Canisius Magazine - Summer 2022

CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2022

President John J. Hurley takes his leave from Canisius following 25 years of steady and decisive stewardship of the college

president’sperspective As I plan to retire after 25 years of service to Canisius, this last President’s Perspective is normally a time to offer personal reflection and warmly welcome my successor, Steve Stoute.

The events of May 14 in Buffalo, however, changed everything. The racially-motivated murders at the Tops Markets, just a stone’s throw from the campus, have been absolutely traumatic for our community, most especially the Black community of Buffalo. For those out-of-town readers who have been following this story in the national media, it’s very difficult to put into words the impact something like this has had on our neighborhood: the initial shock and grief of the murders, the profound sadness of funerals celebrated one by one, the outpouring of support from so many quarters, and then, the anger and resentment that racism is at the root of not only these horrible crimes but also so many things that hold back the Black community in Buffalo.

And because this is Buffalo, there are not six degrees of separation but rather just one degree, between Canisius College and the victims and their families. Aaron Salter ’22, the brave security guard who confronted the gunman, turned out to be just three credits short of his Canisius degree. We were able to award that degree posthumously at commencement. Salter met his wife, Kimberly, when they were students at Canisius.

Pearl Young, another victim, lived on Glendale Place alongside the Montante Cultural Center. Zaire Goodman, the young man who survived a shot in the neck, is the son of Canisius graduate Zeneta Everhart ’11. Garnell Whitfield, a high school classmate of mine, lost his mother. A high school classmate of my daughter lost her father.

As I write, our grief-stricken community is asking the question: When the dead are mourned and buried, when the television cameras depart, and when the flow of food, supplies and money slows, will we finally be able to join hands and commit to the very difficult work of eradicating racism in our midst and rebuilding our East Side of Buffalo so that fair and equal access to education, housing, health care and jobs are assured for all?

In my final message to you, members of the Canisius family, I want to impress upon you the Society of Jesus’ Universal Apostolic Preferences that call us to accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future and to walk with the poor, the outcasts of the world, those whose dignity has been violated in a mission of reconciliation and justice.

Canisius College is called to stand for hope, justice and reconciliation at this very difficult time. We must respond.

Pursuing this vision has been a great labor of love for me as I know it will be for President-elect Stoute. I am grateful for the privilege to have served you as Canisius’ president over the past 12 years and will always keep the home of the Golden Griffins close to my heart and in my prayers for the next phase of the journey.

features Blue & Gold Briefs

4 Commencement 2022

Ceremonies honor graduates and pay tribute to a hero alumnus

Cover Story

8 Faith, Justice, Leadership

President John J. Hurley takes his leave from Canisius following 25 years of steady and decisive stewardship of the college

Advancement

14 Support for

Science Hall Alumni gifts set pace for next phase of renovation

Alumni Spotlights

16 Forward Progress

<<< Ashley Lynn MSA ’07 rises through the

ranks to become the first female director of player engagement for the NFL’s New York Giants

26 Social Studies

Tán Ho ’14 co-founds an online social productivity platform to provide educational access for students worldwide

blue&goldbriefs

blue&goldbriefs

Fields Appointed New VP for Student Affairs Brings collaborative, student-centric leadership approach

College Magazine SUMMER 2022 I VOLUME 23, ISSUE 2

Canisius concluded its national search for a new vice president for student affairs and dean of students in May, with the appointment of Harold O. Fields, EdD. Fields will start at the college in mid-July. He comes to Canisius from the Rochester Institute of Technology where he has served the past five years as director of residence life and in various other roles since 2008.

President John J. Hurley

“Dr. Fields impressed us with his knowledge and grasp of the critical issues facing Canisius and our students, his dedication to student-centric leadership, commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and collaborative leadership approach,” said incoming President Steve Stoute in announcing the appointment. “I am confident he will bring a fresh perspective to the important work of leading the Division of Student Affairs, and have a meaningful impact on the Canisius community.”

Associate Vice President, Assistant to the President Erica C. Sammarco ’00 Chief Communications Officer & Executive Editor

As the leader of the Student Affairs Division, Fields is responsible for the strategic planning and assessment efforts of those areas under his purview, which primarily include the ALANA Student Center, and the offices of Campus Ministry, Public Safety and Student Life.

Additionally, Fields is jointly responsible for the Griff Center for Student Success and the college’s study abroad program.

Eileen C. Herbert ’04, MS ’15 Managing Editor Audrey R. Browka Creative Director Patty Herkey Art Director Sue Hough Contributing Writers Erik Brady ’76 Summer Handzlik Martin J. Haumesser Johnson Ly ’20 Theresa M. Pszonak ’21 Sarah J. Sterzinger ’18, MS ’21 Erin Zack ’00, MS ’04 Photography Brianna Blank ’14 Tom Wolf ’86 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 Postmaster send change of address to: Canisius College, 2001 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14208

President John Hurley presents Aaron Salter III, the son of fallen Tops Markets security officer, a posthumous bachelor’s degree during 2022 commencement ceremonies.

Commencement 2022

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE SUMME R 2022

Emerita Professor Sandra M. Estanek, PhD, who has served as interim vice president for student affairs since July 2021, will return to teaching part-time in the Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration (HESAA) program in fall 2022.

Ceremonies honor graduates and pay tribute to a hero Canisius President John J. Hurley presided over his final commencement ceremonies in May, when he conferred more than 500 degrees to undergraduate and graduate students.

Among those receiving a degree was Aaron Salter Jr. Salter was the security guard working at the Tops Markets on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo on May 14 when a gunman entered the store and killed 10 Black people, including Salter, in a racially motivated hate crime. A retired Buffalo Police Officer, Salter lost his life heroically confronting the gunman. Canisius posthumously awarded Salter a bachelor’s degree during undergraduate commencement ceremonies on May 21. He attended Canisius from 1984 – 1988 but put his education on hold because of work and family. Salter was just three credits (or one class) shy from finishing his degree in communication studies.

His son, Aaron Salter III, accepted the degree from President Hurley on stage, at which time graduates, family members and faculty gave an emotional standing ovation.

“Graduates, I'm afraid that the stark and painful realities of the world are immediately in front of you," President Hurley said in addressing the Class of 2022. "When the going gets tough, and believe me, the going has gotten tough, you may be tempted to simply throw up your hands and conclude that the challenges are too great, that there's little that one person can do to make a difference in this world. But rest assured, your Canisius Jesuit education makes you a very different kind of person.”

In addition to the conferral of master’s and bachelor’s degrees, Canisius recognized eight with honorary doctorate degrees including Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Ukrainian president was honored, in absentia, for his profound leadership since Russia’s invasion of the country.

WEB EXTRA > Visit canisius.edu/magazine to read more about the honorary degree recipients.

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He holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, a master’s degree in student affairs in higher education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a doctor of education degree in higher education administration from the University of Rochester.

Strengthening Faith, Justice and Service

Canisius names Spencer Liechty new campus minister Expect the ministry of faith, justice and service to be strengthened this fall when Spencer Liechty joins Canisius as the new director of campus ministry.

The Office of Campus Ministry helps students of all faiths find, share and reflect on where they see God in their lives. Liechty will serve as a pastoral presence for students and help foster the development of their spiritual growth through personal prayer, liturgy, retreats and service-immersion experiences that espouse the Catholic Jesuit mission.

Liechty is the former coordinator for faith and justice at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH. He holds a BA in political science and an MA in theology, both from Xavier. He was also a Jesuit novitiate of the Midwest Province.

Wehle School of Business Among the Best The Richard J. Wehle School of Business earned a spot on U.S. News & World Report’s list of “Best Graduate Schools” for 2023. The rankings are determined, in part, on the accomplishments of a school’s incoming students and the career outcomes of its graduates.

In addition to being listed among the “Best Graduate Schools” in the country, U.S. News also ranks the Wehle School at No. 8 throughout all of New York State and names Canisius for offering the top private MBA program in Western New York.

U.S. News similarly recognizes Canisius for excellence in its accounting and finance programs, ranking in the top 6 and top 7 percent, respectively, of all graduate programs.

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facultynotes

facultynotes The Canisius College Alumni Association recognized Associate Professor Shawn O’Rourke, PhD, with its 2022 Kenneth L. Koessler Distinguished Faculty Award, during Spring Honors Convocation in May. The annual award recognizes a Canisius professor who demonstrates teaching excellence and outstanding contributions to the academic world.

O’Rourke developed and is director of the undergraduate program in sport management, and graduate programs in sport administration and sport product development, which was one of only two in the country when it launched in 2018.

Fan Favorite

Shawn O’Rourke, PhD, receives Distinguished Faculty Award

All three programs are consistently ranked among the best in the nation and produce graduates who secure successful careers at the intercollegiate, amateur and professional sports levels, as well as in facility and event management.

