2022 Celebration Tribute Booklet

Honoring the senior scholars in Buffalo Prep’s class of 2022.

Thursday, May 5, 2022

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4/1/22 3:00 PM

Mission Our mission is to provide access and preparation for talented, underrepresented youth to achieve success in college preparatory high schools and higher education.

Vision We envision a future where all scholars have the opportunity to pursue excellence and success in a community that nurtures their individual talents, goals, and selves.

Schedule of Events

Welcome Ashley Rowe WKBW 7 Eyewitness News Anchor Benjamin Cordero High School Prep Class of 2018, Oishei Scholar

Opening Performances Na’Mia Kelly High School Prep Class of 2018, Oishei Scholar Dakari Sawyers High School Prep Class of 2018 Tribute to the High School Prep Class of 2018

Ashley Rowe | Benjamin Cordero

Sponsor and Partner School Recognition

Ashley Rowe | Benjamin Cordero

Remarks & The David Kash Patti Stephen Student Champion of the year award Robert G. Wilmers Endowed Executive Director Honoree Recognition Luis A. Rodriguez, Jr. ‘97 Buffalo Prep Board President Moog, Inc. Acceptance and Remarks

Mark Graczyk & Chantal Benton

Peter C. Cornell Trust Acceptance and Remarks

Chris Greene

Dinner Scholarship Recognition Ashley Rowe | Benjamin Cordero Alumni Speaker & Distinguished Alumni Award Matthew A. Becton ‘01 Buffalo Prep Board Member Alumni Council Chair Senior Recognition Prep Rally

Ashley Rowe | Benjamin Cordero

Closing Remarks Todd and Dina Benderson Luis ‘97 and Jessica Rodriguez Celebration Co-Chairs

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. Their commitment to Buffalo Prep made it possible for us to move into our first permanent residence in Allen Hall last year!

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 Todd and Dina Benderson and Luis ‘97 and Jessica Rodriguez, committee members, staff, board members, scholars and 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.

Na’Mia Kelly

Buffalo Seminary

Semira Vincent

Treycee Soto

Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School

Jayden Whitt

Buffalo Seminary

St. Mary's High School

Monet Thongchanh

Benjamin Cordero

Jade Rutledge

Mount St. Mary Academy

Ja’Onni McClerkin

Canisius High School

Peyton Leftwich

St. Francis High School

Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart Cardinal O'Hara High School The Park School of Buffalo Nardin Academy

Key Reh

St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute

Nichols School

Rebecca Shaw

Timothy Callahan Darnell Dallas

Shamira Williams The Gow School

THANK YOU!

A TRIBUTE TO THE PETER C. CORNELL TRUST With great pleasure, Buffalo Prep honors the Peter C. Cornell Trust for its impactful and steadfast philanthropy.

Dr. Peter C. Cornell, a savvy Buffalo businessman who was one of three early investors in Trico, recognized the importance of supporting economic development, education, and the arts in his beloved community. The Peter C. Cornell Trust was established in 1949 upon Dr. Cornell’s passing. More than 70 years later, his legacy is still carried on through family members and local community leaders.

The Peter C. Cornell Trust has mainly focused on supporting economic development and education, broadly interpreted to include both formal and nonformal education and training for people of all ages to meet social, cultural, educational, health, and economic needs in their community. The Peter C. Cornell Trust primarily funds organizations and programs in Buffalo, Western New York, and the Niagara Region. Since its inception, the Peter C. Cornell Trust has awarded almost $11 million.

The Peter C. Cornell Trust has supported Buffalo Prep since the program’s start, making a significant impact on the organization for more than three decades. The Peter C. Cornell Trust has invested in Buffalo Prep’s expanded pipeline of programs and the Prep for Tomorrow Capital Campaign, co-chaired by Peter C. Cornell Trust trustee and former Buffalo Prep board member Jock Mitchell.

Most recently, the Peter C. Cornell Trust provided support for Prep scholars’ academic engagement and social-emotional well-being through the COVID-19 pandemic.

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 Peter C. Cornell Trust is a prime honoree.

