorely needed service, with locations in Western New York’s Northtowns and Southtowns. But opening the center came with growing pains. Lillis’ former colleagues saw her as a competitor. “It took a lot to convince the pediatric community that we exist not to compete with but to supplement its care.” Walk-in hours are limited to evenings, weekends and holidays, “when most pediatric offices are closed.” The center does not conduct routine exams or school physicals, nor do the doctors administer routine immunizations. The center is, however, equipped to deliver treatments not often available in pediatricians’ offices, including basic surgical procedures, IVs, blood draws and conscious sedations. Lillis’ newly-opened Pediatric and Adolescent Infusion Center is an outgrowth that provides infusions to young patients battling certain types of chronic diseases. “Our business model continually evolves to reflect the needs of the pediatric healthcare community,” she says. What doesn’t change, however, is Lillis’ commitment to deliver the best possible care to her young patients along with a healthy dose of compassion. “Now I am able to spend more time with my patients. I can educate them, laugh and joke with them, and comfort them in what is oftentimes an uncomfortable situation,” Lillis says. “This is the type of medicine I was called to do.” Kathleen A. Grisanti Lillis ’82, MD, has been a committed member of the Canisius Medical Advisory Board since 2004 and a mentor to the college’s pre-med students, many of whom volunteer at her centers.

The interior of Pediatric & Adolescent Urgent Care is designed with children in mind. Jungle and beach-themed exam rooms feature sleigh beds dressed with comfortable sheets and blankets, and young patients wear cotton pajama bottoms and tee shirts.

Canisius College Magazine 2001 Main Street | Buffalo, NY 14208 | canisius.edu

Double the donors. Double the impact.

Save the date to participate in the collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual one-day giving campaign. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to wait until April 26? Any gift counts toward #CanisiusGivingDay. canisiusgivingday.com I Together WE CAN I #CanisiusGivingDay