Buffalo Prep Celebration 2023

Honoring the senior scholars in Buffalo Prep’s class of 2023.

Thursday, May 4, 2023

cwbono032128 Buffalo Prep Celebration Program Cover 2023 Finished: 6.5” x 10” | .125” bleed

Schedule of Events Welcome

Taylor Epps, WKBW Channel 7 Benjamin Cordero, HSP Class of 2018

Opening Performances

Nicole Ndayishimiye, HSP Class of 2019 Adrienne Steele, HSP Class of 2019, Oishei Scholar

May 14 Reflection and Tribute

Reverend Craig Pridgen True Bethel Baptist Church, Niagara Falls Carlos Calderon, Jr., River Jordan Carr, Diego Guzmán, Nicole Ndayishimiye, Adrienne Steele 2023 Celebration Student Co-Gen Committee

Sponsor and Partner School Recognition

Taylor Epps | Benjamin Cordero

The David Kash Student Champion of the Year Award

Marcus Deveso, Chief Program Officer

Remarks and Honoree Recognition

Patti Stephen, President David Johnson, Senior Director of College Prep

University at Buffalo Acceptance and Remarks

Dr. Suzanne Rosenblith, Dean and Professor, Graduate School of Education

Todd and Dina Benderson and the Benderson Family Acceptance and Remarks

Dina Benderson

Student Performance

Diego Guzmán, HSP Class of 2019

Dinner & Scholarship Recognition Remarks

Jimmy Chebat & Jennifer Daily Gress Celebration Co-Chairs

Performance

Jillian Hanesworth, Poet Laureate

Parent Speaker and Distinguished Alumni Award

Mr. and Mrs. Francisco and Elizabeth Guzmán Buffalo Prep Parents

Senior Recognition Prep Rally

Taylor Epps | Benjamin Cordero

Scholar Dance Party - All are welcome!

Welcome to Celebration!

This evening, we are proud to celebrate the scholars of Buffalo Prep and their dedication, motivation, and aspirations for the future.

Since its founding in 1989, Buffalo Prep has been helping to close the access and opportunity gaps for thousands of systematically marginalized Western New York students. Buffalo Prep is not a school but a dedicated organization that provides academic and enrichment programs that guide, nurture, and prepare our scholars as they make the most of their education. Many students begin Buffalo Prep’s program in 5th grade, at just 10 or 11 years old, and commit evenings, weekends, and their summers to prepare for high achievement in our pipeline of programs.

Our partner high schools share our commitment. We commend them on their diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. They strive to create an educational environment where all students can gain a sense of belonging and thrive academically and socially.

We also extend our appreciation to the University at Buffalo for its unwavering support of Buffalo Prep. UB’s dedication to educational programs, beginning as early as pre-kindergarten, touches countless lives within our community every day.

As we expand further and deeper with our programming, we look to our corporate, foundation, and individual donors - like you - to continue their advocacy and help spread the word about the work Buffalo Prep is doing to develop the next generation of leaders in our community.

Your endorsement of Buffalo Prep allows our scholars to focus on their education and career goals, develop their talents and passions, and hone their skills to succeed. In the immediate future, your donation might fund a scholar’s education at Buffalo Prep, buy textbooks for a classroom, or sponsor a field trip; in the long term, your generosity will help create the foundation from which future innovators, community advocates, and agents of change will grow.

On behalf of Buffalo Prep’s Celebration Co-Chairs Mr. Jimmy Chebat and Ms. Jennifer Daily Gress, committee members, staff, board members, scholars, their families, and alumni, we would like to sincerely thank you for helping us ensure the sustainability and growth of this remarkable program.

Enjoy the evening!

We would like to thank THE JOHN R. OISHEI FOUNDATION for your belief in and continued support of our education.

Derrick Richardson

Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School

Noel White

Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart

Adrienne Steele Buffalo Seminary

Deng Yak

Canisius High School

Gianna Williams

Cardinal O'Hara High School

Fiona Tournour

Mount Mercy Academy

Gloria Htoo

Nardin Academy

Eliana Tadeo

Nichols School

Chase Welsh

The Park School of Buffalo

Carlos Calderon Jr.

St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute

Luis Bermudez

St. Mary's High School

Jamell Dallas

St. Mary’s High School

Aquila Ali

Mount St. Mary Academy

THANK YOU!

A TRIBUTE TO Delta Sonic / The Benderson Family With great pleasure, Buffalo Prep honors Mr. and Mrs. Todd and Dina Benderson & The Benderson Family for their impactful and steadfast generosity.

Benderson Development, founded in Buffalo more than eight decades ago, is a multigenerational family business that has contributed to the evolution and strengthening of the Western New York region. It has grown to become one of the country’s largest privately owned real estate development companies, with its portfolio including more than 50 million square feet in 40 states. The Benderson family has a legacy in Buffalo of being visionaries and philanthropists, taking great pride in the communities it serves.