O’Rourke has 25-plus years of experience teaching sport management and administration in Canada, the United States and Europe, and is revered by students for his “professional, pragmatic and creative” approach in the classroom. They evenly commend O’Rourke for “empowering them to act as servant leaders” in the everevolving and volatile business of sports. With a diverse network of sport industry professionals worldwide, it’s estimated that O’Rourke has placed more than 800 Canisius students with practicums and internships in the sport industry, including the Buffalo Bills, the Buffalo Sabres and the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons.

O’Rourke is a published author in peer reviewed journals and books. Key areas of expertise and interest are online education, quality management and leadership, branding and economic growth strategies. He has delivered scholarship presentations and proceedings in Japan, Portugal and Spain, among other countries.

Larson Lauded for Excellence in Healthcare Aimee Larson, DMSc, was among 26 individuals lauded for excellence in healthcare by Business First and Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York. The award recognizes the region’s top physicians, nurses, administrators and researchers whose work has improved the local healthcare system.

Larson is director of the master’s degree program in physician assistant studies and has extensive experience in the medical field.

She served eight years on active duty as a medic for the U.S. Air Force and worked in several clinical settings involving primary care, neurology and internal medicine.

Larson holds bachelor and master degrees in physician assistant studies from D’Youville College and a doctor of medical science degree from the University of Lynchburg.

Critical components of the PA studies curriculum include clinical assignments and service learning requirements in underserved communities. The goal is to provide students with early exposure to vulnerable communities, and the social and medical issues that affect patient care and health outcomes of patients from diverse socioeconomic, religious and cultural backgrounds.

IN M EM OR IAM Canisius College loses three long-time faculty members.

Aside from his current role as director of undergraduate and graduate sport programs, O’Rourke is co-chair of the Kinesiology Department.

Air Power

David Devereux, PhD, examines how Britain lost its aviation advantage in the wake of WWII Associate Professor of History David R. Devereux, PhD, examines how Britain lost its technological lead to Americans in the development of jet-powered commercial aircraft, in his most recent research published in the Journal of Transatlantic Studies.

Devereux argues that Britain lost its aviation advantage during World War II, when it entered into a war-time agreement with the United States.

The agreement allowed for Britain to utilize U.S.

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transport aircraft, so Britain could grow its already “huge aviation industry that was dedicated primarily to military production,” Devereux explains. Ultimately, the agreement gave the U.S. a significant advantage in post-war civil aviation. “Faced with changing technology, rising costs and the development of U.S. jet aircraft, the British aviation industry – once considered a national asset – was forced into a radical consolidation by the Macmillan government,” Devereux concludes.

Emeritus Professor of English David A. Lauerman, PhD, died March 13 at age 90.

Lauerman joined the faculty in 1962 and was renowned for his excellence as an educator. He created the Academic Development Center and was former dean of the Continuing Studies Program.

Lauerman also served as assistant to the dean for Student Development and to the dean of Developmental Studies.

Emerita Professor of Psychology Marguerite D. (Sherry) Kermis ’72, PhD, passed away on March 17. A licensed psychologist, Kermis came to Canisius in 1977 with an academic focus in lifespan developmental psychology. During her tenure, she designed and implemented a state-registered, 30-hour certificate course in gerontology and was director of the Gerontology Program from 1980 – 1992. Kermis was 73.

Canisius lost Emeritus Professor of Mathematics Richard L. Uschold ’53, PhD, on March 27. He was 93. Uschold joined the Mathematics Department in 1956 and was department chair for several years. A devoted educator and mentor, he served as faculty advisor to the Math Club. Uschold also lent his expertise to the President’s Advisory Council, the Academic Council and was vice chair of the Faculty Senate.

Requiescat in pace SUMME R 2022 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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President John J. Hurley takes his leave from Canisius following 25 years of steady and decisive stewardship of the college

Story: Erik Brady ’76 Photo: Brianna Blank ’14

John Hurley studied history at Canisius College. And then he made some as its first lay president.

His first memory of the college is shining the brass buttons on his brother Paul’s ROTC uniform. That was 60 years ago, when John was six. Since then, fair to say, he has made more memories here.

This summer he will step away after 25 years of service to his alma mater. John J. Hurley ’78 arrived in 1997 as vice president for college relations and general counsel. He was named president in 2010, and now takes his leave as the longest-tenured president currently serving Western New York’s colleges and universities.

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There are many ways to measure a career in higher education.

The college’s endowment ($49 million in 1997; $161 million today) is one way. But numbers never tell the whole story.

Biography is better for that.

Hurley is one of six sons who all earned their degrees at Canisius. His immediate family boasts 19 Canisius degrees.

That counts his own plus those of his siblings and their spouses — and of his and their children. It is a lot of blue and gold.

John was nine when Paul took him to his first Canisius men’s basketball game at Memorial Auditorium. At 11, he began going to Griffs games on his own, riding the Main Street bus from its first stop (at the city line) to its last (at the Aud) on cold Saturday nights.

Then, in 1974, as a senior at St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, Hurley visited Canisius to take a tour and go to some classes.

This happened to be the day that The Griffin published its so-called “Centerfold Issue,” which contained a cartoon of a nearly nude Rev. James M. Demske ’47, SJ, then the college president. This pen-and-ink parody of a Burt Reynolds pose from Cosmopolitan magazine put the campus in an uproar.

“I was editor of the St. Joe’s paper at the time,” Hurley says. “And I remember thinking, ‘Yeah, I’m going to go to Canisius. Looks like a lot of fun down here.’”

He studied English and history in the All-College Honors Program and served in student government — and, like his brother Dan before him, became editor of The Griffin.

John was also a founding member of the Independent Student Coalition, a student lobbying group in Albany, and served a six-month term as its executive director.

It was only the beginning of a lifelong fight for students at independent schools.

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As it happens, Hurley got a second education while an undergraduate at Canisius. He lived in his senior year with five Jesuits who chose to live in a college-owned home at Main and Humboldt, next door to Campion Hall, rather than with the other Jesuits on campus at Loyola Hall.

“Every night we had serious talks around the dinner table,” Hurley says. “We talked about housing issues in Buffalo.

We talked about issues in Central America. This was all new stuff for me. These aren’t things that were talked about in the suburbs.”

Hurley’s year of living Jesuitically came not long after a worldwide congregation in which the Society of Jesus publicly connected its educational mission to the promotion of social justice.

“I learned this is what life should be: You should be plugged into the major issues of the day,” Hurley says. “And because I was living with priests, we talked about these things from a Catholic perspective.”

Hurley graduated summa cum laude in 1978 and went off to Notre Dame Law School, where he met Maureen O’Connell, whose late father had played big-league baseball for several teams, including the Milwaukee Braves. As it happens, the Atlanta Braves are John’s favorite National League team, which is one among many reasons their marriage was meant to be. (Three more: Caroline ’11, MS ’17; Brian, Notre Dame ’13 and Millie ’20.)

“I was reaching the point, as I was approaching 40, where I didn’t know if I wanted to practice law until I was 60 or 70,” Hurley says. “I loved the college and I thought I could help.”

He arrived as Canisius was in the midst of a capital campaign with a goal of $30 million. The campaign ultimately raised $39 million, and much of that money was put into a renovation of Old Main and the transformation of St. Vincent’s into the Montante Cultural Center.

“I think it was a transition point for the college,” Hurley says. “We had a building plan. Enrollment was going up.

The endowment was going up.”

Another campaign commenced in 2007 — with a goal of $90 million. A collapse of the financial markets in 2008 didn’t help but by 2012 the Legacy of Leadership campaign had raised $95.5 million. Much of that was used in the transformation of the former Sears building into Science Hall and to build the college’s endowment. Canisius has invested more than $175 million into the campus since 1994. The college has also invested in the Hamlin Park neighborhood through a program that helps employees who buy homes near campus.

Hurley’s tenure has coincided with a time of disruption in higher education, from rapidly rising costs to demographic trends that mean a smaller college-age population in the state. “This has been a very difficult time for all of us in higher education,” Hurley says, “and Canisius has not been spared.”

John and Maureen graduated from Notre Dame Law and worked at law firms in Chicago for three years. Then they moved to Buffalo, where John worked at Phillips, Lytle, Hitchcock, Blaine and Huber, and Maureen worked at Rich Products, where she rose to executive vice president and chief administrative officer. (She retired in 2016.)

Tuition accounts for 90 percent of the college’s revenue.

Falling enrollment in recent years exacerbated by the global pandemic resulted in a projected $20 million budget shortfall in summer 2020. This led Hurley to the painful decision to cut some positions and some courses in the humanities while adding courses in other disciplines.