A TRIBUTE TO Buffalo Prep is exceptionally pleased to honor Moog, Inc. for being actively committed to promoting diversity throughout their company and fostering an inclusive workplace.

With headquarters in Elma, Moog, Inc. is an American-based designer and manufacturer of electric, electro-hydraulic, and hydraulic motion controls and systems for applications in aerospace, defense, industrial, and medical devices. The company operates worldwide under three segments: Aircraft Controls, Space & Defense Controls, and Industrial Systems.

Moog, Inc. is known for its innovation. Still, beyond creating exciting technologies that solve complex technical challenges, Moog, Inc. believes that to be truly successful, it must do its part to improve the world for the current and future generations. Moog, Inc.’s support of Buffalo Prep over the past 31 years, including sponsoring the To Infinity & Beyond science lab in Allen Hall, epitomizes this commitment to their community.

Founder Bill Moog sought to form a collegial atmosphere where people were free to exercise their creativity and initiative, stating, “Our philosophy at Moog is a simple one. We believe in the people who work for us. We believe work can be a rewarding and satisfying experience for everyone in an atmosphere of mutual trust and confidence.” The current leadership at Moog, Inc. has honored Bill’s legacy and vision by participating in Buffalo Prep’s READI program - a series of workshops, trainings, and presentations designed to encourage a deeper examination of climate and policies that provide opportunities for all voices to be involved in meaningful discussion and action planning.

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, Moog, Inc. is a most deserving honoree.

“Buffalo Prep’s READI program has allowed our team leaders to accelerate their own

personal diversity, equity, and inclusion journeys. Marcus and the Buffalo Prep team create an environment that fosters open dialogue and allows participants to feel comfortable addressing topics that for decades have been difficult to discuss. We look forward to future READI discussions. Thank you, Buffalo Prep!” -- MOOG, Inc.

A Thank You From the Seniors As we all know, these last four years have been quite a challenge, starting with the anxiety of freshman year, a time peppered with questioning your identity and carefully choosing the times to fit in or stick out of the crowd; then, sophomore year, when we were finally starting to get the hang of things, remembering teachers’ names, signing up for AP classes, and making high school memories.

But it was all cut short. The pandemic sent us all into a spiral. We were stuck at home, away from the friends we had finally made, and way too close with our families. It was hard for everyone, teachers trying to navigate online learning, parents trying to keep jobs, and us, just trying to hold on to what we could of our high school experience.

While it was a feat in itself to make it through a global pandemic, it was even more difficult trying to figure out who we were and what we wanted to do with our lives without a conventional high school support system, especially junior and senior year. But we weren’t alone. Buffalo Prep has always been the saving grace for students across WNY but in these last four years, Buffalo Prep seems more like a miracle. No matter how bad it got, Buffalo Prep was always there, not as an organization but as a community.

From online meetings with tutors, group chats, personalized interview help, from college applications to just being there to talk when we needed emotional support, Buffalo Prep is more than just a place to get help with homework, it’s a second family.

And so, we thank you. We thank every sponsor because, without each of you, private education wouldn’t be possible for a lot of us. You have changed lives, giving kids who maybe weren’t even planning on going to college the opportunity to become doctors, lawyers, and peacemakers.

We thank the teachers and counselors at Buffalo Prep. Because of the countless hours of time and energy you have devoted to us and our success, we’ve made it through some of the hardest years of our lives. We cannot thank you enough for laying the foundation of confidence and hard work, both inspiring us and giving us the skills to apply to top universities and dream schools. None of this would be possible without you all.

And lastly, but most importantly, we thank our families. You have taken the time and energy to make sure we surpass every boundary. From driving us to Buffalo Prep for tutoring, to basketball practice, student government meetings, to staying up late nights to help with essays, we recognize your devotion and love and appreciate it more than words can express. We could have never gotten this far without the love and support you have given us.

We are so excited to move into the next stage of our lives, becoming high school graduates, college freshmen, and most importantly Buffalo Prep alumni. Wearing that title is a distinction that none of us will ever forget. And for that, we thank you all.