Todd and Dina are deeply engaged advocates for educational equity. Dina has been serving on the Buffalo Prep Board of Directors since 2015; she currently sits on the Finance Committee and is Co-Chair of the Mission Advancement Committee. Dina was introduced to Buffalo Prep through the Celebration committee in 2013. Todd and Dina have chaired Celebration multiple times and pivoted to ensure the same level of support throughout the pandemic. Between the board and Celebration, Todd and Dina have been instrumental in navigating Buffalo Prep through the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent evolution of Buffalo Prep’s mission. The Benderson Family has invested in Buffalo Prep’s growth through the Prep for Tomorrow capital campaign and has supported continued education and professional development for Buffalo Prep’s staff.

As Buffalo Prep celebrates a future where all scholars have the opportunity to pursue excellence and success in a community that nurtures their individual talents, goals, and authentic selves, Mr. and Mrs. Todd and Dina Benderson & The Benderson Family are a most deserving honoree.

A TRIBUTE TO University at Buffalo Buffalo Prep is exceptionally pleased to honor the University at Buffalo for being a key partner in the establishment of Buffalo Prep and its continued growth and expansion.

Buffalo Prep is located on the historic South Campus of the University, which provides students with the experience of attending classes in a collegiate environment. Students are invited to participate in various campus activities such as athletic and cultural events, utilize classrooms and labs on campus, attend lectures, admissions and financial aid workshops, and networking and career days.

To further their commitment to our long-term partnership with Buffalo Prep, the University at Buffalo made it possible for Buffalo Prep to relocate to Allen Hall on its South Campus. UB provided many of the costs associated with the Allen Hall building repair and redesign for Prep and other University purposes, while Buffalo Prep pledged to raise its portion of the funds needed to complete construction and to outfit and furnish the classrooms and offices. Buffalo Prep officially moved into its new home in the Winter of 2020, and students were welcomed to Allen Hall with the start of in-person College Prep tutorial in March 2021. Allen Hall is now fully operational and is the home site for Prep Brep Bridge, High School Prep, College Prep, and Buffalo Prep’s administration.

Buffalo Prep would also like to recognize UB’s Graduate School of Education’s Teacher Residency Program, which impacts the classroom and the lives of historically marginalized students. The program works towards equity in educational experiences by preparing and supporting diverse teachers. The program aims to diversify the local teaching community and prepare, support, and retain learner-ready teachers who foster positive academic and social-emotional change in classrooms, schools, and communities.

As Buffalo Prep celebrates the academic successes of our scholars - many of whom have committed their evenings, weekends, and summers since 5th grade to prepare for high achievement - the University at Buffalo is a prime honoree.

SUPPORT OUR SCHOLARS

Text in a donation at any time to support Buffalo Prep’s outstanding scholars!

Thank you to Alkegen for matching donations raised during our event!

This generous support from Alkegen, along with your contributions, will help us to provide the resources necessary to support our students in achieving academic excellence.

1. Text 41444 2. Enter celebrate (space) your donation amount (space) your name (Example: celebrate 1000 John Smith) 3. A text message will be sent back to you linking directly to a secure donation form to complete your pledge!

Thank you for your support of our extraordinary Prep scholars!

A Thank You From the Seniors As we conclude our time in high school, we want to thank everyone who has helped us get to this point.

We have definitely had a very unconventional high school experience. Only a few months after we started high school, the COVID-19 pandemic began. We were thrust into a world of social distancing, asynchronous learning, and speeches that included the words “during this unprecedented time.” The majority of our sophomore year was spent online, and our junior year was mostly spent wearing masks. Our senior year has been our first “normal” high school year and ironically, our last high school year.

Buffalo Prep, however, was with us through it all, helping us in all aspects as we navigated through high school. They were there to support us academically through tutoring, SAT prep, and even checking up on us at our schools. We have had college visits, career presentations, and help with the admissions process to prepare us for our next steps in life. Buffalo Prep also was there to support us mentally through one-on-one conversations with staff, hanging out at the Prep building, or Prep parties and events.

With that, we thank all of the Buffalo Prep staff. Whether you taught us in Middle School and High School Prep, helped us understand homework in College Prep, or worked behind the scenes to plan Prep events, we thank you for your efforts to support us.

To our donors, we thank you for putting your faith in us. Your donations have given us access to the best schools in Western New York and helped us reach heights we didn’t think were possible.

And to our parents and guardians, we thank you for the many sacrifices you’ve made throughout our lives and our high school careers. We appreciate all the rides to our extracurriculars, the help we’ve received with homework, and you pushing us not only to do our work but to excel. We recognize and thank you for your patience, support, and devotion to helping us succeed. We would not be the people we are today without you.

Buffalo Prep has given us the opportunity to dream big and the support to follow our dreams. As we venture into life after high school and become Buffalo Prep alumni, we will forever cherish our time here at Buffalo Prep. And for this opportunity, we thank you all.