Hurley spent 13 years in bankruptcy law at Philips, Lytle and worked his way up to partner. He served a term as president of the Canisius Alumni Association and was about to be become chair of the Board of Regents when Rev. Vincent M. Cooke HON ’10, SJ, the Canisius president, asked Hurley to be his right-hand man.

“You need a sense of urgency when things aren’t going well,” Hurley says. “You can’t sit by and hope things get better; you have to do things to help them get better. We made hard decisions under difficult circumstances. It has meant a decline in positions, which I feel bad about it. It wasn’t easy and it wasn’t pleasant but when you have fewer students, you are going to have fewer people.”

John J. Hurley installed as the 24th president of Canisius College and first lay president in college's history

2010

A Legacy of Leadership: The Campaign for Canisius College concludes with record $95.5 million raised Canisius opens doors to Science Hall

2011 Canisius introduces BS degrees in sport management, health and wellness; MS degree in anthrozoology First Office of Mission & Identity created

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2012

2013 Nelson D. Civello ’67 Family Financial Markets Lab undergoes $400,000 expansion and renovation

I learned that it is important to be engaged in the issues that matter.

Canisius introduces strategic plan: Canisius 150: Excellence, Leadership, Jesuit

Construction begins on $1.4 million renovation to Bouwhuis Library

2014

2015 ESPN3 Golden Griffin Sports Broadcast Center and sports broadcast journalism concentration created

2016

2017 Excellence Within Reach tuition reduction initiative lowers undergraduate tuition by 23% Canisius partners with National Urban Alliance to create Center for Urban Education SUMME R 2022 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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When news broke, in 2018, about how the Diocese of Buffalo handled clergy sex-abuse cases, Hurley spoke out. He and Maureen are among the founders of The Movement to Restore Trust, a group of concerned Catholic lay people. He urged the Church to do more to empower women. The St. Thomas More Guild of Western New York, a group of Catholic lawyers, gave him its top award in 2019. The citation hangs in his office alongside his diplomas from Canisius and Notre Dame.

Hurley has spoken out on a range of issues during his tenure as president, from global poverty to violence in Nicaragua to the dignity of LGBTQ people to the college’s support for “dreamers” — undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children. He has accompanied Canisius students and faculty to Central America and the Philippines to stand in solidarity with the marginalized world.

These are the kinds of things that were spoken of around the dinner table at Main and Humboldt all those years ago.

“It gave me a perspective on the Jesuits I never would have had by just being a student here and having Jesuits in the classroom,” Hurley says. “I learned that it is important to be engaged in the issues that matter.”

Hurley finds comfort in these words. He worried when he came aboard as the college’s first non-Jesuit president that some would see it as a loss for our Catholic-Jesuit identity.

“I felt all eyes were on me: the bishop, the provincial, the Jesuit community, the Jesuits nationally, the alumni,” Hurley says. “They were all wondering, ‘Is this layman going to screw up the Catholic piece?’ Perhaps the greatest compliment I received was in year three or four when someone said to me, ‘You know, we’ve talked about Catholic and Jesuit mission and identity more in the past three years than we did in the previous 25.’”

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Hurley will pass the baton to Steve Stoute, another layman, who will become the college’s 25th president in July.

John has been an indefatigable fundraiser, an eloquent ambassador, and a very nearly perfect embodiment of the values that have always defined Canisius and its graduates.

“Steve represents a new generation of leaders in American Catholic higher education,” Hurley says, “and I couldn’t be more hopeful about the future of Canisius.”

Those dinnertime conversations at Main and Humboldt are a lifetime ago — and ever with him.

“I hung on every word,” Hurley says. “Not understanding everything completely but understanding enough for it to shape my life.”

Rev. Joseph M. McShane, SJ, Fordham University

That year steeped him in Jesuit values, including a commitment to magis — Latin for “more.” It means challenging students to go beyond what is expected in the hope that they will go out into the world with generosity, excellence and empathy.

Sometimes a full understanding of things can wait. As a boy, John tried to read his brother Paul’s college philosophy books. He did not understand them, of course. But he found himself intrigued by the notions these books suggested — of deeper meanings and of the nature of knowledge.

“It is said that the perfect Jesuit graduate is a person whose life is marked by character, competence, conscience, compassion and commitment to the cause of the Gospel,” says Rev. Joseph M. McShane, SJ, the outgoing president of Fordham University.

“John Hurley is all of that and more. From a Jesuit’s point of view, he is a revered and admired ‘companion in mission.’ John has been an indefatigable fundraiser, an eloquent ambassador, and a very nearly perfect embodiment of the values that have always defined Canisius and its graduates.”

“It was the ’60s,” John says. “It seemed like every other course at Canisius then was philosophy.”

College, as we know, is about more than Heidegger and Kant.

It is also about collegiality and friends made for a lifetime. John remembers how Paul’s pals would pick him up in the morning for their carpool to school. John would press his nose to the window as they set off. He longed to go where they were going. Not so many years later, he did.

And the boy who once buffed his brother’s brass buttons grew up to be a president who put a golden gleam on our Golden Dome.

Mission Priority Examen reaffirms Canisius as Catholic, Jesuit institution of higher education Racial Equity Strategic Plan implemented to build more diverse, equitable and inclusive living/learning environment

2018

Canisius partners with local resettlement agencies to house Afghan evacuees arriving in Buffalo

Hamlin Park Initiative concludes with $500,000 invested in renovation of 10 homes

Covid-19 pandemic forces Canisius to pause all on-campus operations and shift to academic contingency plan

BS in integrated marketing communication; MS in finance introduced

Penfold Commons converted into Penfold-Gareis Fitness Center

Endowment stands at $161 million, more than double its $74.4 million value in 2010

2020

2020

2021

2022

New Buffalo Institute established to align research, service and educational programming with greatest community needs

MS in cybersecurity introduced

Canisius takes its first steps into the allied health field with introduction of MS in physician assistant studies

Board of Trustees unanimously appoints John Hurley as president emeritus.

2019

College finalizes first sustainability plan WNY Teacher Residency program is established E-sports lab opens for new club sport in computer gaming MS in data analytics and sport product development introduced

Canisius launches year-long celebration to commemorate college’s sesquicentennial

Canisius partners with UB School of Law to offer 3+3 Accelerated BA/BS Plus JD program

BS in data science; MS in business analytics introduced 4+1 dual degree in adolescence education introduced SUMME R 2022 CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE

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advancement Record Breaking

Blue & Gold Spirit Shines on Giving Day 2022 Golden Griffins across the country (and even the globe) rallied on April 6 to make Canisius Giving Day 2022 the biggest and most successful to date. More than 1,900 donors, from 42 states and four countries generously contributed nearly $510,000 to this successful campaign. Helping to boost the record-setting campaign were several challenge and matching gift opportunities made possible by lead gifts from 11 donors, totaling $173,000. The support will provide critical resources to bolster student scholarships, power championship athletics, provide hands-on learning opportunities and fuel the college’s exceptional academic programs.

Support for Science Hall

Alumni gifts set pace for next phase of renovation Two lead gifts from alumni are setting the pace for the next phase of renovations to Science Hall.

Long-time benefactors John W. Rowe ’66, HON ’02, MD and Valerie A. Rowe, PhD, contributed $1 million toward the project.

Their gift was followed by another in the amount of $500,000 from John R. ’72 and Patricia (Ziegler) ’74, MS ’01 Connolly. Their generosity supports renovations to Science Hall, an $18 million project that includes the development of classroom, laboratory and office space on the second and third floors of the building.

The college is financing the project with a $4.4 million challenge grant from New York State, which must be matched on a 3:1 basis. To date, Canisius has secured more than $3.8 million in commitments for the project.

“The Rowes and the Connollys have been wonderful supporters of Canisius College throughout the years and we are most grateful for their generous gifts,” says Canisius President John J. Hurley. “The renovations to Science Hall are an essential project which, when complete, will allow Canisius to fully capitalize on the strength of its undergraduate science programs.”

John Rowe is the former chair and CEO of Aetna, and credited with leading the company through a remarkable turnaround that made it a national leader in healthcare benefits and management.

He is currently the Julius B. Richmond Professor of Health Policy and Aging Health Policy and Management at Columbia University.

Valerie Rowe enjoyed a four-decade career as an educator. She

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advancement

earned her doctorate at Fordham University and was a clinical associate professor at the institution’s Graduate School of Education (GSE) in the Division of Curriculum and Teaching.

John Connolly is the retired executive vice president and chief financial officer for Tecomet Inc., a leading contract manufacturer of precision-engineered medical devices, and an emeritus member of the college’s Board of Trustees. Patricia (Ziegler) Connolly is a retired special education teacher in the Williamsville School District, where she worked more than two decades.