All the best,

The Buffalo Prep Class of 2022

CELEBRATION SPONSORS Presenting Sponsor

Reaching Potential Sponsors

M&T Bank

Arc Building Partners D’Youville University EBC HR & Payroll Solutions, Inc. Education Collaborative of Western New York Globalquest Staffing Solutions Harbortown Financial Group Ms. Kathie A. Keller KeyBank Lamparelli Construction Company, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Jock and Betsy Mitchell Moog, Inc. Niagara Metals Park Edge Sweet Shoppe Phillips Lytle LLP PricewaterhouseCoopers University at Buffalo

Match Sponsors

Alkegen Delta Sonic l The Benderson Family

Creating Opportunity Sponsors Deloitte & Touche LLP Mr. and Mrs. Norman and Thuy Murray

Realizing Dreams Sponsors Buffalo Bills Buffalo Sabres Foundation Crowley Webb Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York Hodgson Russ LLP Keller Technology Corporation The Kimelberg Family National Fuel Gas Company Pegula Sports + Entertainment Rodriguez Construction Group SelectOne World Wide Bonding Agency

Inspiring Young Minds Sponsors Bishop Timon - St. Jude High School Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart Buffalo Seminary Cardinal O’Hara High School Mount Mercy Academy Mount St. Mary Academy Nardin Academy Nichols School St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute

Scholar Ticket Sponsors

Mr. and Mrs. John and Julie Baldo • Canisius College • Ingram Micro Inc. John W. Danforth Company • Mader Construction Company, Inc. NCAComp, Inc. • Nixon Peabody LLP • Rich Products Corporation Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

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 universitiies who 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.

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.

Niagara University Brennan Scholarship

For more than 150 years, Niagara University has been educating students in the Catholic and Vincentian tradition. 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, room and board at Niagara University for up to four years.

The Hodgson Russ LLP Diversity Scholarship

For over five years, Hodgson Russ LLP has supported the Buffalo Prep scholars. 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.

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.

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

PAST CELEBRATION HONOREES 1998 - 2021

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

SUPPORT OUR SCHOLARS

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

Thank you to Alkegen, the Benderson Family, and Delta Sonic for matching donations raised during our virtual event! This generous support from the Match Sponsors, 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!

CELEBRATION COMMITTEE Event Committee Chairs TODD AND DINA BENDERSON LUIS ‘97 AND JESSICA RODRIGUEZ

Event Committee Members HOLLY CERCONE PEGGY CORDERO BETH DABOLL DIANA DINARDO GAIL ETTARO JEN GRESS ANNA HARTOG LAURA HETTRICK COURTNEY HUNTER ELIZA KAYE

RANDILYN KIMELBERG PAIGE LAMPARELLI LAUREN LEWIS CARLISLE LIPKE ALEX MONTANTE ADINA PERA ASHLEY SODERLUND MAUREEN TOMCZAK

Student Committee Members

ADRIANNA AWALD • LAYAH FORTUNE • AARON HALL • XAVIER LAMAR DAKARI SAWYERS • REBECCA SHAW

Deluxe In-Kind Donors

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

Grades 5

Grades 5 and 6

Grade 7

PIPELINE OF Prep Scholars Academy A community-based summer enrichment program designed to help scholars excel throughout middle school and prepare them for high school.

Middle School Prep

Prep Bridge

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

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.

Grade 8

Grades 9 - 12

Beyond Prep

PROGRAMS High School Prep

College Prep

Alumni Prep

A nationally recognized 14-month program that prepares scholars to enter one of our partner high schools.

Academic support, college advisement, enrichment opportunities, and social-emotional counseling throughout high school.

Support and connection during post-secondary education and beyond.

A TRIBUTE TO THE CLASS OF 2022 Dear Class of 2022, 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 towards 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 work force, 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. Alexys

Mr. David

Congratulations to the 2022 Graduates!