With Gratitude, The College Prep Class of 2023

CELEBRATION SPONSORS Presenting Sponsor

Reaching Potential Sponsors

Arc Building Partners Buffalo Sabres Foundation Match Sponsor Mr. John Chebat Alkegen Education Collaborative of WNY Ernst & Young Illuminating Brilliance Sponsor Mr. and Mrs. Alex and Jennifer Gress Delta Sonic Ms. Kathie Keller KeyBank Celebrating Achievement Sponsor Mr. and Mrs. Jock and Betsy Mitchell Life Storage Pegula Sports & Entertainment Pricewaterhouse Coopers Creating Opportunity Sponsors Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Deloitte University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY West Herr Auto Group Keller Technology Corporation ZIZO Technologies Mr. and Mrs. Norman and Thuy Murray M&T Bank

Realizing Dreams Sponsors Crowley Webb D’Youville University Delaware North Hodgson Russ Dr. and Mr. Shelley and David Kimelberg Moog National Fuel Rodriguez Construction Group SelectOne

Inspiring Young Minds Sponsors Buffalo Seminary Mount Mercy Academy Mount St. Mary Academy Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart Nardin Academy Nichols School St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute

Scholar Ticket Sponsors BXI Consultants • Canisius College • Connect 1 Globalquest Solutions • Mr. and Mrs. David and Melissa Jorgenson Mader Construction Company, Inc. • Nixon Peabody LLP

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNER SCHOOLS Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart Buffalo Seminary Canisius High School Cardinal O’Hara High School City Honors School Frederick Law Olmsted School Hutchinson Central Technical High School Leonardo da Vinci High School Mount Mercy Academy Mount Saint Mary Academy Nardin Academy Nichols School The Park School of Buffalo St. Francis High School St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute St. Mary’s High School Tapestry Charter School

BUFFALO PREP IS A

AFFILIATED PROGRAM

Scholarships Buffalo Prep proudly collaborates with organizations to ensure the needs of all students are met as fully as possible. We are grateful for our partnerships with the following companies, colleges, and universities that have created scholarship opportunities exclusively for Buffalo Prep scholars.

The AAF Buffalo Future Marketer Scholarship The American Advertising Federation Buffalo Board of Directors is proud to present the Future Marketer Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating Buffalo Prep student who is planning to study communications, advertising, or marketing in college. AAF Buffalo is committed to working with Buffalo Prep to help grow the next generation of talent in the advertising and marketing industry. Congratulations to all the students for their achievements.

Alkegen Scholarship As part of Alkegen’s commitment to recruiting high-quality candidates from across Western New York, and in keeping with the effort to increase the number of diverse candidates considering careers in materials science, business, or engineering, Alkegen is supporting a Buffalo Prep student with a $10,000 per year scholarship for a total of four years.

SelectOne Unsung Hero Scholarship SelectOne is committed to racial, economic, and social equity as a business servicing and working in the WNY community. Their company believes that education is one of the most powerful forces to shape lasting change, progress, and, ultimately, equity. Therefore, SelectOne is proud to offer one 4-year scholarship award of $6,250 per year and two 4-year scholarship awards of $2,000 per year each to three college-bound seniors graduating from Buffalo Prep, commencing in 2023. With the oversight of Buffalo Prep’s leadership, the scholarship winners may use the funds for college tuition, room, board, books, and related college expenses.

Scholarships

The Hodgson Russ LLP Diversity Scholarship

In connection with Hodgson Russ LLP’s commitment to diversity in our community and in the legal profession, the Hodgson Russ Diversity Scholarship is awarded annually to one Buffalo Prep college-bound senior with an interest in a law-related career. Hodgson Russ congratulates all of the scholarship applicants for their excellent records of personal and academic achievement.

National Fuel Gas Company Foundation Scholarship As part of National Fuel Gas Company Foundation’s commitment to recruiting high-quality candidates from across Western New York interested in working within the energy sector, and in keeping with the effort to increase the number of diverse candidates considering careers in IT (programming, cyber security, software engineer, etc.), business administration, or engineering, National Fuel is pleased to award one $15,000 scholarship per year for a total of four years to a college-bound senior graduating from Buffalo Prep. National Fuel congratulates all of the scholars for their dedication and excellence.

Niagara University Brennan Scholarship

For more than 150 years, Niagara University has been educating students in the Catholic and Vincentian traditions. This tradition emphasizes ethics, lifelong learning, and service to others and prepares graduates for lives and careers that are both successful and fulfilling. In order to provide a transformational experience for high-achieving students, Niagara University is awarding the Brennan scholarship to three Buffalo Prep scholars each year. This opportunity creates student access to an outstanding education at the University through comprehensive financial support, including full tuition, books, and room and board at Niagara University for up to four years.

Scholarships 1Step Buffalo Scholarship

1Step Buffalo is an organization started by Buffalo Prep alumnus Anthony Lirano ‘13 to give back to the community and introduce students to the advertising industry. Their mission is to help the community one step at a time by providing resources and opportunities. The 1Step Advertiser Scholarship is a $1,000 scholarship offered to one current high school Buffalo Prep senior.

Villa Maria College Scholarship

In recognition of Buffalo Prep’s academically rigorous college preparatory curriculum, Villa Maria will provide institutional academic merit scholarships to all qualified scholars. Any graduate of Buffalo Prep will receive full tuition for four years, including books and supplies. Additionally, Prep scholars who graduate with a minimum GPA of 95 will receive full tuition for four years, including books and supplies, automatic admission to the Villa Maria College Honors Program, and have access to priority selection of a college in the College Mentoring Program. There is no limit as to the number of scholarships that may be awarded in any given year.

