“Taking
Flight
2020”
How Niagara University Will Compete in a Declining and Hyper-Competitive ing Higher Education Market “Takh Flig0t” 202
A LITTLE PASSION AND A Lot of grit
7 PAGE 18
Vol. 35 issue 1
Niagara
responds to the challenges of
COVID-19
Vol. 35, issue 1
The Niagara University Eagle is published by the Office of Institutional Advancement. Please send correspondence to: Lisa McMahon, M.A.’09, Editor Niagara University, N.Y., 14109 716.286.8747 / lmcmahon@niagara.edu Editor - Lisa McMahon, M.A.’09 Design - Troy Frymire
Inside this issue
7 8 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 1 2 18 20
FEATURES
A LITTLE PASSION & A LOT OF GRIT
PASSION & PATRONAGE
Benefit Generations of Niagara University Students
Social Work Senior Gets Career Advice & More
NIAGARA UNIVERSITY continues Vision to Become the Premier Binational University in Ontario
“Taking Flight 2020” GAME ON Purple Eagles Soar UNDER HEAD COACH GREG PAULUS
Students Get HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE with ESPN
Lisa Kurbiel, ’89
An Influencer for Social Good
DEPARTMENTS
Opening Remarks On the Ridge News From the Nest Catching Up
Founded by the Vincentian Community in 1856, Niagara University is a private liberal arts university with a strong, values-based Catholic tradition. Its four academic divisions include the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Education, and Hospitality and Tourism Management. The university also maintains an Academic Exploration Program that provides a learning community for students who are undecided about their major.
OPENING REMARKS
Dear Alumni and Friends,
I
hope this finds you and your families physically and emotionally well. The spreading of the coronavirus and events of the past weeks have presented all of us with unique challenges. As we look to the future, may we remember the past. The patron of our university, St. Vincent de Paul, toward the end of his life in 17th century France, was gifted with the title Honorary Secretary of State. It was recognition of St. Vincent’s great gift of organizing meaningful, impactful, and sustainable charity toward victims of natural disasters. You would be very proud of the efforts of our students, faculty, administrators, and staff, as current-day bearers of St. Vincent’s gift. We will continue to update you on all our efforts. You are remembered daily in our prayers and Masses. As always, I am pleased to keep you up to date on some of the new and exciting initiatives happening at Niagara. As you will find in this edition of the Eagle, the university’s leadership, both our trustees and senior administrators, are working hard to ensure the future success of our beloved institution by creating innovative solutions to address the competitive and crowded marketplace of higher education. Thinking differently, rather than just staying the course, will differentiate Niagara University. For example, “Taking Flight 2020” is a comprehensive strategic plan to elevate the stature of Niagara University. It enables us to build on our legacy academic programs— those that have stood the test of time and have high employment rates—while developing new programs that offer immediate paths to gainful employment. Led by Dr. Tim Ireland, our provost, and Robert Murphy, our executive vice president for enrollment and dean of admissions, this initiative combines the academic excellence Niagara is known for with a career pipeline that will lead to professional success for our students. Another exciting venture is the addition of several new academic programs at our Vaughan, Ontario, location. Expanding our footprint there strengthens our position as the premier binational university in Ontario and aligns with our strategic plan for Niagara’s future.
Rev. James J. Maher, C.M.
These are just some of the ways we are creating attractive and exciting opportunities for future generations of Niagara students and enhancing our new student recruitment efforts. Thank you always for your generosity and support of our Vincentian mission.
With every good wish,
Rev. James J. Maher, C.M. President
EAGLE/SPRING 2020
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ON THE RIDGE Niagara Global Tourism Institute’s TReC Joins the Business Incubator Association of New York State, Inc. Niagara University’s Niagara Global Tourism Institute announced the affiliation of its emerging TReC incubator with the Business Incubator Association of New York State, Inc. TReC, which is focused on tourism-technology, joins more than 50 dues-paying organizational members of the BIA/NYS that operate more than 90 distinct incubator facilities and virtual business incubation programs statewide. This represents the majority of the active business incubators in New York state and spans general purpose, technology, microenterprise, and wet-lab bioscience facilities. Members include incubators associated with both public and private universities, regional nonprofit economic development organizations, and for-profit incubators. “We couldn’t be more pleased to be part of the Business Incubator Association of New York State. Our affiliation with the incubator association opens up Niagara County and its entrepreneurs to a host of resources not previously available to our area,” said Patrick Whalen, director of the NGTI. “This is especially important for the city of Niagara Falls as the unprecedented overhaul of its downtown is setting the stage for a local economic renaissance.”