Each student in the following pages has participated in Buffalo Prep’s College Prep progamming. 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 socialemotional support,and meet Buffalo Prep’s income eligibility guidelines (listed as College Prep scholar)

Corryn Aiken South Park High School College Prep Scholar

Adrianna Awald Mount Mercy Academy Oishei Scholar

Fina Bell Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart High School Prep Graduate

Damion Brown, Jr. Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Elizabeth Burkhart Sweet Home High School High School Prep Graduate

Timothy Callahan Canisius High School High School Prep Graduate & Oishei Scholar

Benjamin Cordero Nichols School High School Prep Graduate & Oishei Scholar

Rebecca Crews-Dearing Leonardo daVinci High School High School Prep Graduate

Darnell Dallas St. Francis High School High School Prep Graduate & Oishei Scholar

Layah Fortune Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart High School Prep Graduate

Cecile Gihozo Nardin Academy High School Prep Graduate

Hugues Gitego Canisius High School High School Prep Graduate

Akon Guem Nardin Academy High School Prep Graduate

Aaron Hall St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute High School Prep Graduate

Eman Hasson Hutchinson Central Technical High School College Prep Scholar

Janasia Hayward Cardinal O’Hara High School High School Prep Graduate

Alijah Hedley City Honors School High School Prep Graduate

Amira Hedley Nardin Academy High School Prep Graduate & Cullen Scholar

Diamond Hill Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Makhi Horton Nichols School High School Prep Graduate

Shaniece Jackson Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Riya Juma Health Sciences Charter School High School Prep Graduate

Na’Mia Kelly Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate & Oishei Scholar

Maha Khan Nardin Academy College Prep Scholar

Xavier LaMar Tapestry Charter School High School Prep Graduate

Peyton Leftwich Nardin Academy Oishei Scholar

Michael Marks Canisius High School High School Prep Graduate

Heaven McAdory Mount Mercy Academy College Prep Scholar

Ja’Onni McClerkin The Park School of Buffalo Oishei Scholar

Omar McKelley, Jr. Charter School for Applied Technologies High School Prep Graduate

Evelyn Moppins Maritime Charter School College Prep Scholar

Kaleah Morris Burgard High School High School Prep Graduate

Lars Munana Williamsville North High School High School Prep Graduate

Angelina Myles Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate

Sydney Norman Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart College Prep Scholar

Abdi Osman Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Glaw Reh St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute High School Prep Graduate

Kee Reh St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute Oishei Scholar

Plu Reh St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute College Prep Scholar

Jade Rutledge Cardinal O’Hara High School Oishei Scholar

Curtis Samuel Maritime Charter School High School Prep Graduate

Dakari Sawyers Canisius High School High School Prep Graduate

Onvida Serixay Buffalo Seminary Cullen Scholar

Zoya Shahzad Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate

Rebecca Shaw Mount St. Mary Academy High School Prep Graduate & Oishei Scholar

Erin Smith Health Sciences Charter School High School Prep Graduate

Treycee Soto Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School Oishei Scholar

Stephanie Syl-Akinwale Mount St. Mary Academy College Prep Scholar

Kevin Thompson Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School High School Prep Graduate

Monet Thongchanh Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart High School Prep Graduate & Oishei Scholar

Tess Trammell Nardin Academy College Prep Scholar

Daniella Vaquero Buffalo Seminary High School Prep Graduate

Dominic Velasquez Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School Cullen Scholar

Semira Vincent Buffalo Seminary Oishei Scholar

Tajmim Wahed Rizma Frederick Law Olmsted High School College Prep Scholar

Emeka Wajed The Park School of Buffalo Cullen Scholar

Leah White Hutchinson Central Technical High School High School Prep Graduate

Jayden Whitt St. Mary’s High School Oishei Scholar

Jahleel Williams Amherst Central High School High School Prep Graduate

Shamirra Williams The Gow School Oishei Scholar

Christopher Williams, Jr. The Park School of Buffalo College Prep Scholar

Anyiang Yak City Honors School High School Prep Graduate

Aleyah Yarbrough Nardin Academy High School Prep Graduate

Staff and Administration Management and Administration Patti Stephen Robert G. Wilmers Endowed Executive Director Chaniqua Bailey Assistant Director of Academic Programming Moira Ciechoski Director of Program Operations Ashley Coder Director of Development Marcus Deveso Assistant Director, Director of Academic Programming Alex Dzadur Director of IT Operations Gina Gonzalez Administrative Assistant Elizabeth Guzmán Admissions and Recruitment Manager Myles Hervey ‘13 Alumni Coordinator