William Paul Scholarship

A University at Buffalo grad, William Paul was just beginning a promising career in video production when his life was cut tragically short in a fatal car accident. He had worked as an office production assistant for CGI Communications and as a set production assistant for Guillermo del Toro’s Nightmare Alley, filmed in Buffalo. He then was named Crowley Webb’s production assistant and contributed to a number of successful video shoots during his time with them. Beyond this, William was a civil rights activist, a loving son and brother, and a true friend. He was an example of what it means to be a complete person. Crowley Webb will award a scholarship to one college-bound Buffalo Prep senior who intends to study and displays an aptitude in any or all of the following areas: marketing, communications, design, film and video production and editing, media studies, creative writing and public relations.

PAST CELEBRATION HONOREES 1998 - 2022

2022 - The Peter C. Cornell Trust & Moog, Inc. 2021 - Alkegen and Education Collaborative of Western New York 2020 - The Class of 2020 2019 - The Children's Foundation of Erie County & M&T Bank 2018 - Kathie A. Keller and Keller Technology Corporation & Crowley Webb 2017 - Karen Baker and Todd Levin & The John R. Oishei Foundation 2016 - Bobbie Billings Neal, The Watson Billings Family Foundation & The Patrick P. Lee Foundation 2015 - Gary and Willow Brost & Louis P. Ciminelli Family Foundation 2014 - Buford and Suzy Sears & Joy Family Foundation 2013 - Jock and Betsy Mitchell & Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo 2012 - Margaret L. Wendt Foundation and Susan G. Roney 2011- First Niagara Bank 2010 - Anne and William Joyce 2009 - BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York 2008 - HSBC Bank 2007 - M&T Bank 2006 - The John R. Oishei Foundation 2005 - University at Buffalo 2004 - Sandy Honney and Ruben Brown 2003 - Joseph Crowley & Crowley Webb and Associates 2002 - Gerard E. “Red” Murray & Family 2000 - Muriel A. Howard, Ph.D 1998 - Robert G. Wilmers

Grades 5

Grades 5 and 6

Grade 7

PIPELINE OF Prep Scholars Academy

Middle School Prep

A neighborhood-based culturally relevant academic program designed to help scholars excel throughout middle school and prepare them for high school.

An accelerated enrichment program offered the summers after 5th and 6th grades that prepares scholars for success in college preparatory high schools.

Prep Bridge A program for eligible Prep Scholars Academy and Middle School Prep students who have completed post 6th grade summer programming and would like to continue in a challenging program throughout their 7th grade year.

Grades 9 - 12

Grade 8

Beyond Prep

PROGRAMS High School Prep

College Prep

Alumni Prep

An intensive, 14-month program that prepares students for acceptance to and success at top independent, Catholic, charter and criteria-based public schools and higher education.

A comprehensive program designed to assist eligible 9th-12th grade scholars to thrive academically and socially-emotionally as they navigate high school and prepare for their post-secondary journey.

Support, networking, and connection during post-secondary education and beyond.

CELEBRATION COMMITTEE Event Committee Chairs JIMMY CHEBAT JENNIFER DAILY GRESS

Event Committee Members COURTNEY CALDWELL ADINA DELMAR GAIL ETTARO COURTNEY HUNTER PAIGE LAMPARELLI CHELSEA LATTA LAUREN LEWIS

ASHLEY MIDDLETON JUSTIN MOFFATT JESSICA RODRIGUEZ TANYA SABER JASMINE STRATFORD MEGAN WHITMORE

Student Committee Members

CARLOS CALDERON, JR. • RIVER JORDAN CARR • DIEGO GUZMÁN • NICOLE NDAYISHIMIYE • ADRIENNE STEELE

Deluxe In-Kind Donors

Crowley Webb • The Flower Stand • Park Edge Sweet Shoppe Premier Wine and Spirits • Webb Mason

A TRIBUTE TO THE CLASS OF 2023 Dear Class of 2023, Congratulations on achieving another milestone in your life’s journey!

Your high school career, in all of its uniqueness, has helped mold you into the resilient young adult you are today. As you continue on your path toward greatness, remember the three mantras learned at Buffalo Prep: YOU HAVE SUPERPOWERS: You have incredible resilience and resourcefulness. We are rarely given access to opportunities via the front door. So, we have to come at them from the side, above or below. You can also count on us here at Buffalo Prep to open doors with you.

YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD: The countless sacrifices you’ve made have not gone unnoticed. You have paved the way for generations to come. Continue to show up unapologetically as your authentic self. We need you as we continue the work of making our community more just and equitable for all.

MEDIOCRITY IS UNACCEPTABLE: You may already know what you want to do with your life which is a huge gift at any age. Don’t be afraid to dive in and see where you land. We are extremely proud of your success both in and outside of the classroom. Your paths will vary, but you will forever have the bonds established with classmates, teachers, administrators, mentors, coaches, and the Buffalo Prep family.

You have built the foundation to take the world by storm. Whether you choose community college, trade school, university, entrepreneurship, gap year, or workforce, we are here with and for you.

We see your hard work. We value your perspectives. We hear your voice. We appreciate all of it and hope you remain connected through the Alumni Prep network.

Congratulations and best wishes to a group of scholars who have experienced and accomplished so much.

Ms. Stephanie

Mr. David

Congratulations to the 2023 Graduates!