Entrepreneur Sarah Battaglia, founder of Olive Ridley Paints; Sen. Rob Ortt; the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M.., Niagara University president; Anthony Vilardo, president of USA Niagara Development Corp.; and Paul Dyster, mayor of the city of Niagara Falls, cut the ribbon on TReC, a new co-working incubation space in downtown Niagara Falls operated by Niagara University’s Niagara Global Tourism Institute.
TReC, located at 616 Niagara St. in Niagara Falls, is a co-working incubation space with a mission to help would-be entrepreneurs formulate ideas and launch businesses. Operated by the Niagara Global Tourism Institute, and led by Whalen and assistant director Roscoe Naguit, ’08, TReC anchors a transformational live-work-play redevelopment of historic buildings in Niagara Falls, N.Y. A ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially launch the incubator was held on Nov. 4, 2019.
TReC is a unique asset in WNY, designed to magnify the region’s existing momentum in the entrepreneurial and tourism fields. It works directly with entrepreneurs starting a new company from conceptualization to their eventual establishment in the community, and provides startup companies with a full suite of services, including business plan development and implementation, mentoring, and guidance with legal and financial matters.
Niagara’s Programs Ranked Among Best Niagara University’s online programs in education were ranked among the top five in New York state by U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in education rankings. Niagara was the only institution of higher education from Western New York to appear on the list of “Best Online Master’s in Education Programs,” which ranked the schools based on student-instructor access, graduation rates, and instructor credentials, in addition to the robust career and financial support offered. Niagara’s online master’s degree program in special education was also ranked among the top in the nation for a third year in a row, according to Online Schools Report. At number 14, Niagara was the only Western New York
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institution included on the list, and the only one located in New York state. Six data points were analyzed—three that focus on the quality of the school, and three that focus on the quality of the individual program—to prioritize the school’s ability to deliver an online education comparable to an on-campus degree. And Niagara University’s celebrated theatre program was among those listed as one of the “Top College Theatre Programs You Might Not Know, but Should” by professional acting and college audition coach Michelle J. Evans. Evans, the owner of MJE Acting Studio, detailed the theatre programs of 10 schools in the North in the Feb. 19, 2020, edition of PerformerStuff.com, an online community created for and powered by performers,
educators, and entertainment industry professionals. The opportunity for theatre students to receive one-on-one mentorship with faculty, which provides extra confidence as they prepare for careers in the entertainment industry; the fact that NU is one of the oldest professional theatre training programs in the region; the rigorous theatrical and liberal arts education and guidance students receive; and the London summer study-abroad program earned Niagara a place on Evans’ list. Evans also cited the fact that Niagara University alumni “can be found both on and off the stage and screen” and noted that Carmen Ruby Floyd, ’00; Brandon Sierra, ’04; Armand Schultz, ’81; and Ryan Murphy, ’04, “have all used the skills they learned at NU to fuel their successful careers.”
ON THE RIDGE Local High School Students Have Sacred Conversations at Niagara University
Eleven high school students were recognized at the Ostapenko Center’s youth, race, and equality conference March 3 for their advocacy of social justice. They are pictured with Noah LaClair, a senior social work major who is interning with the center.
Approximately 200 students from eight high schools throughout Western New York gathered on the Niagara University campus March 3, 2020, to participate in “Sacred Conversations,” the third annual youth, race, and equality conference hosted by the university’s Rose Bente Lee Ostapenko Center for Race, Equality, and Mission. The conference gave the participating students opportunities to address local and national issues of race and engage in dialogue about race and equity, and helped them realize the potential they have to create change through advocacy and collective action. The students were welcomed by members of the Ostapenko Center and the Rev. Aidan Rooney, C.M., Niagara’s vice president for mission
integration, before breaking out into workshops that discussed the role race plays in future goalsetting, how race sometimes creates an unequal playing field, and how justice movements can help overcome marginalization and oppression in our communities. Workshops were led by Niagara University students. Following the breakout sessions, the students enjoyed lunch in the Russell J. Salvatore Dining Commons and had opportunities to share their reflections of the day during two student panels where participants discussed their personal efforts to advocate for change in their schools and the challenges they faced in doing so. They also heard from 15-year-old Ilyas Khan of City Honors School, founder of the Western New
York Youth Climate Council and organizer of the inaugural Buffalo Youth Climate Strike, which brought some 40 students to Buffalo City Hall on March 15, 2019, to stand in solidarity with an estimated 1.4 million from more than 120 countries around the world in the International Youth Climate Strike. An awards ceremony, during which 11 students, chosen by their schools, were recognized for their efforts as social changeagents, remarks by Ostapenko scholar Carmen Timmons and Niagara provost Dr. Timothy Ireland, and a closing activity that reinforced the lessons learned during the day rounded out the event.