David Johnson Director of College Counseling Services Grace O’Connor Director of Community Relations, Development Manager Christina Petit Director of Admissions and Recruitment Stephanie Rivera Manager of College Prep Services Alexys Swygert Director of College Prep Services

Middle School Prep Vanessa Boyd Middle School Prep Manager Jason Dormann Lucas Potter ‘13 Ericka Rivera Jean-Jacques Sibomana Carol-Sue Stapleton

Prep Scholars Academy Lourdes Machuca-James Program Manager Wilmarie Fernández Ericka Rivera

High School Prep Ta’Ria Wideman ‘08 Program Manager Linda Alegria Hannah Fay Jessica Lattanzio Michelle Wing

College Prep Joe Bieron Rebecca Cefaratti Wendy DaCosta James Ferrantini Clara Fonda Angelica Gonzalez Kazi Mahmud Sulaiman Meriles Demry Leiah Renford ‘07 Nafisa Shamim Kristina Sisyukin Anika Ullah Kenny Vargas

The Class of 2022 have been accepted into the following schools Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Alfred University American University Bennett College Buffalo State College Canisius College Carlow University Clarkson University Cornell University D'Youville University Daemen University DePaul University Drexel University Elmira College Emerson University Fisk University Fordham University Georgia State University Hamilton College Hampton University Hilbert College Houghton College Howard University Indiana Tech Kent State University Keuka College Lawrence Tech LeMoyne College Lincoln University (PA)

Loyola Chicago Loyola Marymount Medaille College Mercyhurst University Middle Tennessee State University Milwaukee School of Engineering Morehouse College Morgan State University Nazareth College New York University Niagara University North Carolina A&T Nova Southeastern University Ohio State University Ohio University Pacific Oregon Penn State University Pratt Institute Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rochester Institute of Technology St. Bonaventure University St. John Fisher College St. John's University Stony Brook University SUNY Erie

SUNY Fredonia SUNY Geneseo SUNY Oneonta SUNY Oswego SUNY Plattsburgh SUNY Polytechnic Institute SUNY Potsdam Temple University University at Buffalo University of Albany University of Kentucky University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Michigan University of Pittsburgh University of Rochester University of Virginia Villa Maria College Wellesley College Wells College West Virginia University Wilkes University

Here

is how you take on a new school of thought.

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

• • • •

COUNSELING INFORMATION LEADERSHIP TEACHING

Fully online programs are available.

ed.buffalo.edu

Proud Sponsor of Buffalo Prep Congratulations to Graduating Scholars

www.szycpa.com

from from the the Benderson Benderson Family Family &&

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

And

Eleanor Murray 1922-2018

Proud Supporters of

Buffalo Prep

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

Deloitte is proud to sponsor Buffalo Prep’s annual Celebration of Achievement Congratulations class of 2022!

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.

www.deloitte.com Local contact: Jim Brennan Upstate NY Managing Partner jbrennan@deloitte.com Copyright © 2022 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved.

s n o i t a l u t a r g n Co

graduates!

CPAs | consultants Outsourced Solutions

ctbk.com

Believe in a brighter future.

Believe in the strength of our community and what’s on the horizon.

The compassion of the Cross and the security of the Shield are here to protect you — for 86 years and counting.

Congratulations to Buffalo Prep’s graduating high school scholars.

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York is a trade name of Highmark Western and Northeastern New York Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS WITH U More resources. More opportunities.

More open doors.

We are now D’Youville University. Receive the attention of a private university with the prestige of internationally respected degree programs. As a student at D’Youville, you’ll work alongside our visionary, socially conscious faculty in a supportive environment designed to help you succeed.