Each student in the following pages has participated in Buffalo Prep’s College Prep programming. There are three entryways to College Prep: •Scholars who have successfully completed the High School Prep program are automatically enrolled (listed as High School Prep graduate) •Scholars who participate in one of Buffalo Prep’s partner scholarship programs are automatically enrolled (listed as Oishei or Cullen scholar) •Scholars who attend a partner school, are seeking additional academic or social-emotional support, and meet Buffalo Prep’s eligibility guidelines (listed as College Prep scholar) Seniors not pictured on th following pages: Anika Khanam and Elijah Mostiller

Md Sabid Alam Nichols School College Prep Scholar/Buffalo Promise Neighborhood Scholar

Andrea Alavé Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate

Aquila Ali Mount St. Mary Academy High School Prep Graduate / Oishei Scholar

Eshal Ali Nardin Academy College Prep Scholar

Unique Allen Mount St. Mary Academy High School Prep Graduate

Isabella Aradio Nardin Academy High School Prep Graduate

Anger Ayiy Nardin Academy Cullen Scholar

Shamaya Banks Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate

Cyan Barbour City Honors School High School Prep Graduate

Luis Bermudez St. Mary’s High School Oishei Scholar

Eyerusalem Bisrat Nardin Academy High School Prep Graduate

Masani Brace Williamsville South High School Prep Graduate

Isaiah Brooks St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute College Prep Scholar

Daniel Bwenge Canisius High School College Prep Scholar

Carlos Calderon Jr. St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute Oishei Scholar

River Jordan Carr Mount St. Mary Academy High School Prep Graduate

Lakari Carr Nichols School College Prep Scholar/Buffalo Promise Neighborhood Scholar

Dakota Clay Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate

Chris Cooper Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate

James Corker St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute College Prep Scholar/Buffalo Promise Neighborhood Scolar

Jamell Dallas St. Mary’s High School High School Prep Graduate/Oishei Scholar

Maria De Los Angeles Nardin Academy Cullen Scholar

Deng Doar Canisius High School High School Prep Graduate

Domonique Dowell Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart High School Prep Graduate

Ahnaf Fatin Canisius High School High School Prep Graduate

Vaughn Gordon The Park School of Buffalo College Prep Scholar

Diego Guzmán Nichols School High School Prep Graduate

Beteal Hadush Frederick Law Olmsted High School College Prep Scholar

Mercury Helen Sweet Home High School High School Prep Graduate

Gloria Htoo Nardin Academy High School Prep Graduate/Oishei Scholar

Olga Ineza City Honors School High School Prep Graduate

Jaylin Johnson St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute High School Prep Graduate

Kayla Johnson The Park School of Buffalo College Prep Scholar/Buffalo Promise Neighborhood Scholar

Tegsti Kulutum Nardin Academy College Prep Scholar

Maria Meh Frederick Law Olmsted High School College Prep Scholar

Hashim Mganga St. Francis High School College Prep Scholar

Natalia Miller Middle Early College High School High School Prep Graduate

Nicole Ndayishimiye City Honors School High School Prep Graduate

Malik Oakes City Honors School High School Prep Graduate

Jenna Paler St. Mary’s High School Cullen Scholar

Brendon Parker St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute High School Prep Graduate

Nevaeh Rainey Cardinal O’Hara High School High School Prep Scholar

Seh Reh Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Derrick Richardson Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School Oishei Scholar

David Ridgeway Jr. Hutchinson Central Technical High School College Prep Scholar

Samara Riggins Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Summer Riggins Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Khayri Salter Amherst Central High School College Prep Scholar

Mohammed Sayem Nichols School College Prep Scholar/Buffalo Promise Neighborhood Scholar

Shafay Shahzad Canisius High School High School Prep Graduate

Eh Htoo Sher Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Adrienne Steele Buffalo Seminary Oishei Scholar

Eliana Tadeo Nichols School Oishei Scholar

Arsema Tedros Cardinal O’Hara High School High School Prep Graduate

Aniah Thomas Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Fiona Tournour Mount Mercy Academy Oishei Scholar

Chase Welch The Park School of Buffalo Oishei Scholar

Noel White Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart Oishei Scholar

Gianna Williams Cardinal O’Hara High School Oishei Scholar

Malik Williams St. Francis High School High School Prep Graduate

Deng Yak Canisius High School Oishei Scholar

The Class of 2023 have been accepted into the following schools: Alfred College Alfred State University American University Arizona State University Barnard College Bentley University Brown University Canisius College Clarkson University Cleveland State University Coastal Carolina University Columbia University Daemen University DePaul University Duke University Duquesne University D’Youville University Fordham University Georgia State University Grand Valley State University Hampton University Hilbert College Hofstra University Howard University Kent State University Keuka College LeMoyne College Lincoln University Louisiana State University Loyola University Medaille College Mercy College Mercyhurst University Michigan State University

Morgan State University Murray State University Nazareth College New York University Niagara County Community College Niagara University Norte Dame North Carolina A&T University Northland Workforce Training Center Nova Southeastern University Ohio State University Penn State University Pittsburgh at Bradford Princeton University Reno University Robert Morris University Rochester Institute of Technology Seton Hall University Siena College Spelman College St. John’s University St. Bonaventure University St. Francis College St. John Fisher University SUNY Albany SUNY Binghamton SUNY Brockport SUNY Buffalo State SUNY Erie

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry SUNY Fredonia SUNY Geneseo SUNY Stony Brook Syracuse University Temple University Tennessee State University The New School Eugene Lang University of Akron University of Alabama University of Albany University of Arizona University at Buffalo University of California at Davis University of Chicago University of Las Vegas University of Mississippi University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of North Carolina at Greensboro University of Pittsburgh University of South Carolina University of Tampa University of Toledo Villa Maria College Xavier University Xavier University of Louisiana

Potential like yours can take you anywhere.