Both the Connollys and Rowes are longtime proponents of Science Hall and recognize the opportunities that the facility affords students: John Rowe is a successful graduate of the college’s science program. Patricia Connolly holds in high regard the Institute for Autism Research, which is housed in Science Hall and has developed several effective programs to enhance the lives of children affected by autism.

Canisius has invested $47 million in the purchase and development of Science Hall in the past decade.

The building currently houses the departments of Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, as well as the George E. Schreiner ’43, MD, Pre-Medical Center and the Physician Assistant (PA) Studies program. When complete, it will provide new and modern space for two of the college’s largest majors: biology and ABEC (animal behavior, conservation and ecology).

It’s amazing to experience Giving Day on campus. Thank you, donors, for your outpouring of support and for being so selfless by giving back and supporting the education of myself and classmates.

Emily Van Kessel ’21, MBA ’22

“On behalf of everyone at Canisius, I would like to express our overwhelming appreciation and gratitude to all those who cheered and celebrated during this historic day of giving,” said Kimberly Venti, vice president for institutional advancement.

On campus, faculty, staff and students gathered to celebrate the day at several activities hosted across campus. The high-energy experiences helped highlight what Canisius Giving Day is all about — Griffs coming together for something much bigger than themselves.

No matter the amount, areas supported or number of gifts, each contribution truly matters. While Giving Day is just one day, contributions last a lifetime because they change the lives of students. Thank you Griffs!

Familiar Face to Lead Canisius Fund Erin (Lawless) Zack ’00, MS ’04 assumed a new role at Canisius this summer, as senior director of annual giving and stewardship. The appointment follows her three-year tenure as director of Alumni Engagement.

In Zack’s new position, she strategically directs and executes the college’s annual fundraising program, which works to secure critical current-use support from all Canisius constituents to meet the most urgent financial needs of students and the college.

Zack holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminal justice, and a master’s degree in college student personnel administration, both from Canisius.

To make a gift to support to Science Hall, please contact Kimberly Venti, vice president for institutional advancement, at 716.888.8220 or via Email at ventik@canisius.edu.

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alumniprofile

ASHLEY LYNN MSA ’07 RISES THROUGH THE RANKS TO BECOME THE FIRST FEMALE DIRECTOR OF PLAYER ENGAGEMENT FOR THE NFL’S NEW YORK GIANTS Story: Martin J. Haumesser Photo: NY Giants

alumniprofile

I keep my degree in my office drawer as a personal reminder that I was prepared thanks to Canisius.

When former Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Brian Daboll became head coach of the New York Giants this year, Ashley Lynn MSA ’07 was among the first team directors he met. Same with former Bills players Tyrod Taylor, Robert Foster and Jon Feliciano who have also joined the Giants this season.

As director of player engagement for the Giants, Lynn – the first woman in franchise history hired for the position – works to help players and staff navigate life in the NFL. Her position could have its own playbook, as she handles multiple responsibilities all aimed at helping the players and coaches off the field.

Lynn may help onboard rookie players who turn pro by providing them with guidance on managing their finances. Or, when a player is traded to the Giants, Lynn is there “to help find housing, schools for children, family doctors” and more she explains. She is also there if a player is injured during a game, communicating with his family and “keeping them up to date on the injury.”

Born in Pasadena, CA, Lynn is no stranger to the NFL. Her father, Johnnie Lynn, played cornerback for the New York Jets in the early 1980s and then went on to a 20-year coaching career. She kicked off her own career in high school when her father was a defensive backs coach with the Giants and she babysat for players’ children. After earning a degree in communications from Hampton University, Lynn worked in the entertainment industry before looking for a position in the sports world. But she was at a disadvantage.

“About 90 percent of my colleagues in the field have played college or professional football giving them a player’s perspective,” she explains. “That’s not to mention that I am a woman of color trying to break into a sport dominated by men – there were some barriers blocking my career path.”

Lynn decided to further her education to balance her lack of experience on the playing field. After some research, she applied to the college’s online masters of sport administration program. Shortly after she graduated, a coordinator position opened with the Giants and Lynn was hired. She was named assistant director of player engagement in 2014 and director in 2021.

“My Canisius degree has made such a difference – it gave me the added confidence to pursue a career in the NFL,” Lynn concludes. “Professors such as Dr. Shawn O’Rourke gave me the tools I needed. I keep my degree in my office drawer as a personal reminder that I was prepared thanks to Canisius.”

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Honoring the Presidency of John J. Hurley

Masiello ’69, HON ’96, Wortham ’79 Awarded LaSalle Medals Anthony M. Masiello ’69, HON ’96 and Lee C. Wortham ’79 are the 2022 recipients of the LaSalle Medal.

Conferred annually by the Alumni Association during undergraduate commencement ceremonies, the LaSalle Medal is bestowed upon individuals whose contributions have advanced the interests of alma mater.

Best known as a basketball standout at Canisius, Anthony Masiello continues to score points for alma mater. He is a member of the Board of Trustees, which formulates and recommends policy to the college president. The Sports Hall of Famer is also a loyal advocate of the Coach’s Circle, a group dedicated to supporting the men’s basketball program, and is credited with helping to fund the 2008 renovation of the men’s basketball locker room and its state-of-the-art accommodations.

Anthony Masiello

During his tenure as Buffalo’s 57th mayor, Masiello kick-started a rebirth of the city, which resonated at Canisius.

He continues these efforts today as president and partner of the lobbying firm Masiello, Martucci, Calabrese and Associates, where Masiello works with decision-makers at every level to bring change to key issues and challenges that face the region.

Lee Wortham is partner and chief operating officer at Barrantys LLC, an investment, estate and tax planning firm – and a true asset to Canisius College. He served seven years as a member of the Board of Trustees, including four (2017 – 2021) as chair. During this time, Wortham lent his knowledge and expertise to lead the strategic planning, finance, facilities and investment committees. He oversaw a 50 percent growth in the endowment and was a critical thought partner on often challenging institutional decisions throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

More than 500 of President John J. Hurley’s closest family, friends and supporters gathered at the Atrium@Rich’s on May 6 to celebrate his 25-year legacy at Canisius College.

President Hurley announced early this year that he would retire from the college on June 30, after serving 12 years in the leadership position and 13 as vice president for college relations and general counsel. He is currently the longest tenured president among Western New York colleges and universities.

Hurley reflected on this distinction during his evening remarks.

“My work here over the past quarter century has been truly vocational,” he said. “It is borne out of a deep and abiding love and respect for what this college has accomplished and what it has meant to so many thousands of graduates and their families, and the people of this community.” He continued, “We’ve had pressures over the past decade but Canisius continues to stand tall and strong, and we are so blessed with loyal alumni and benefactors who have made so many things possible.”

Hurley concluded, “May God bless each one of you and may God continue to bless our beloved Canisius College.”

WEB EXTRA > Visit canisius.edu/magazine to view a video tribute of President Hurley.

Alumna Returns to Canisius to Lead Alumni Engagement Cece Gotham ’13, MS ’15 to build upon comprehensive alumni programming Canisius named Cecelia Gotham ’13, MS ’15, the new director of alumni engagement, although she is not new to the college.

Gotham holds a BS in marketing and MS in communication and leadership, both from Canisius. After graduation, she began work as assistant director of stewardship and events in the college’s Institutional Advancement Division.

Following a five-year hiatus from Canisius, Gotham returned to alma mater this summer to advance the college’s alumni programming. In her new role, she is responsible for engaging graduates in the life of the college, expanding current career development initiatives and developing new missioncentric programs.

Gotham most recently worked as assistant director of donor relations at Fordham University, and is the former associate director of regional volunteers and programs at the University of Rochester.

She replaces Erin (Lawless) Zack ’00, MS ’04, who was appointed senior director of annual giving and stewardship (page 15).

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In addition to his role with the Trustees, Wortham is a former member of the Board of Regents and the benefactor behind the Lee C. Wortham ’79 Family Scholarship Fund, established to help others obtain a Canisius education. Most recently, Wortham joined the Honorary Committee formed to recognize the retirement of President Hurley.

Lee Wortham

Save the Date

Leadership Society Reception

Sports Hall of Fame Induction & Reception

Thursday, August 11

Saturday, September 17

Seven new members joined the prestigious DiGamma Honor Society during induction ceremonies at The Buffalo Club. DiGamma is comprised of Canisius alumni, faculty, administrators and students who have distinguished themselves through exemplary service to the college over an extended period of time.