The future is bright. Welcome to the next era of D’Youville.

DYC.EDU

Congratulations to the Class of 2022!

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

-David & Shelley Kimelberg

Congratulations to the Class of 2022!

Proud Partner of Buffalo Prep’s Celebration of Achievement

JULY 14-16 GIVE716.ORG

Albany - Hackensack - Palm Beach New York City - Buffalo - Toronto Rochester - Saratoga Springs www.hodgsonruss.com www.hodgsonruss.ca

HELPING STUDENTS REALIZE DREAMS We proudly support Buffalo Prep’s graduating class of 2022 students as they celebrate their academic successes and plan for their exciting futures.

Patrick DeNisco

Financial Consultant | Equitable Advisors Partner | Harbortown Financial Group, LLC 350 Essjay Rd, Suite 300 Williamsville, NY 14221 p. (716) 276-7605 | c. (716) 574-4442 | f. (716) 631-4764 www.equitable.com | mailto:patrick.denisco@equitable.com

ARCBUILDINGPARTNERS.COM

Proud supporters of student success and community enrichment World Wide Bonding Agency is honored to celebrate the accomplishments of Buffalo Prep and its Class of 2022. We are committed to helping provide accessible and innovative quality education and pledge to support services to diverse learners in pursuit of lifelong learning, training, career advancement, and pathways to college.

NIAGARA METALS Buffalo • Cheektowaga • Niagara Falls • Royalton 2846 William Street, Buffalo, New York 14227

Owned and operated by Todd Levin

PH: (888) 681-7685 • FAX (716) 681-7685 wwbagency.com

The outpouring of support from our community over the past year has done so much good – more than you’ll ever know.

RoswellPark.org/StartToHeal

Together, we’re making an impact and fostering hope in our patients and throughout our communities because celebrating even the small victories, can mean something big.

Thank you for always being there for us and just know that Roswell Park will always aspire to bring hope to those who need it.

50975

PASSIONATE

ABOUT MAKING A DIFFERENCE.

Independent Health is proud to support Buffalo Prep for their passion for making a difference. Their commitment to excellence and dedication to help improve the lives of others brings the essence of the RedShirt® Treatment to life.

independenthealth.com ©2022 Independent Health Association, Inc. IH31944

UB

Focusing our energy on what matters.

National Fuel is proud to partner with Buffalo Prep.

celebrates

YOUR SUCCESS!

Congratulations to this year’s graduating class! Your accomplishments are an inspiration to all of us at the University at Buffalo. To our colleagues at Buffalo Prep, we are proud to support your vital work, we embrace your mission of academic excellence, and we look forward to watching future generations of Buffalo Prep scholars soar in pursuit of their dreams.

nationalfuel.com

Rebecca Shaw Class of 2022

Stephanie Syl-Akinwale Class of 2022 Congratulations to the Buffalo Prep Scholars from Mount St. Mary Academy!

Kelley Bros provides quality products from some of the most respected manufacturers in their fields. Our product offering is complemented by our suite of services which includes welding and modifications of doors and frames, emergency door service, pre-installed hardware, field repairs and installation, key system management, specification writing, and delivery to you or your job-site.

Visit us on the web: www.kelleybros.com

Or Call Today

716-684-8665

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 © 2022 Phillips Lytle LLP

Helping students thrive PwC is proud to support Buffalo Prep as part of our commitment to creating opportunities and meaningful change in the world.

TheNewEquation.com © 2022 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership. All rights reserved.

2022-Buffalo Prep 2022 Ad.indd 1

Congratulations Seniors, wishing you continued success on your journey!

3/24/2022 10:56:28 AM

Congratulations to the Buffalo Prep St. Joe's Class of 2022 Aaron Hall '22 Glaw Reh '22 Kee Reh '22 Plu Reh On behalf of the entire St. Joe's community, congratulations to all of the young men and women who discover and achieve their dreams with the support of Buffalo Prep.