Congratulations to the Buffalo Prep Class of 2023.

Congratulations to this year’s graduating class!

The University at Buffalo is proud of our longstanding partnership with Buffalo Prep and honored to support its students and their dreams. We deeply appreciate the impactful work of our Buffalo Prep colleagues to uphold your mission of academic excellence, and we look forward to seeing future generations of Buffalo Prep students thrive in their academic endeavors.

Everything you need.

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4811 Transit Road, Williamsville, NY 14221 (716) 565-1330 UnitedRentals.com | 800.UR.RENTS © 2019 United Rentals, Inc.

CHS CELEBRATES OUR SENIORS CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL BUFFALO PREP GRADUATES!

Daniel bwenge

Deng Doar

Ahnaf Fatin

Shafay Shahzad

Deng Yak

members of the CANISIUS HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2023

MAKING AN IMPACT Nixon Peabody is proud to support Buffalo Prep‘s graduating high school scholars!

Nixon Peabody LLP | 40 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14202 | nixonpeabody.com

Building a brighter future We’re proud to support Buffalo Prep in celebrating this year’s class of graduating high school students and loyal community members.

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

EMPOWERING A NEW GENERATION OF LEADERS As active members of our community, we are thrilled to support Buffalo Prep in their efforts to inspire young minds and break the poverty cycle through education.

CONGRATULATIONS Buffalo Prep Class of 2023!

Photo courtesy of U.S. Air Force

Photo courtesy of NASA/JPL-Caltech

THE SKY IS NOT THE LIMIT.

IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING. Moog is proud to join in the celebration of your hard work and accomplishments. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors! www.moog.com

moog

Deloitte is proud to sponsor Buffalo Prep’s annual Celebration of Achievement Congratulations class of 2023!

We value Buffalo Prep’s commitment to help talented underrepresented students achieve success.

Deloitte is honored to prepare future leaders by using our community to help build bridges between education, skills training, and employment through some of our key initiatives.

Making Accounting Diverse and Equitable (MADE) | RightStep | Girls Who Code | Impact Day | Deloitte Foundation www.deloitte.com Local contact: Jim Brennan Upstate NY Managing Partner +1 585 238 3300 Copyright © 2023 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved.

STAFFING

TALENT ACQUISITION

At StaffBuffalo we provide efficient and effective candidate search and recruitment services. Our experienced team takes the time to understand your company’s culture, expectations, and job requirements to ensure that you get the right person for the job.

Our Talent Acquisition Team offers additional support for your hiring needs! We work with your internal staff to create, implement, and maintain a strategic Talent Acquisition Plan.

We will position your company to be in the running for high-level talent in this increasingly competitive market!

HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES HRBuffalo provides organizations with innovative, fullspectrum HR solutions to retain top employees and drive business results. We approach each client with fresh eyes to develop customized strategies and solutions.

(716) 262-9153 168 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo, NY www.StaffBuffalo.com

SCHEDULE A MEETING ON OUR WEBSITE AND LEARN HOW WE CAN HELP!

OUR WISH is to free our world from the fear, pain and loss due to cancer — one act of compassion, one breakthrough discovery, one life-changing therapy at a time — until cancer is gone.

RoswellPark.org

We are proud to support

Buffalo Prep

as they help the children of our community realize their dreams.

ALBANY + BUFFALO + GREENSBORO HACKENSACK +NEW YORK CITY + PALM BEACH ROCHESTER + SARATOGA SPRINGS + TORONTO HODGSONRUSS.COM + HODGSONRUSS.CA

There is no better exercise than lifting people up.

Our Independent Health RedShirtsSM are dedicated to the health of our members and our entire community.

That’s why we’re proud to support Buffalo Prep for doing their part to help underrepresented students prepare for and achieve academic success in an effort to better themselves.

©2023 Independent Health Association, Inc. IH33194

Fueling the lives of our community.

National Fuel is proud to fuel the future of our community by partnering with Buffalo Prep.

nationalfuel.com

Here

IS PROUD TO SUPPORT

Explore our Master’s, Doctoral and Certificate program in:

Buffalo Prep and the Class of 2023

is how you take on a new school of thought.

• • • •

COUNSELING INFORMATION LEADERSHIP TEACHING

Fully online programs are available.

ed.buffalo.edu

BUFFALO 237 Main Street Suite 600 Buffalo, NY 14203

SARASOTA 8586 Potter Park Drive Suite 113 Sarasota, FL 34238

877-852-7628 www.MillerGesko.com

Driving a Stronger

Community

Proud to support

Buffalo Prep 39 dealerships throughout Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse

westherr.com A PROU

D PA RTN

ER O

LO PR F B U FFA

EP SINC

E 2020

Where leaders are made

LUE A V T S E B A U O Y S E U L A THAT V We’re proud to be recognized as a best value school, but our real value goes deeper than dollars and cents. As one of only 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the nation, we’re part of a 475-year-old tradition of academic excellence that’s grounded in a commitment to justice and equity.