This year’s inductees are (front, l-r) Elizabeth A. Edbauer ’87, health and social services volunteer, Lynn A. Dobmeier Pullano ’85, president of All Good Consulting; (middle) Sara R. Morris, PhD, Canisius College vice president for academic affairs, Cindy L. Odom ’90, chief advancement officer for Hillside; and (back) David Schmidt ’90, retired partner for Ernst & Young, Sababu C. Norris, retired director of Multicultural Programs at Canisius College and Anthony Kroesse, president of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. (Not pictured: inductee Gerald M. Pullano ’85, chief financial officer for Thruway Fasteners Inc.) SUMME R 2022

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alumninotes from Allied Motion Technologies Inc. where he was corporate controller and treasurer.

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‘94 BS, MBA ‘10 Michael C. Floccare Sr. was named senior relationship manager and vice president at Karpus Investment Management in Buffalo.

He previously worked as senior vice president and relationship manager at Key Private Bank.

Peter V. Tonsoline ’70, MS ’85 BA, History / MS, Education Career Highlight: Peter Tonsoline, a veteran high school coach and administrator in the Iroquois Central School District, was inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame. Tonsoline was the school’s athletic director and also coached field hockey, girls ice hockey, girls lacrosse and softball. He collected more than 1,500 wins during his coaching career.

Career Notes: A longtime advocate for girls’ high school sports, Tonsoline was integral in the formation of the girls Western New York Varsity Hockey Federation, and fought for equal use of practice facilities for girls varsity sports during the 1980s.

1970s ‘71 BS John A. Kosek retired from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he was assistant director of the Center for Electrochemical Energy Storage. Prior to MIT, Kosek had a long career directing electrochemical research and development for Giner Inc. in Newton, MA. ‘75 BS, MBA ‘80 Michael E. Makey received the Lay Award of St. Joseph the Worker from the Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher, Bishop of Buffalo.

The award recognized Makey’s selfless service and devotion to Queen of Heaven Church in West Seneca.

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‘88 BS Paul R. Shosho was promoted from senior director of business systems to vice president for corporate information technology at ACV Auctions. He’s been with the Buffalobased company since 2019.

1990s ‘90 BA Jennifer A. Carlo is the new virtual assistant for the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and Jac Zagoory Designs, both in New York City. She previously owned American Tomboy, a brand apparel company.

1980s

’92 BA Andrew J. Kennedy, a lawyer with the Colkitt Law Firm, PC, has been elected vice-chair of the Monroeville Finance Authority.

‘84 BS Margaret (Prebis) King is the new managing director of SingleSource Accounting LLC, a division of Tronconi Segarra & Associates LLP. She was the corporate controller for The Buffalo News.

‘92 BS Glenn W. Osswald is an assistant vice president for information technology service management and incident manager at M&T Bank. He joined the company after working six years at Synacor.

‘85 BS, MBA ‘91 Bryan J. Donohue joined Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC as its new chief operating officer (COO).

He previously was COO of Freed Maxick CPAs, PC.

‘93 BS Christopher J. Thome was appointed vice president for finance and chief financial officer at Graham Corporation in Batavia, NY. The company designs, manufactures and sells equipment for the defense, space, energy and chemical industries. Thome joined Graham

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‘94 BS Thomas J. Tobin is a teaching, learning and technology specialist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he is a founding member of the university’s Center for Teaching, Learning & Mentoring. In this role, Tobin serves as a consultant for projects that advance and evolve the teaching practices, learning environments, and learner-support interactions across the university. Tobin previously served as a program area director of the university’s Distance Teaching & Learning program.

‘94 MS David L. Harten Watson, an award-winning, young-adult fantasy novelist, authored his fourth book, Extinction Notice: Tales of a Warming Earth. The book is comprised of speculative fiction stories, which show in an entertaining way, what sorts of calamities can happen in the future if humans do not take global warming seriously.

‘95 BA Michael J. Ball was promoted to vice president for community affairs at Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, where he oversees corporate community investments and partnerships. He previously was director of the company’s Blue Fund, which awards grants to Western New York organizations and initiatives that have a positive impact on key health areas.

‘96 BS Jason A. Kraus was promoted from director of enterprise application to vice president of IT service delivery at Hyundai Capital America in Irvine, CA. He has been with the company since 2007.

‘97 BA David C. Greenman is the new vice president for institutional advancement at Medaille College.

He previously was associate vice president for institutional advancement at Niagara University.

‘97 MS Saima M. Horab became a school counselor at St. Mary's High School in Lancaster, NY. She previously worked as assistant director of graduate programs at Niagara University.

‘97 Jeff Patterson was appointed chief executive officer of Suburban Adult Services Inc. (SASi), an Elma-based non-profit agency that provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Erie, Cattaragus and Wyoming counties. Patterson previously was CEO of Empower (formerly Niagara Cerebral Palsy).

‘98 MSEd Peter M. Hoffman joined Empower Retirement in Pittsburgh, PA, as a new retirement plan consultant.

Prior to this, he worked as a financial professional for Prudential Financial in Wexford, PA. ‘98 BA April R. Sanders, PhD, was promoted from sales communication manager to account executive at Uniland Development in Amherst, NY. In her new role, Sanders works with clients and brokers to explore available commercial space within Uniland’s portfolio and coordinate with the company’s planning and design, construction and property management teams to deliver a seamless move-in experience.

‘99 BS Sara M. Abrams was promoted from data informatics specialist to vice president for project management and data analytics at Rochester RHIO, a regional health information exchange serving the Greater Rochester, New York area.

‘99 MS (David) Reid Ockerman is the new senior implementation manager at Datto Inc., a global provider of cloudbased software located in Albany, NY. He joined the company after serving four years as a client project manager at Transfinder in Schenectady, NY.

2000s ‘00 MBA Anthony J. Delmonte Jr. is the new executive vice president and market manager at M&T Bank. In this role, he oversees Western New York’s business banking and is responsible for M&T’s relationships with small and midsized businesses. Delmonte is the former president and CEO of Bank of Akron.

‘00 BS Amy L. Dommer was named Professional of the Year by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AHPERD), Central North Zone chapter. The award is given to "an outstanding administrator or teacher who is recognized as an extraordinary leader and who has contributed exceptional service to the association and his or her profession." Dommer is head coach for the Herkimer College women’s soccer team.

‘00 MS Jaimie L. Falzarano is a new executive coach and leadership development facilitator for Executive Coaching Connections, a global people and organizational development advisory firm. In addition, Falzarano is managing director of LeaderCORE at the University at Buffalo School of Management, where she leads the program and its strategic direction.

‘00 BA Trisha M. Lehnen joined the public tax accounting firm AM Suchar in Jamestown, NY, as an accountant.

Lehen is the former owner of a third generation Cassadaga Shur Fine, where she managed finances and taxes for 13 years.

’00 MS A'Frica T. Sheppard was appointed principal at Aliquippa Junior High School in Aliquippa, PA. She previously served five years as principal of Aliquippa Elementary School.

‘01 BA Kevin M. Eddy was elected partner at the Pittsburgh, PA, law firm off Blank Rome. He focuses his practice in the area of corporate litigation, representing companies in the energy, construction and manufacturing industries. Eddy joined the firm in 2018.

‘02 BS Timothy D. Calkins was promoted from director of fixed income investments to co-chief investment officer at Nottingham Advisors Asset Management. He has been with the company since 2017.

‘02 BS Shauna L. Green was named head coach of the women’s basketball team at the University of Illinois. She previously spent six seasons as head coach of the women’s basketball team at Ohio’s University of Dayton.

‘02 BA Tracie M. Zamiska joined Curate, a software platform company for event professionals, as its lead customer success manager.

‘03 MS Melissa L. (Haight) Farrell was promoted from managing director of clinical operations to vice president of certified community behavioral health center services at Spectrum Health and Human Services. She joined the company in 2007.

‘03 MS, MSEd ‘04 Chaka N. FelderMcEntire was appointed associate principal at Naugatuck High School in New Haven, CT. She is a 20-year education administrator with expertise in leadership, diversity and equity, school counseling and career readiness.

Felder-McEntire is also the founder and executive director of Higher Heights Youth Empowerment Programs Inc., which works with under-represented college-bound students to ensure they obtain a post-secondary education.

‘05 MSA Stephen J. Clar is a new assistant professor of sports management at Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, IA. He is also an adjunct professor in the sport administration program at Canisius, and previously worked as associate director of academic and membership affairs for the NCAA. ‘05 MS Kimberly A. (McCormick) McCrea joined the Alexander Central School as a new school counselor for grades 6 - 9. She previously worked as a building based substitute in the Iroquois Central School District and a long-term substitute school counselor at Kenmore East High School.

‘05 BA Patrick D. McNally is a new attorney in the Beckage law practice, where he focuses his concentration in the areas of incident response, data security and privacy. Previously, he was executive secretary at Export-Import Bank of the United States.