-Kathie A. Keller

Corryn, Adrianna, Fina, Damion, Elizabeth, Timothy, Benjamin, Rebecca, Darnell, Layah, Cecile, Hugues, Akon, Aaron, Eman, Janasia, Alijah, Amira, Diamond, Makhi, Shaniece, Riya, Na’Mia, Maha, Xavier, Peyton, Michael, Heaven, Ja’Onni, Omar, Evelyn, Kaleah, Lars, Angelina, Sydney, Abdi, Glaw, Kee, Plu, Jade, Curtis, Dakari, Onvida, Zoya, Rebecca, Erin, Treycee, Stephanie, Kevin, Monet, Tess, Daniella, Dominic, Semira, Tajmim, Emeka, Leah, Jayden, Jahleel, Shamira, Christopher, Anyiang, Aleyah

Where Buffalo Works.

StaffBuffalo & HRBuffalo Provides: Executive and Permanent Staffing Solutions Talent Acquisition Outsourcing HR Compliance, Support, and Outsourcing

Congratulations to the Class of 2022 Brady Corporation is proud to support the committment and hard work of Buffalo Prep’s graduating seniors.

716.262.9153

StaffBuffalo.com

2491 Wehrle Dr, Buffalo, NY 14221 | www.bradyid.com/corporate/careers ©2022 Brady Corporation

INGRAM MICRO HELPS COMPANIES FULLY REALIZE THE PROMISE OF TECHNOLOGY. Ingram Micro delivers a full spectrum of global technology and supply chain services to businesses around the world. Deep expertise in technology solutions, mobility, cloud, and supply chain solutions enables business partners to operate efficiently and successfully in the markets they serve.

Learn more at ingrammicro.com.

IS PROUD TO SUPPORT

BUFFALO PREP

Congratulations Class of 2020 877-852-7628 www.MillerGesko.com

Everything you need.

Plus equipment.

From safety/operator training and equipment management technologies, to custom solutions engineered to meet specialized job requirements, United Rentals offers much more than just the world’s largest rental fleet. It takes a lot to get the job done right. We’re here to help.

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

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

WebbMason Marketing is a proud supporter of Buffalo Prep.

We congratulate Buffalo Prep Class of 2022 on your achievements.

Better Outcomes.

For over 30 years, we’ve been helping clients throughout industry and sector create better business outcomes, providing upstream strategy and creative services in addition to downstream production and distribution…both on and offline.

To learn more, visit webbmason.com info@webbmason.com | 716.276.8792 | Joe Miner

Strategy & Creative Services • Company Stores • Printing • Branding • Direct Mail Marketing • Digital Advertising • Website Design

GEOGRAPHY ALGEBRA

Conquering this many twists and turns calls for celebration.

Congrats to the Buffalo Prep Class of 2022.

“Children are apt to live up to what you believe of them.”

- Lady Bird Johnson, Former First Lady of the United States

Celebrating Buffalo Prep’s commitment to help students reach their full potential.

716.834.5000 | uniland.com

Explore our full suite of real estate services at: uniland.com

YOUR LOCAL CHOICE In WNY for Waste & Recycling Solutions for over 50 Years

Modern is committed to serving our customers and communities.

We are pleased to support the Buffalo Prep Celebration and offer sincere congratulations to Moog, Inc., the Peter C. Cornell Trust, and especially the Buffalo Prep Class of 2022.

800-330-7107 ModernCorporation.com

Our children’s strongest advocate.

turnerconstruction.com

People who work to help our children are investing in the future of our community. It’s why we support programs that focus on helping local kids reach their full potential. We recognize those who prepare them to achieve their goals through a good education in a nurturing environment.

KeyBank thanks Buffalo Prep for making a difference.

Building the future with Turner. ©2022 KeyCorp. KeyBank is Member FDIC. 190104-521095-1230191813

RCG is honored to celebrate Buffalo Prep’s Class of 2022.

Congratulations to this year’s Graduating Class!

- Luis (Class of ‘97) and Jessica Rodriguez, Co-Chairs

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

It has been an honor to support Buffalo Prep over the last several years as Unifrax.