Niagara University First Responder Disability Awareness Training Receives Funding for Training in Amherst Niagara University’s First Responder Disability Awareness Training (NUFRDAT) program has received $15,000 funding to provide training for the Town of Amherst, N.Y. The funding will support education for first responders and help ensure proper, proactive response to include Americans with Disabilities Act compliance. NUFRDAT’s nationally recognized curriculum is customized for each first responder discipline: emergency management, firefighters, 911 operators/dispatchers, emergency medical services, and law enforcement. Established in 2010 and created in cooperation with all major first responder associations, councils and state
offices, the training is designed to give first responders the knowledge necessary to best serve and respond to individuals with disabilities. It is the only program in the nation that provides fully comprehensive training for first responders on how to respond to emergencies involving individuals with disabilities, including mental health issues. “Everyone needs disability awareness training,” said David V. Whalen, project director of the university’s First Responder Disability Awareness Training. “However, first responders have found themselves in challenging scenarios that can be addressed with this specialized training.”
New York, South Dakota, and Missouri have contracted NUFRDAT’s full training program, while Virginia, New Jersey, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Arkansas have contracted it in various capacities. The Fire Department of the city of New York, the largest in the United States and universally recognized as the world’s busiest and most highly skilled emergency response agency, has also contracted NUFRDAT for training. In 2014, the program received the Forging Pathways Award from the New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council.
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ON THE RIDGE Early College/Smart Scholars Visit the Niagara University Campus Twenty-five 10th grade students from Niagara Falls High School spent the day on the Niagara University campus in February as part of the Early College/Smart Scholars Program, a partnership between Niagara’s Rev. Joseph L. Levesque Institute for Civic Engagement and the Niagara Falls City School District to engage high school students in college/career exploration. In addition to identifying possible college and career opportunities based on their interests and values, the students toured the campus and had lunch at the Russell J. Salvatore Dining Commons. A highlight of the day was meeting with the women’s basketball team. The visiting students learned basketball techniques and skills and heard from the players about what it takes to be a student-athlete, how they prepared to participate in collegiate sports during their time in high school, and the importance of good grades.
Dr. Elizabeth Yarussi, literacy outreach/TESOL clinician for the Levesque Institute, serves as the Early College/Smart Scholars Program liaison.
opportunities and support services in order to achieve their career goals. Approximately 100 students participate annually in the four-year program, which begins in ninth grade. Cohorts of Funded by the New York State Education 25 students visit the Niagara University campus Department—Bill and Melinda Gates Foundafour times each year, learning about academic tion, the Early College/Smart Scholars program majors, attending sporting events, finding out gives first-generation college students academic about career opportunities, and participating in a civic engagement camp. Beginning in their junior year, participants can obtain between 24-30 tuition-free college credits from Niagara University, the equivalent of one full-time Early College/Smart Scholar participants from Niagara Falls High School enjoyed learning basketball techniques from Niagara University’s women’s basketball team. academic year.
NU Students Selected to Learn Fundamentals of Private Label Business from Key Industry Players Six Niagara University marketing students were selected to participate in the Private Label Manufacturers Association University Outreach Student Program, held Nov. 16-19, 2019, in conjunction with the PLMA’s annual Private Label Trade Show. The students, who are studying food and consumer-packaged goods marketing, were accompanied by Dr. Peggy Choong, professor of marketing, who presented on teamwork and leadership during the event.
The students were among 60 students chosen from colleges throughout the country to learn the fundamentals of the $160 billion store brands business through classes, tours, and mentorship. A highlight of the experience was the opportunity to connect one-on-one with manufacturers’ representatives, including those from Berry Global, Harris Tea, Upstate Niagara, Lactalis America, and Rosina Food Products, as well as with retail buyers from companies including Federated Group, Meijer, Price Chopper, and Wegmans.
“This experience brought to life all the things the students learned in their marketing and food marketing classes, and deepened their understanding of the industry and their discipline,” said Choong. “The opportunities for meaningful careers are rich in this industry, and students are now able to recognize career paths that they are interested in pursuing. The industry is growing at an impressive speed and is filled with good opportunities for young talent like our students.”
Niagara University students, accompanied by Dr. Peggy Choong, professor of marketing, attended the Women Impacting Storebrand Excellence luncheon during the PLMA trade show, where they networked with business professionals and heard from a guest speaker who discussed the importance of diversity in the private label industry.