‘05 MS Daniel J. Sepion was appointed associate dean of students at West Virginia University Institute of Technology. He previously held the same position at Blackburn College in Carlinville, IL. ‘05 BA Chantele M. Thompson, chief equity and inclusion officer at Child & Family Services of Erie County Inc., received Business First’s IDEA Award.

The award recognizes individuals who prioritize diversity and inclusion in their work.

‘06 BA, MBA ‘09 Dana M. (Tintner) Bennett is the chief strategy and implementation officer at Chartwell Law. She was director of strategic development at the civil litigation firm of Goldberg Segalla.

‘06 BS Jennifer L. Eick is the assistant athletic trainer at American Heritage Schools in Palm Beach, FL, where she also works as a certified athletic trainer for Premier Sports Medicine LLC. She previously worked as an assistant athletic trainer at Maryville College in Maryville, TN. ‘06 BA Margaret A. Hurley was promoted from senior associate attorney to partner at Lippes Mathias Wexler Friedman LLP. She concentrates her practice in commercial and municipal litigation, contract disputes, commercial mortgage foreclosures and tax lien foreclosures, among other areas.

‘07 MBA Stacy E. (Lewis) Beauford, lieutenant in the Buffalo Police Department, was elected president of the Buffalo State College Alumni Association.

‘07 BA Max D. Buetow became the new president and chief executive officer of CoxHealth in Springfield, MI. He was promoted from his role as vice president and chief operating officer.

Buetow has worked for CoxHealth since 2012.

‘07 BS Theresa L. (Mauro) Costales, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist, is the new medical director of Connections Health Solutions in Phoenix, AZ. She most recently was the medical director at Lifewell, which provides treatment, services and support for low-income individuals diagnosed with serious mental illness.

‘07 BA Kate A. LaPort, PhD, was promoted from senior research scientist for talent assessment to principal research scientist at Amazon in Washington, D.C. She has been with the company since 2017.

2010s

‘07 BA Brandon P. Senior is pursuing his doctorate degree in higher education at Virginia Tech, where he has a graduate assistantship with the Global Education Office. He was an assistant director of advising and diversity student support for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University.

‘07 BA Elizabeth S. Spavento is the new executive director for The Arts Council of Kern in Bakersfield, CA. She comes to the position with more than 13 years of arts administration experience, including national level grant opportunities in partnership with the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Arts.

‘10 BS, MBAA ‘11 Matthew K. DeVincentis was promoted from senior manager to partner at the accounting firm of Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP. ‘10 BS Anthony Gagliardi is head of global financial crime governance and controls at Coinbase. He previously worked as head of U.S. financial crime compliance governance at Societe Generale.

‘10 BA Jocelyn M. O’Steen was promoted from category support coordinator to E-commerce coordinator at Tops Markets.

‘10 BA Dustin R. Snyder founded and is the chief consultant for Wayforward Associates, an organizational development firm. He is the former president of Aurubis Buffalo Inc.

‘07 BS, MBA ‘19 Nicholas C. Stevens was promoted from assistant vice president for retail banking and wealth management at HSBC to vice president for wealth operations at the financial institution. Stevens joined HSBC in 2007.

‘10 BS Kyle M. Westerholt, MD, an emergency medicine physician with UBMD, received New York ACEP’s Unsung Heroes Award. The award acknowledges emergency medicine professionals who go above and beyond for their colleagues, patients and community.

‘08 BA Stephanie R. Peete, business partnership manager for Say Yes Buffalo, received Business First’s IDEA Award, which recognizes individuals in Western New York who prioritize diversity and inclusion in their work.

‘11 BS Jeff M. Amplement was promoted from assistant manager of grants and government affairs to planning project manager at the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA). He has been with the authority since 2014.

‘09 BS Devney E. Ayers is a new search consultant for gpac. The Cleveland, OH company recruits and develops top talent. Ayers was an instructional designer for CrowdDoing, where she developed educational and learning aspects of a public health mobile application.

‘11 BA Jeffrey Hartinger became a public safety telecommunicator for Erie County. He also completed a one-year term as a board member for Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum.

‘09 BA Sean P. Flynn is the new associate editorial director at Food & Wine Magazine in New York City.

He was the executive editor at Foundry 360.

‘09 BA Amber (Lindke) Mante joined the data platform Monte Carlo in Austin, TX, as an enterprise account executive.

She previously held a similar position at Looker in San Francisco, CA. ‘09 BS John M. Willis, PhD, is a new software engineer at Unsupervised and works out of China Grove, NC. Prior to this, he was a data scientist at Lowe’s Company Inc.

‘11 BS Andrew T. Lidowsky is a new senior court attorney in Queens County Supreme Court. Previously, he worked as an appellate court attorney in New York State Supreme Court’s appellate division (second judicial department) in Brooklyn, NY. ‘11 BA Emily R. Louis is the community manager for Yelp in Buffalo. She previously worked in the nonprofit industry, most recently for PUSH Buffalo and through her consulting business, Live Inspired Events.

‘11 MS, MBA ‘12 Lisa M. (Keidel) Shackelford is the new marketing specialist for Millennia in RaleighDurham, NC. She previously worked as a marketing communications specialist at the Jim Allen Group, also in Raleigh.

‘12 BA Jennifer L. Gracz is a new personal insurance account manager at Lawley. She previously worked five years at GEICO, selling home and auto insurance, and working in compliance and performance monitoring.

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alumninotes ‘13 BA William P. Freeman recently earned his EdS in educational leadership and is pursuing his doctor of education degree (EdD) from the same university.

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‘13 MS Adam J. Griffith is the new career services coordinator at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in Rochester, NY. He joined the institution in 2013 and most recently served as area director for career services.

Alisa N. Officer ’10, MSEd ’12 BA, Adolescence Education / MSEd, Differentiated Instruction Alicia N. Officer ’10, MS ’12 BS, Accounting / MS, Forensic Accounting Career Highlight: Alisa and Alicia Officer co-founded and are co-owners of Unapologetic Coffee. The company brings affordable, ethically-sourced, roasted coffee to underserved communities, and is dedicated to sustainable business practices.

The twins recently expanded the business after winning 2nd place at the Multicultural Innovation Lab pitch contest, sponsored by M&T Bank and Canisius College.

Career Notes: Alicia Officer is chief executive officer of Unapologetic Coffee and works as a capital fund accountant for the city of Buffalo. Alisa is chief operating officer of the business, and director of curriculum and instruction at the Health Sciences Charter School.

‘12 MSA Jordie Kindervater is the new associate athletic director for development and major gifts at Syracuse University. He was the assistant athletic director for development and major gifts at the University of Mississippi. ’12 MS Christopher R. Lauth was appointed director of operations for the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Tampa Bay, FL. He joined the non-profit after serving three years as associate director of community education at Bowling Green-Warren County.

‘12 Maria V. Morse joined the Nave Law Firm in Syracuse, NY, as an associate attorney. She previously served as an associate at Tully Rinckey PLLC, also in Syracuse.

‘12 BS Lyndsey M. Pierson, PhD, is an assistant professor of biology in the School of Sciences at Christian Brothers University in Memphis, TN. ‘12 BS Matt D. Scarano became the new corporate accounting manager at Park Place Technologies in Cleveland, OH. He joined the firm after spending six years as manager at PwC.

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‘12 Nick S. Tyler, PhD, is a postdoctoral researcher for the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC) in Berkeley, CA. He recently completed his doctoral candidacy at the University of South Carolina.

‘13 BS Nicholas Davern is an IT technology initiatives analyst for Boyd Gaming in Las Vegas, NV. He was an IT business analyst for the same company.

‘13 MS Cassandra A. (Radley) Davis was promoted from vice president of ambulatory services and population health to senior vice president of operations at Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) Corporation. She joined ECMC in 2008 and most recently, was instrumental in the facility’s Covid-19 response, demonstrating strong leadership to and support of caregivers.

‘13 BA Matthew R. Faulkner was promoted from compliance analyst to senior analyst for regulatory compliance at NRG Energy. He has been with the company for 10 years.

CANISIUS COLLEGE M AGA ZINE SUMME R 2022

‘15 MS Heather M. King is a licensed professional clinical counselor for King Counseling LLC in Toledo, OH. She has been with the agency since 2019 and served as a professional counselor.

‘15 MS Dan Liburd is the new director of sport science at EXOS, a wellness and fitness firm for elite athletes, in Phoenix, AZ. He previously was the strength and conditioning coach for the Brooklyn Netswas.

‘13 MS Shawn M. O'Donoghue is a new history teacher at Nichols High School in Buffalo. He has been working at the school since 2013 and most recently served as assistant to the directors of athletics.

‘15 BA Joseph F. Rutigliano is the new assistant director of operations at St. John’s University in Queens, NY. He was the assistant video coordinator for the University of Louisville Athletics Department.