A Top 10 Best Value School SEVEN YEARS IN A ROW U.S. News & World Report 2023

Schedule your visit at canisius.edu/visit

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE BUFFALO PREP CLASS OF 2023!

We are so proud of our Park seniors:

Vaughn

Kayla

Chase

PARK IS WNY’S ONLY PRE-K THROUGH GRADE 12 & MONTESSORI CO-ED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL. www.theparkschool.org

716.839.1242

Wishing Celebration Co-Chairs Jennifer Daily Gress and Jimmy Chebat a successful and wonderful evening!

Lamparelli Construc�on Co., Inc. would like to congratulate the Buffalo Prep Seniors at Celebra�on.

We look forward to seeing all you will accomplish!

The Murray Family Remembers Buffalo Prep Founder G.E. “Red” ” Murray 1916-2005

And

Eleanor Murray 1922-2018

Proud Supporters of

B u f f a lo P r e p

“... treating people as they ought to be, helping them become all they are capable of ...”

Congratulations to the Class of 2023!

We are so excited to see what the next chapter brings for our Prep Scholars!

-David & Shelley Kimelberg

A brighter tomorrow Since 1989, Buffalo Prep has helped thousands of local students find the opportunity they deserve. We have a responsibility to move our community forward and are proud to support your important mission.

DelawareNorth.com A Global Leader in Hospitality and Entertainment © 2023 Delaware North

SLWM is a proud supporter of Buffalo Prep.

We congratulate Buffalo Prep Class of 2023 on your achievements.

RCG is honored to celebrate Buffalo Prep’s Class of 2023.

Congratulations to this year’s Graduating Class!

- Luis (Class of ‘97) and Jessica Rodriguez

WITH YOU FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION. www.rodriguez-cg.com | 716.464.3257 | info@rodriguez-cg.com

2023 from from the the Benderson Benderson Family Family &&

Congratulations to SEM’s Buffalo Prep alumnae!

We honor and celebrate your commitment to education.

Class of 2023, you will continue to accomplish amazing things!

Independent day and boarding school for college-bound girls 205 Bidwell Parkway, Buffalo, NY

"...You will not always be able to solve all of the world's problems at once but don't ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own."

Michelle Obama

Congratulations Class of 2023!

You are courageous and our hope for a brighter future.

Thanks to Buffalo Prep staff and faculty for all they do for the scholars!

-Jock and Betsy Mitchell

,

opening one door opens doors across our community.

An investment in education is an investment in the future. That’s why KeyBank is proud to support people and programs that focus on helping children and adults in our community reach their full potential. We believe in creating opportunities for students to grow and excel and appreciate everyone who helps prepare them to achieve their goals.

KeyBank thanks Buffalo Prep Inc. for making a difference.

©2023 KeyCorp. KeyBank Member FDIC. 221108-1326908-1256456540

Congratulations Seniors, wishing you continued success on your journey!

-Kathie A. Keller

Md Sabid, Andrea, Aquila, Eshal, Unique, Isabella, Aluel, Anger, Shamaya, Cyan,Luis, Eyerusalem, Masani, Isaiah, Daniel, Carlos, River Jordan, Lakari, Dakota, Chris, James, Jamell, Maria, Deng, Domonique, Ahnaf, Vaughn , Diego, Beteal, Mercury, Gloria, Olga, Jaylin, Kayla, Tegsti,Maria, Hashim, Natalia, Elijah, Nicole, Malik, Jenna, Brendon, Nevaeh, Seh, Derrick, David, Samara, Summer, Khayri, Mohammed, Shafay, Eh Htoo, Adrienne, Eliana, Arsema, Aniah, Fiona, Chase, Noel, Gianna, Malik, Deng

WE PROUDLY SUPPORT BUFFALO PREP

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2023!

ZIZO is always in the game for today's youth and tomorrow's leaders. Buffalo Prep 2023, it's your time to shine. It's Game Time!

WWW.PLAYZIZO.COM

Congratulations to the Class of 2023 You did it! Congratulations on graduating and making it to the next chapter in your lives. Now, go out there and take the world by storm!

Love, Your Buffalo Prep Family

Congratulations Phillips Lytle proudly supports Buffalo Prep’s Celebration. We applaud this year’s graduating high school scholars for their dedication to academic success.

ONE CANALSIDE, 125 MAIN STREET, BUFFALO, NY 14203 (716) 847-8400 | PHILLIPSLYTLE.COM © 2023 Phillips Lytle LLP

to Buffalo Prep’s graduating high school scholars and steadfast supporters.

Kaleida Health www.kaleidahealth.org

Congratulations to the Class of 2023!