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ON THE RIDGE Dr. Thomas Sheeran Elected Third Vice President of the NYS Magistrates
Thomas Sheeran
Dr. Thomas Sheeran, who celebrates the 50th anniversary on the faculty of Niagara University’s College of Education this year, was elected to the position of third vice president of the New York State Magistrate’s Association. The association represents more than 2,200 town and village judges in the 1,300 local courts across New York
state. Dr. Sheeran previously served as treasurer for the organization. For the past 28 years, Dr. Sheeran has served as the town justice in Lewiston, N.Y., and has also been a member of the Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics for the past 12 years.
on the Frontier Education Program, and the Discover Niagara Mobile Application to interpret the area’s rich history, connect visitors and residents to its unique landscape and heritage, create cultural tourism products, and foster stewardship through educational outreach programs for youth.
Kudos: Several Members of the NU Community Honored Several members of the NU community were recognized recently by community organizations for their support and dedication to their missions.
Deborah Curtis
Dana Radatz
Dr. Dana L. Radatz, assistant professor of criminology and criminal justice at Niagara University, received the Peggy Addoms Volunteer Service Award from Pinnacle Community Services in March. She has served as a research consultant for several agencies within Niagara County that work to end family violence, and organizes a domestic violence awareness event and Red Flag campaign each fall in partnership with Pinnacle Community Services and the university’s Castellani Art Museum. Currently, she is conducting research on the effectiveness of Pinnacle’s support group interventions in promoting the healing and empowerment of survivors for potential future grant funding opportunities for the program.
Dr. Deborah T. Curtis, vice president of Niagara University’s International Relations Office and the Brennan Center for Language, Culture and Leadership, and Sara Capen, executive director for the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area, received Community Leader Awards from The National Federation for Just Communities of WNY in February. Dr. Curtis has developed successful English and academic summer programs, conducted effective training programs in numerous countries on four continents, and led management development programs for executives and government officials from China, Thailand, and Vietnam. She also developed the Hospitality and Tourism Training Institute, a collaborative venture Niagara University formed with Catholic Charities of Buffalo, that offers career preparation and placement for unemployed refugees. Sara has spearheaded the development of National Heritage Area initiatives including the Discover Niagara Shuttle, the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, Fridays
Sara Capen
The Niagara Falls National Heritage Area was also among the honorees at the Niagara Beautification Commission’s Annual Awards Luncheon in October. The South End Housing Initiative, a collaborative effort spearheaded by Niagara University to revitalize the South End of Niagara Falls and reinvigorate Niagara Falls’ main economic corridor, was also honored at the luncheon for its signature event, “Rock the Block,” which brings hundreds of volunteers together to do minor home repairs, painting, landscaping, fencing, and general clean up in the South End of the city. Power City Eatery, owned by NU alumni Joseph Hotchkiss, ’14, and Kyle Bajor, ’13, was named “Member of the Year” for its efforts to enhance the streetscape around the business at the luncheon.
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ON THE RIDGE Four Community Leaders Honored at Niagara University President’s Dinner
Niagara University President’s Dinner honorees Laura Zaepfel (Caritas Medal), Paul E. O’Leary Jr., ’81 (Medal of Honor), Rev. Craig D. Pridgen (Legacy of Service Award), and Rev. Michael J. Carroll, C.M., ’73 (St. Vincent de Paul Award) with the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., Niagara University president (center).
Niagara University recognized the accomplishments of four individuals —while raising critical funds for student scholarships—during its 2019 President’s Dinner, which was held Nov. 15 at the Conference & Event Center Niagara Falls.
and for the university’s Rome campus, as well as executive vice president for student services. He was elected provincial superior for the Eastern Province of the Congregation of the Mission in 2008 and served in that post until 2017.
Nearly 500 Niagara University alumni, students, and friends attended the event, the proceeds of which directly benefit Niagara University’s scholarship programs. More than $300,300 was raised toward student scholarship assistance, making this the fifth year in a row that the $200,000 fundraising mark was surpassed.
Rev. Craig D. Pridgen, senior pastor of the Niagara Falls Experience of True Bethel and senior business vendor analyst for M&T Bank, received the Legacy of Service Award. Pastor Pridgen was instrumental in opening and managing the first-ever Subway restaurant franchise located in a church and in the oversight of a job readiness program that prepared inner-city youth for work. He is a member of the Niagara University Board of Trustees and currently serves on the boards of directors for Literacy New York, Buffalo-Niagara, Inc.; Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center; and The National Federation for Just Communities.