‘13 MS Fran C. Roach was promoted from senior manager of enterprise operations to director of student engagement at 2U, an online learning platform based in Denver, CO.

‘15 MS Collin J. Stout, PhD, is a senior academic advisor for neuroscience and cognitive science at the University of Arizona. He joined the university in 2019 and most recently served as coordinator of undergraduate research and retention in the College of Science.

‘13 MBA Daniel B. Weinstein was appointed vice president of enterprise strategy at Highmark Health. He was senior director of corporate strategy for HealthNow New York Inc. ‘14 BA Andrew J. Kruse was promoted from associate director to director of business operations and residential services at UCP of Greater Cleveland.

‘14 BS Macy (Madden) Krishnamoorthy, PhD, is an adjunct professor at Meredith College in Raleigh, NC. She is an instructor in the Biological Sciences Department and teaches environmental science, and human anatomy and physiology labs.

‘14 BA Aidan M. Ryan was promoted from vice president to senior vice president for U.S. Crisis and Risk at Edelman, a global communications firm.

‘14 BA Alexander J. Vandenbergh, a supervisor for assurance services at Dopkins & Company LLP, was elected to the Board of Directors for Mental Health Advocates of Western New York.

‘14 BA Dakotah L. Walsh joined the advertising agency Crowley Webb as a data analyst. Prior to this, she was a junior processor for Supreme Lending.

‘15 MS Chrissy Case was promoted from customer account manager to technical success manager at ISI, which is headquartered in Chicago, IL. ‘15 BS Elizabeth A. Fuhrmann is a new brand copywriter at Penn State University. She previously worked as a contributing writer and photographer for the online publication Qween City.

‘16 BS Raechel M. (Crosby) Argento was promoted from clinical project associate to clinical trials management associate in the oncology area of Gilead Sciences in Seattle, WA. ‘16 BA John T. Bassanello is a new interior designer for CPL, an architecture, engineering and planning firm in Buffalo. He most recently held a similar position at NORR in Philadelphia, PA. ‘16 MS Brian T. Dansa joined the public accounting firm of Dansa D’Arata Soucia LLP as a new tax manager.

He previously worked as a supervisor at Dobkins & Company LLP. ‘16 MS Jason R. Francey is the new director of student engagement for the Division of Student Affairs at Canisius College. Francey provides inclusive campus programming to support students’ academic and social development and the mission of the college. Francey was previously assistant director for college engagement at Utica University.

‘16 MS Brandon Lewis was appointed academic advisor in the School of Public Health and Human Biology at the University at Albany. He joined the institution in 2018 and most recently worked as an instructor for the university’s First Year Experience Program.

‘16 BS Melanie Nguyen joined the biotechnology research firm of Seagen in Seattle, WA, where she is a marketing fellow.

‘16 BS Michael C. Perrino is the new assistant men’s lacrosse coach at St. John Fisher College in Rochester.

He previously was a key leader for Lululemon in Columbus, OH.

‘19 MBA Alessandra E. Pelitera, a mortgage processor for Navy Federal Credit Union, joined the Pensacola Blue Wahoos as a seasonal retail associate.

‘17 MS Kelly Mandell-Klumpp, a senior analyst at Brisbane Consulting Group LLC, completed the requirements to practice as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) fulfilling the exam, license and practice eligibility.

‘19 BS, MBA ‘20 Cameron T. Rosenecker joined the Brisbane Consulting Group LLC as a senior business valuation analyst.

‘17 BS Morgan L. (Williams) Saidian became a full-time zoo keeper at Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo, where she works with the elephant and hoofstock team. She also serves on the zoo’s animal enrichment committee.

‘17 BS Joshua E. Sikorski is the new assistant athletic trainer at St. Bonaventure University. He previously held the same position at Flagler College in St. Augustine, FL. ‘18 MSA Haley Clark is a new recruiter for Bloomfield & Company in Washington, DC. She was a staffing manager at Randstad USA in Franklin, TN.

‘19 MSEd Benjamin Suits Baer was promoted from accessibility specialist to assistant director of the Student Accessibility Center at Loyola University Chicago, IL.

‘20 BS Noah J. Cliff was promoted from sales assistant to sales communications coordinator at Uniland Development Company. In his new role, Cliff maintains all sales, leasing and data activity, in addition to providing support to account executives for clients and tenants.

‘20 BA Amanda Melendez is a new administrative associate at Sanderson Wealth Management.

‘20 MS Carnita C. (Hill) Melvin joined the Niskayuna Central School District in Albany, as a full-time school counselor. She previously held a similar position at Catapult Learning.

‘18 MSEd Desmond R. Rudd joined John Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD, as a lecturer and clinical faculty member.

He also began work as director of equity and engagement at Breakthrough Montessori Public Charter School in Washington D.C. Rudd was previously an adjunct professor at American University.

‘20 BS ‘21 MS Tucker Weppner is a new financial analyst at Sanderson Wealth Management.

‘18 MBA John J. Sullivan is a new financial representative at NorthWestern Mutual in Cheektowaga.

He also serves as a pastor for New Cedar Grove Life Changing Church.

‘18 MBA Nicholas C. Wojtkiewicz is a new accountant for Buffalo’s Charter School for Applied Technologies. He was an accountant for National Fuel Gas Company.

‘19 MBA Martin Glose was promoted from lead distribution planning and asset management engineer to engineering manager at National Grid in Buffalo. He joined the company in 2017.

Erica Evans ’18 BS, Physical, Health Education

2020s

‘18 MBA Jeffrey C. Magavern Jr. was promoted from revenue management analyst to business partner for marketing at FIFCO USA, a brewing company in Rochester, NY. He joined the company in 2018.

‘18 Matthew T. Simmerly was promoted from senior pay per click (PPC) manager to director of sales business analytics at Trademark Global LLC in Lorain, OH. He’s been with the company since 2018.

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‘20 BS Clare Niver was promoted from audit staff accountant to audit senior accountant at Lumsden McCormick CPA.

‘21 MS Brianna M. Dempsey was appointed student success coach at Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY. She previously worked as a graduate assistant for the Dr. George E. Schreiner ‘43 Pre-medical Center at Canisius College.

Career Highlight: Erica Evans was one of 20 players named to Team Canada for the 2022 World Lacrosse Women’s World Cup in Towson, MD. This was the midfielder’s second trip to the World Lacrosse Championship. Evans was the leading goal scorer at the 2017 World Lacrosse Women’s World Cup. Career Notes: Evans is a supply teacher with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board in Ontario, Canada. She also coaches elite teenage girls with several lacrosse clubs near Peterborough, Canada.

Canisius Magazine welcomes photos!

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.

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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 the college.

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Weddings

IN MEMORIAM Canisius College lost one of its most preeminent graduates on March 9 with the passing of Donald P. Pinkel ’47, MD. A pioneering pediatric oncologist, Pinkel developed the first drug treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children, which transformed the disease from a virtual death sentence to one that almost every young patient now survives.

Madison Rainey ’18 and Eric Almeter February 19, 2022*

Pinkel earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Canisius and his doctor of medicine from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Soon after, he began his pediatric research in Buffalo. Several medications were available then that could push ALL into remission but inevitably, the cancer returned.

Julie M. Roessler ’14, MS ’16 and Michael Boyce November 27, 2021 Ashley M. Darrow ’15 and Dylan J. Moscato ’15, MBA ’16 July 23, 2021*

“At that time (1950s), the idea was to try to prolong life in comfort,” Pinkel recalled in a 2016 Smithsonian Magazine article. “No one thought you were going to ‘cure’ anybody. That was almost a forbidden word.”

Martin Glose MBA ’19 and Erica Kane July 10, 2021

But Pinkel believed he could change the course of the disease and in 1962, he left his position as head of pediatrics at Roswell Park to become chief executive medical director – and the first employee – of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. His unyielding hope to cure childhood leukemia led to the research and experimentation of what Pinkel called Total Therapy: a treatment that combined chemotherapy and radiation to drive the disease into remission. Within eight years, survival rates increased to 50 percent. A decade later, the survival rate was 80 percent. Today, it is 94 percent.