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNER COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

I

n 2021, Buffalo Prep announced the college partnership initiative to support College Prep scholars with access, financial support, networking, mentorship, and dual enrollment. Prep is partnered with Canisius College, Daemen University, D’Youville University, Niagara University, and Villa Maria College. Buffalo Prep is working on adding other local colleges and universities. A special thank you to the University at Buffalo for their continued support; Buffalo Prep is proud to be an affiliate of the University at Buffalo.

The support from these college partners is life-changing for Prep scholars. In addition to the financial support, the leadership team is working with each college’s leadership team to ensure that Buffalo Prep graduates enter a welcoming and inclusive environment. The college partners have committed to allowing access to meet with Prep alumni on campus for check-in meetings and social and emotional support. Buffalo Prep is excited about the work done so far and looks forward to what’s to come.

Board of Directors Officers and Executive Committee Luis A. Rodriguez, Jr. ’97 President Chief Executive Officer Rodriguez Construction Group Mary Ann Coulson Immediate Past President Senior Vice President and Branch Manager (Retired) Morgan Stanley Dr. Shelley M. Kimelberg Vice President Director of Interdisciplinary Degree Programs University at Buffalo Betsy Mitchell Treasurer Community Volunteer Honorable JaHarr Pridgen ‘94 Secretary Chief Judge Buffalo City Court Jodyann Galvin Governance Chair Partner Hodgson Russ LLP Matthew Becton ‘01 Senior Manager Verizon

Stephen W. Bell Managing Director Steve Bell Communications LLC Dina Benderson Community Volunteer Shannon Bryant Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Kaleida Health Francisco Guzmán Deputy Commissioner, Department of Public Works, Parks, & Streets City of Buffalo Honorable Craig D. Hannah Supreme Court Justice New York State Scott Horrigan Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Alkegen Kathie Keller Treasurer Keller Technology Corporation Kevin Kerl Executive Vice President Chief Administrative Officer AML RightSource

Alexandra Montante Community Volunteer Jeff Pappalardo Partner/Chief Creative Officer Crowley Webb Everett Pefley Senior Finance Manager M&T Bank Corporation Dr. Suzanne Rosenblith Dean and Professor Graduate School of Education University at Buffalo George Schoeneman Director, Strategy & Planning – Risk and Control Office for Operations & Technology Americas, Mitsubishi Financial Group/Union Bank Gellenia Smallwood Senior Director, Early Childhood Services Say Yes Buffalo Tracy Woodrow Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer M&T Bank Corporation Eric Yarwood Executive Director Education Collaborative of WNY

Staff and Administration Management and Administration Patti Stephen President Joseph Bieron, DSW, MSW Director of Community Wellness Moira Ciechoski Senior Director of Operations Ashley Coder Director of Development Marcus Deveso Assistant Director Chief Program Officer Alex Dzadur Director of IT Operations Elizabeth Guzmán Admissions and Recruitment Manager Emily Jimenez ‘13 Program Coordinator David Johnson Senior Director of College Prep Ashley Middleton Development and Event Coordinator Grace O’Connor Director of Community Relations

Christina Petit Director of Admissions and Recruitment Stephanie Rivera Director of Scholar Success Programming Lysette Vazquez-Moore ‘13 High School Prep Program Manager, Admissions Coordinator

Middle School Prep Vanessa Boyd Middle School Prep Program Manager Teachers Amanda D’Angio Jason Dormann Eve Everette Clara Fonda Elizabeth Herle Lucas Potter ‘13 Ericka Rivera Carol-Sue Stapleton Katie Swanson Aaron Swenson Jack Wall Teacher Assistants Unique Allen ‘19 Mahkhi Armstead ‘20 Yayla Blodgett-White ‘16 Tim Callahan ‘18 Ben Cordero ‘18 Reza Karim ‘20 Shafay Shahzad ‘19 Arsema Tedros ‘19

Prep Scholars Academy

College Prep

Ericka Rivera Program Manager

Chelsea Allen College Prep College Counselor

Teachers Linda Cruz Velasquez Wilmarie Fernández

Kazi Mahmud College Prep Coordinator

Teacher Assistants Diego Guzmán ‘19 Mirakle Rodgers ‘20

Prep Chat Mentors Leiah Renford’ 07 Kenny Vargas

High School Prep

Tutors Joe Bieron Rebecca Cefaratti Wendy DaCosta James Ferrantini Clara Fonda Angelica Gonzalez Bailey Kinn Sulaiman Meriles Demry Nafisa Shamim Anika Ullah

Lysette Vazquez-Moore ‘13Program Manager Teachers Ta’Ria Adamou ‘08 Linda Alegria Hannah Fay Jessica Lattanzio Elizabeth Novoa Michelle Wing Teacher Assistants Aaron Hall ‘18 Anika Khanam Nicole Ndayishimiye ‘19 Dakari Sawyers ’18 Loom Soe ‘20 Adrienne Steele’19

Learning and growing is important.

At M&T Bank, we know how important it is to support education and lifelong learning. That’s why we offer our time, energy and resources, and encourage others to do the same. Learn more at mtb.com.

M&T Bank is proud to support Buffalo Prep.

Equal⁻ousing⁻ender⁻©⁻T⁻Bank⁻ember⁻DC⁻ ″upport⁻provided⁻by⁻The⁻T⁻Charitable⁻oundation⁻and⁻its⁻corporate⁻sponsor⁻T⁻Bank