The following outstanding leaders were honored for their contributions in business and community life: Laura Zaepfel, vice president for corporate relations at Uniland Development Company, received the Caritas Medal. Zaepfel works to optimize the Western New York business climate and construct policies and procedures that will produce a diverse workforce and a sustainable economy in the region. In addition, she manages Uniland’s corporate philanthropy program, and works with and volunteers for community and business organizations that advocate for residents through social justice and diversity, health and wellness, education, and environmental programs. Zaepfel has provided leadership to organizations including Catholic Charities, Humanities New York, the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties, the National Federation of Just Communities, and the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. Rev. Michael J. Carroll, C.M., ’73, ’11 (Hon.), director of the Miraculous Medal Shrine in Philadelphia, Pa., and spiritual director of the Central Association of the Miraculous Medal, received the St. Vincent de Paul Award. In his current role, Father Carroll promotes devotion to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. Over the years, he had a number of assignments, including school minister at Archbishop Wood High School and 16 years at St. John’s University in Queens, N.Y., where he worked in campus ministry
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Paul E. O’Leary Jr., ’81, retired managing partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP, received the university’s Medal of Honor. Upon his graduation, O’Leary started his career with Touche Ross & Co (now Deloitte & Touche) in the Buffalo office. He was promoted to partner in 1995. In 2002, he was named Upstate New York managing partner, responsible for operations from Albany to Buffalo, and in 2014, he was named Denver professional practice director, a role in which he oversaw all functions of the audit practice. He also served as the firm’s national Blue Cross partner from 1996-2010, with responsibility for consistency in reporting for all Blue’s attest clients and maintaining the relationship with BCBSA. Throughout his career, O’Leary has served a broad set of clients in various industries, including the Buffalo Bills, the Buffalo Sabres, Delaware North, and Tops Markets. His community service includes membership on the Niagara University Board of Trustees, the Kaleida Health Board of Directors, and the Calamar Board of Advisors, and he is advance marshal of the Honda Classic. Michael Vitch, ’83, a member of Niagara University’s Board of Trustees, and his wife, Janice, served as the dinner’s chair couple.
By Lisa McMahon, M.A.’09
A litt le
a nd
a lot of
A little passion and a lot of grit. That’s what Audrey Dunn, a senior from Webster, N.Y., says it took to organize two successful fundraisers to support Camp Good Days and Special Times, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for those whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges. Her efforts were so successful, in fact, that 21 children will be able to go to camp this year, spending good days and special times with others who truly understand what they are going through.
That’s where the grit comes into play.
Dunn’s passion is obvious when she talks about what it was like to volunteer with the organization, first with its Kazoo Fest, during which she manned a table at the Eastview Mall and Marketplace in Rochester, N.Y., offering kazoos, candy cane pens, and other items for donations; and later, as a camp counselor for Teddi’s Team, a residential camping program for children ages 8-12 who have or have had cancer or sickle cell anemia.
“It was a project in itself,” Dunn said of launching the club, which was established in January 2018.
“It was just such a life-changing experience,” she said. “Their mission is to support families touched by cancer through programs throughout the year, free of charge. It is truly a beautiful mission that helps children and their families not feel alone in their fight against cancer. It’s just out of love and it’s based on volunteerism. You don’t come across something like that very often.” Dunn’s interest in helping those battling cancer stemmed from a childhood experience. When her best friend’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, Dunn and her mother became their support group. She saw firsthand how a cancer diagnosis affects both the individual and their loved ones, and says that she developed a fear of cancer.
Inspired by the Teddi Dance for Love, a 24-hour dance marathon hosted by students from St. John Fisher College since 1982 to benefit Camp Good Days, Dunn set out to organize a similar event at Niagara University. So she reached out to St. John Fisher to learn more about their dance marathon and simultaneously established Camp Courage Crew, a student club dedicated to hosting one at Niagara.
Three other students, seniors Emily DiMaria, Madison Gottstein, and Kelsey Schmidt, stepped up to take on leadership positions within the crew. Together, the four women took on the majority of the tasks necessary to host the inaugural six-hour event, from writing donation solicitation letters to decorating the gym. Their labor of love raised $6,950 for Camp Good Days in that first year. “There’s just no words to describe the feeling,” Dunn said when reflecting upon that success. “I brought the idea to campus, but it was really a university effort, and it definitely would not have gotten to this point without everyone’s input and support. “It’s not only the money that we’re focused on,” she continued. “It’s also the fact that people at Niagara and our community are connecting and resonating with our mission. The money that we raised was amazing, but it wouldn’t have
happened without that support, and that support comes from people believing in your cause.” In recognition of their efforts, Camp Courage Crew
was honored with the Commitment to Service Award at the third annual VolunteerWNY Why Not You? Awards ceremony, March 28, 2019.