We’re pleased to continue our support as Alkegen at this year’s Celebration of Achievement.

Congratulations and good luck to the outstanding Class of 2022 Buffalo Prep Scholars.

Alkegen, formerly Unifrax and Lydall, brings together two companies creating a one-of-a-kind specialty materials platform dedicated to human health and sustainability.

Alkegen helps people breathe easier, live greener and go further than ever before.

Dr. Peter C. Cornell would be so proud!

Congratulations to the Class of 2022!

-Peter C. Cornell Trust

Congratulations to SEM Seniors

Angelina Myles

Zoya Shahzad

Semira Vincent

Na’Mia Kelly

Onvida Serixay

Daniella Vaquero

You’ve made the most of your time at Prep and at SEM and leave firmly on the path toward remarkable adulthoods.

BuffaloSeminary.org Independent day and boarding school for college-bound girls

EBC HR & Payroll Solutions is proud to sponsor the Buffalo Prep Celebration.

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

-Jock and Betsy Mitchell

Thank you Buffalo Prep for making a difference in our children's future!

We are

happy to join with the community to help kids reach their goals.

A big congratulations to the Class of 2022.

ebchcm.com 716.674.7900

CONGRATULATIONS Buffalo Prep Class of 2022!

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

"There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure." ......Colin Powell The Gernatt Family of Companies joins Buffalo Prep and their sponsors in the “Celebration” event of 2022 honoring our scholars of the future!

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL!

(716) 532-3371

F o r q u al i t y s a nd , g r av el & a sp h al t pr od u ct s!

Pickup

gernatt.com

Delivery

Buffalo Prep Thanks our Partner Colleges

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FRIENDS AT BUFFALO PREP NCA is proud to support youth and education in our communities

Fr. Michael Sajda, OFM cOnv. PreSident- St. FranciS high SchOOl Making Workers’ Compensation Work Since 1991™

ncacomp.com

4129 lake ShOre rOad haMburg, nY 14075 (716) 627-1200

WWW.STFRANCISHIGH.ORG

2021 - 2022 Board of Directors Officers and Executive Committee Luis A. Rodriguez Jr. ’97 President Chief Executive Officer Rodriguez Construction Group

Stephen W. Bell Managing Director Steve Bell Communications LLC Dina Benderson Community Volunteer

Mary Ann Coulson Immediate Past President Community Volunteer

Shannon Bryant Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Kaledia Health

Dr. Shelley M. Kimelberg Vice President Director of Interdisciplinary Degree Programs University at Buffalo

John Dandolph President & Chief Executive Officer Alkegen

Honorable JaHarr Pridgen ‘94 Secretary Buffalo City Court Judge Buffalo City Courts

Francisco Guzmán Deputy Commissioner, Department of Public Works, Parks, & Streets City of Buffalo

Betsy Mitchell Treasurer Community Volunteer

Honorable Craig D. Hannah Chief Judge Buffalo City Courts

Jodyann Galvin Governance Chair Partner Hodgson Russ LLP

Kathie Keller Treasurer Keller Technology Corporation

Matthew Becton ‘01 Senior Manager Verizon

Alexandra Montante Community Volunteer Jeff Pappalardo Partner/Chief Creative Officer Crowley Webb

Everett Pefley Senior Manager M&T Bank Corporation Vivian Quinn Partner Nixon Peabody 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 Tracy Woodrow Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer M&T Bank Corporation Eric Yarwood Executive Director Education Collaborative of Western New York

Learning and growing is important.

Left to right – Rashida Dowell (’98), Ashley Wagstaff (’11), Chavuanne Cousins (’99), Magan Russ (’98) and Julia Paulk (’10).

At M&T Bank, we know how important it is to support education and to help students become lifelong learners. Through our support, we help our young people to succeed today, and provide inspiration for tomorrow. We are inspired by the Buffalo Prep graduates who are today valued members of the M&T Bank team. Learn more at mtb.com.

M&T Bank is proud to be a founding supporter of Buffalo Prep.

Equal Housing Lender. ©2019 M&T Bank. Member FDIC.