Allison Jennings ’19 and Patrick Judge ’19, MBA ’20 June 12, 2021 *Indicates married in Christ the King Chapel

Pinkel left St. Jude Hospital in 1973 to work at children’s hospitals in Wisconsin, California, Pennsylvania and Texas. He retired in 1994 and moved to San Luis Obispo, CA. Paige E. Burkard ’15, MBAA ’16 and Joseph A. Fedele ’14, MS ’15 October 16, 2021*

Andy T. Anselmo ’45 March 20, 2022

Charles R. Biondolillo ’60 February 5, 2022

Joel M. Johnson ’70 December 23, 2021

Walter L. Kaczor ’86 February 10, 2022

James J. Myers ’48 June 17, 2021

Donald L. Garigen ’60 January 8, 2021

Daniel J. Rine ’70 February 7, 2022

Todd J. Potter ’86 March 17, 2022

Barbara J. (Harrington) Duggan MSEd ’51 September 27, 2021

John A. Bargnesi MSEd ’62 February 22, 2022

Gary J. Starck ’70 January 26, 2022

David C. Zimmerman ’87 March 31, 2022

James F. Forton ’51 February 28, 2022

John C. Jablonski ’62 February 10, 2022

John S. Sperrazza ’71 December 14, 2021

Romeo M. McKinney MS ’88 December 16, 2021

Francis P. Reap Jr. ’51 March 10, 2022

Robert L. Infantino ’62, MS ’68, EdD October 23, 2021

Robert S. Ciepiela ’72 January 18, 2022

John F. Rooney Jr. ’89, MS ’92 January 20, 2022

Thomas P. Glynn ’52 March 31, 2022

Regina E. Gier MSEd ’54, MA ’63, April 18, 2021

Rita (Pomarzynski) Decsi MS ’72 March 21, 2022

Albert J. Attea ’90 February 6, 2022

Hugh H. Higgins Jr. ’52 February 22, 2022

Antons Jubulis ’63 March 31, 2022

Marguerite D. (Deyaeger) Kermis ’72, PhD March 17, 2022

Karl P. Adler Jr. ’91 March 12, 2022

Richard L. Uschold ’53, PhD March 27, 2022

Patricia (Hogan) Schnirel MSEd ’63 December 28, 2021

Sr. Laurenita Zogby MSEd ’73 January 28, 2022

James P. Rasmussen MSEd ’96 January 30, 2022

Harvey A. Wenz ’53 November 26, 2021

Daniel C. Verdi ’63 January 7, 2022

Madonna M. Priore ’74, MS ’87 February 2, 2022

Paul M. Sweeney ’97 February 15, 2022

Donald G. Dunn ’54 January 12, 2022

James H. Watz ’63 March 22, 2022

Charlene Youknut ’74, MS ’79 October 1, 2021

Christopher J. Duquin ’98 December 22, 2021

Gerald J. O’Reilly ’54 November 7, 2021

Charles M. Flynn ’64 November 3, 2021

Thomas A. Zabawa MSEd ’74 January 26, 2022

Joseph R. Hoestermann MBA ’98 January 11, 2022

Dorothy M. Crowe ’56 December 14, 2021

Vincent L. Scamurra ’64 January 2, 2022

Samuel J. Bumbalo ’76 February 15, 2022

Daniel E. Schroeter ’98 March 13, 2022

Alicia Kolacki ’14 and Collin Lynch ’12, a daughter, Gemma, born February 24, 2022

Vincent D. Lorigo ’57 February 16, 2022

Richard M. Slattery ’64 January 14, 2022

Rev. Bishop Donald Trautman HON ’77 February 26, 2022

Adam Joon MBA ’03 December 27, 2021

Kate (LaPort) Lezinski ’07 and Stephen Lezinski, a daughter, Sloane, born December 25, 2021

William W. Orrange ’57 February 6, 2022

Paul A. Young MSEd ’64, PhD January 22, 2022

Susan L. Wingeier MS ’77 January 27, 2022

Eric R. DuVall ’04 February 12, 2022

Richard S. Trzaska ’57 February 14, 2022

Craig J. Costanzo ’67 March 9, 2022

David W. Collins ’79 January 30, 2022

Joel R. Soloman ’06 January 18, 2022

Charles M. Basil Jr. ’58, MS ’65 January 28, 2022

Richard T. Lee ’67 February 13, 2022

Edward M. Boyczuk ’80 December 15, 2021

Keith Cahill ’15 December 7, 2021

Daniel W. Sullivan ’58, MBA ’83 March 29, 2022

John J. Kubisty MSEd ’68 March 17, 2022

James P. Gallagher ’83 March 10, 2022

Shirley J. Basil HON ’16 January 16, 2022

Paul A. Barone ’59 December 27, 2021

E. Michael Semple ’69 December 17, 2021

Linda J. Krathaus ’84, MS ’85 February 11, 2022

Rickey L. Hoeft ’16 January 3, 2022

Richard P. Becht ’60 March 25, 2022

William J. Faulhaber ’70 March 23, 2022

Laurie A. Fabi ’85 January 26, 2022

Catelynn C. Fleming MS ’17 January 19, 2022

Photo: Emily Watkins THIS ISSUE'S FEATURED BABY GRIFF

baby griffs

Samuel Mark born January 15, 2022 to Sarah L. (Jay) DeWald ’04 and Paul DeWald

Katie (Rampino) Briggs ’07 and Matthew Briggs, a son, Aden James, born November 20, 2021 Jenna M. (Gervase) Carman ’06, MSEd ’10 and James Carman, a daughter, Cecelia Damaris, born January 3, 2022 Lisa A. (Buchholz) Copece ’09 and Brandon Copece, a son, Luca Joseph, born September 10, 2021

Carol L. (Adornetto) DeVincentis ’09 and Anthony Joseph DeVincentis, a son, Anthony Francis, born December 16, 2021 Hannah M. English ’10 and Spencer Marcellus, a daughter, Libby Scout, born March 10, 2022 William P. Freeman ’13 and Jovita Rose Freeman, a daughter, Amelia Louise, born June 25, 2021

Kimberly Majewski ’08 and Donald Bock, a son, Caleb Bruce, born October 28, 2021 Ashley (Friedly) Paddock ’11, MBAA ’12 and William Paddock ’10, MSEd ’13, a daughter, Alexis Anne, born January 3, 2022

Kaitlin E. (Vienne) Sliverberg ’13 and Zachary D. Silverberg ’12, a daughter, Siobhán Ava, born January 22, 2022 Therese E. (Taylor) Thibault ’09 and James Thibault, a daughter, Colette Taylor, born October 9, 2021

Karen Stacy ’12, a daughter, Evelyn, born March 10, 2022 Diana (Agostini) Vulaj ’09 and Brandon Vulaj ’10, a son, Leonardo James, born December 16, 2021 24

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Pinkel was 95 at the time of his passing.

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Social Studies

Tán Ho ’ 14 co-founds social productivity platform to provide educational access for students worldwide

Story: Martin J. Haumesser Photo: Mattea LinAe

Canisius gave me the skills and confidence to think about myself differently.

My experiences at the college inform the work I do today to change the way we think about students and education.

Before Tán Ho ’14 was named to Forbes magazine’s 30 Under 30 list, he was homeless for a time and staying with friends while he looked for a job. His journey from sleeping on couches to creating an international social learning platform is a lesson in finding one’s passion.

Ho says he has found his passion as co-founder and chief operating officer of Fiveable, an innovative platform for high school students to learn and work together in online study rooms. Students from more than 150 countries are using Fiveable to connect through group chat, editable task lists and video streaming to learn about every topic from art history to political organizing.

“We started out as a study platform to help high school students prepare for AP classes and college admissions tests – in fact, the name is derived from the number five, the highest score a student can get on an AP exam,” Ho explains. “Today, we have a completely different model. Fiveable is designed for students, with students to democratize learning and provide equal opportunities for all to reach their potentials.”

With responsibilities that include design, marketing, product development and student engagement, Ho has helped Fiveable grow in just a couple of years to an empowering social learning platform that supports more than four million students worldwide.

That meteoric rise in success caught Forbes magazine’s attention in 2022 when they named Ho to its annual 30 Under 30 list in the education category. Ho says there were several forks in the road in getting to this point.

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A native of Utica, NY, Ho came to Canisius College initially to study pre-med, encouraged by his mother, a single parent and Vietnamese immigrant. While he wanted to do something that helped people, Ho soon found medicine wasn’t his passion. His grades slipped, causing him to lose a scholarship. On the advice of his advisor, he changed his major to digital media arts and things began to click. Ho became president of the school’s Advertising Club and won an award for his involvement in the student senate.

Ho held a few different marketing-related jobs after graduation but found himself struggling with depression and anxiety related to his coming out as gay. His situation started to change, however, after a chance online meeting with Fiveable co-founder and chief executive officer Amanda DoAmaral. The former teacher was seeking to hire the first employee at her just launched online company, which offered AP test support. DoAmaral couldn’t afford to pay a salary so she instead offered room and board.

The opportunity to live and work in a shared space while building something meaningful was too good for the then-homeless Ho to turn down. He accepted the position and the rest, as they say, is history. Or biology, English or any of the thousands of study groups on the platform.

“Canisius gave me the skills and confidence to think about myself differently,” he explains. “My experiences at the college inform the work I do today to change the way we think about students and education.”

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