Now in their second year, both the marathon and the crew have grown. The fundraiser, held in October 2019, raised $10,696, surpassing its goal of $10,000. More than 20 student clubs supported the
event by hosting donation stations, where they raised additional funds through smaller activities, and over
300 students, faculty, campers and their families, and members of the community attended the dance.
The crew now counts more than 50 students as members. They are developing a training program so members can become approved by Camp Good Days as volunteers for other programs sponsored by the organization. “We want our crew members to start getting that hands-on experience so they can really connect with the cause, and have each of them develop their own personal meaning to it,” Dunn explained. “It’s remarkable the amount of passion that this group already has, but I cannot imagine if each of them actually had the hands-on experience that I’ve had. It’s one thing to hear about and connect with a cause, but it’s another thing to actually experience it. That’s what we’re trying to do for our crew members, to actually meet the campers, see who they’re impacting.” Lisa Booz, WNY regional director at Camp Good Days and Special Times, said the organization is “beyond grateful” for the work Dunn is doing. “Her passion, energy, enthusiasm, and commitment are contagious.” Booz said. “This is easily seen by the large number of volunteers she has attracted and the depth upon which each is involved. Audrey is truly a remarkable woman. She took the initiative to not just start a fundraiser, but to start a legacy that will inspire and support hundreds for years to come.”
“I actually became petrified,” she said. “It became my top fear, and it still is. That’s how my passion for helping people going through this started. To be able to help children who are living through my nightmare, why wouldn’t I want to do that?” A high school friend whose father was associated with Camp Good Days introduced Dunn to the organization in 2016. After volunteering with the Kazoo Fest, she decided she wanted to become more involved with the campers and became a counselor the following summer. Her one-on-one interactions with the campers touched her heart, she said, and made her want to do more for the children and their families she had grown to love.
Camp Courage Crew members Emily DiMaria, Sarah Bauch, and Audrey Dunn organized two dance marathons to benefit Camp Good Days and Special Times.
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Gerald C. Mead Jr.’s
Passion & Patronage
By Lisa McMahon, M.A.’09
Will Benefit Generations of Niagara University Students
Gerald C. Mead Jr. considers himself an “informal student” of Niagara University. The university’s Castellani Art Museum figured prominently in his education as a young art student at Buffalo State College in the 1980s, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in both design and psychology. Mead would often visit the thennamed Buscaglia-Castellani Art Gallery when it was housed on the DeVeaux campus, and became familiar with the works of significant artists with a Western New York connection, including Charles Clough, Robert Longo, and Cindy Sherman. These artists became a mainstay of his own collection, which he began in 1987 with a small painting by primitive artist Rosario Provenza. The work was a gift from one of the docents at the Burchfield Penney Art Center at his alma mater, where Mead worked as a curator and educator for 18 years.
was a member of the faculty of the visual studies department at the University at Buffalo, where he earned his MFA.
A respected artist in his own right, who was inspired by his mother and took his first art lesson at the age of 12, Mead’s work—highly detailed, small-scale collages/assemblages—are in permanent collections in and beyond Western New York, including the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Burchfield Penney, the Castellani Art Museum, and the George Eastman Museum. They have also been in exhibitions in institutions across the country and around the globe, and were published in six collegiate textbooks. Mead’s work as an artist, educator, volunteer, and advocate for the arts has earned him major awards and grants from organizations including the Buffalo Alliance for Education, the National Federation for Just Communities of Western New York, Art Services Initiative of Western New York, the New York Foundation of the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts, the Kenan Center, Creative Quarterly: The Journal of Art and Design, and the Buffalo Society of Artists. He received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Erie Community College, where he received his associate’s degree, and is listed in Who’s Who in America.
Following in the Footsteps of Visionary Collectors
Charles E. Burchfield (American, 1893-1967), Untitled (June 1916), 1916, watercolor on paper, 12 x 9 inches. Promised gift of Gerald C. Mead Jr.
Gerald C. Mead Jr.
During his tenure at the Burchfield Penney, Mead organized more than 130 art, architecture, craft, and student exhibitions for the museum, including a nationally touring Roycroft Artisans exhibition, and edited numerous exhibition catalogs. Since 1998, he has taught in the art and design department at Buffalo State, and
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Niagara University
Mead currently organizes exhibitions for several local galleries as an independent curator. He frequently juries local and national art exhibitions, lectures on regional art, and writes for Buffalo Spree magazine. He is also a founding member of the Burchfield Penney Art Center Ambassadors, a surveyor for the American Association of Museums, an appointed member of the Buffalo Arts Commission, and serves on numerous local boards and public art committees. This fall, he was appointed to Niagara University’s board of advisors.
Since that first acquisition more than 30 years ago, Mead has added to his collection, which now includes more than 1,400 paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, photographs, crafts, and videos by over 1,000 artists who are connected with Western New York by either birth or residency. Mead’s selections are motivated by personal taste and scholarly interest, and range, historically, from an 1880 watercolor by George Merritt Clark, a founder of the Bohemian Sketch Club, to a self-portrait painting by Buffalo Society of Artists president Gary Wolfe created in 2019. “My intent was to build an encyclopedic collection focusing on significant artists affiliated with organizations such as the Buffalo Society of Artists, Patteran Society, Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, CEPA Gallery, Big Orbit Gallery, or who were educators and/or alumni of
the Art Institute of Buffalo, University at Buffalo, or SUNY Buffalo State,” he said. “As a young collector, I was inspired by the passion and zeal of lifelong collectors/philanthropists and museum namesakes in the region, including Armand and Eleanor Castellani, Seymour Knox Jr., and Charles Rand Penney.” As a private collector, Mead recognizes the important role he can play by sharing his works to make museum-quality art accessible to faculty, students, and the general public where it was previously unavailable. In addition to those which he displays in his Buffalo, N.Y., home, Mead loans and donates works to area galleries and public venues across the region, including the Castellani Art Museum. “I realized that there is a higher purpose to private collecting and that is sharing one’s collection,” he said. “What I am doing in a sense echoes what public institutions do as their mission— organizing exhibitions of artwork they collect, thus sharing it with the public.” Over the years, Mead has donated artwork from his collection for display at the Castellani Art Museum and for auction at the CAM’s annual galas, and lent numerous works to the CAM for a variety of exhibitions, including one in 2011 titled “Public/Private: Pairings with Works from the Gerald Mead Collection,” which matched works by 40 artists in his collection with works by the same artists in the CAM’s collection and included educational, celebratory, and fundraising events. One of his own artworks was acquired by the museum in 2002, and a 15-year retrospective of his work was featured in 2004 as part of the museum’s “TopSpin” series highlighting local artists. In addition to his artwork, Mead has also shared his knowledge of art and collecting with the CAM’s patrons. He has lectured at numerous “Meet Me at the CAM” events, moderated a panel discussion on collecting art, and led collage workshops for the museum’s summer camp program. In 2013, he began to serve as a co-curator for the museum’s “Western New York Collects” series of exhibitions, which bring together works in public and private collections. He has also made the CAM’s collection available beyond Monteagle Ridge as a guest curator for the Kenan Center in Lockport and the University at Buffalo Anderson Gallery, and has written about CAM exhibitions for local publications such as Artvoice.
Setting His Own Example for Others to Follow In appreciation for his longstanding relationship with the Castellani Art Museum and the inspiration provided by its founders, Armand and Eleanor Castellani, Mead has made a generous donation of 58 works in all media from his
Cindy Sherman (American, born 1954), Untitled (Under the WTC), 1980/2001, gelatin silver print, 80/100, 7-1/2 x 5-9/16 in. Promised gift of Gerald C. Mead Jr.
collection. The works, by 46 nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, were carefully selected with the intent of expanding the CAM’s collection in two significant ways: adding works by artists who are not currently represented by the museum, such as Laylah Ali, Cory Arcangel, Harvey Breverman, Philip Burke, and Wendell Castle; as well as works by artists in the CAM’s collection, such as Charles Burchfield, Allan D’Arcangelo, Nancy Dwyer, Les Krims, and Robert Longo, that broaden the range and depth of their careers through earlier or later works or work in a different media. “My art collecting over the years has been rooted in research and scholarship,” Mead explained, “so, accordingly, the works that I am donating to the Castellani Art Museum represent iconic, emblematic, and frequently seminal works by the artists that are echoed by related works in regional, national, and international museum collections.” Mead hopes his gift will continue the museum’s mission as an academic resource, art museum, and cultural center for Western New York while filling in gaps in the collection. “As a lifelong art educator, it is important to me to know that some of my most treasured artworks will be utilized for teaching and educational purposes which, of course, advances the mission of the university,” he said. “It makes it a doubly appropriate choice to have the works go to the Castellani.”
Philip Burke (American, born 1956), Henry Kissinger, c. 1987, oil on canvas, 23 x 21 in. Promised gift of Gerald C. Mead Jr.
While Mead’s gift started with the artwork, further discussion led him to support the museum in two other important ways. He has established the Gerald C. Mead Jr. Endowed Scholarship in Art History with Museum Studies, and he was instrumental in creating a planned giving society for the museum— the Castellani Art Museum Legacy Society. “I hope my gift sets an example for others to follow,” he said. “I want to encourage fellow collectors to consider the Castellani as a place where important works from their collection will be welcomed, utilized, and have a permanent home and a noble purpose.” Mead will become an “official” alumnus of Niagara University when he receives an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree at commencement, something he says both strengthens his commitment to the university and gives him a sense of pride. “Through this whole process, I’ve learned so much more about the university as a whole, and the culture of the university. I’ve been very impressed by what I’ve seen about the mission and become more cognizant of what I can do to be—albeit a small—part of advancing that mission,” he said. “When it comes down to it, all anybody wants to do is to make an impact. I’m honored and pleased to do that.”
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Social Work Senior Gets Career Advice & More,
By Lisa McMahon, M.A.’09
Thanks to the Niagara Alumni Network
“
W
hen Meghan Lippa, a senior social work major from Norwich, N.Y., began her internship in the health and wellness department at the Food Bank of South Jersey, she knew it would be an opportunity to learn how public health and nutrition education can engage a community and lead to improved long-term health outcomes. What she didn’t know was that she would also learn more about the power of the Niagara University alumni network. Just a few days after she started at the food bank, where she led hands-on cooking demonstrations and classroom instruction to increase nutrition awareness, Fred Wasiak, president, CEO, and Niagara alumnus from the Class of 1983, reached out to her. Throughout the eight-week summer program, Wasiak would connect with Lippa to have informal conversations about her experiences, challenges, and opportunities for growth. After Lippa attended a staff meeting where she observed Wasiak’s leadership style, she was “so impressed and inspired by him” that she requested a formal meeting “to learn more about how he does what he does, why he does it, and how he learned how to do it so I can use those strategies and tactics for myself.”
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Niagara University
Wasiak was happy to take time to meet with Lippa one-on-one. During their conversation, he shared the progression of his career and how he developed his leadership skills. He even gave her his dog-eared, highlighted copy of the book “Resonant Leadership.” “It was really a great conversation,” Lippa said. “It changed my perspective of how I would like to lead on campus. We talked about the difference between management and leadership, and I have used some of the advice he has given me.” Knowing that Lippa is interested in pursuing a career in social work and public health, Wasiak also introduced her to a food pantry board member who offered Lippa career and professional development advice over coffee. When Lippa returned to Niagara University this fall, she began a field placement at the Alzheimer’s Association, where she advocates for the organization as a State Champion for Assemblyman Angelo Morinello. She says her experience at the food bank gave her the skills she needs to be successful in that role. “I was quite confident when I walked into the agency on the first day,” she said.
“
Senior social work major Meghan Lippa with NU alumnus Fred Wasiak, president and CEO of the Food Bank of South Jersey.
It really builds confidence and a sense of power that you have all these people that you can call on at any time. I believe it is an integral part of the Niagara experience and an incredible resource.
Both Lippa and Wasiak anticipate continuing their professional relationship over the coming years, as she pursues graduate studies and her career. For Lippa, the connection will provide a network she can reach out to when she needs assistance with professional development or in her job search. For Wasiak, it is an opportunity to continue the Niagara spirit. “To know you have connections brings a sense of security, confidence, and hope for the next phase of the journey,” he said. Lippa agrees. “It really builds confidence and a sense of power that you have all these people that you can call on at any time. I believe it is an integral part of the Niagara experience and an incredible resource.”
Alumni engagement is critical to the success of our students. If you are interested in assisting current students, join our Alumni Career Network by signing up at https://baseline.campuslabs.com/nu/ careernetwork, or contact Career Services directly at 716.286.8500 or careers@niagara.edu.
NIAGAR A UNIVERSITY
Continues
Vision to Become the Premier Binational University in Ontario
N
iagara University has taken another step toward becoming the premier binational university within the Province of Ontario with the addition of three new programs. Starting now, students can enroll in Niagara’s Master of Business Administration program, while master’s degree programs in information security and digital forensics and in finance are slated to start in the fall. This expansion aligns with the university’s strategic plan and continues the vision of the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., Niagara University president, to build upon the university’s more than 35-year legacy in the region. “Our founders, the Rev. John Lynch and the Rev. John Timon, conceived Niagara University as a binational institution whose mission was to educate priests serving the region from Buffalo to Toronto,” Father Maher said. “The addition of three new programs in our Vaughan, Ontario, site, continues this legacy by making our exceptional academic offerings available to an increased number of students. These programs are diverse, inclusive, and values-based, preparing graduates to be global citizens who make a positive impact in their communities across the region, the country, and the world.”
In February, the inaugural Maurizio Bevilacqua Scholarship Fund was announced at the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce Annual Mayor’s Luncheon. The scholarship, launched by Fazzari + Partners, is intended to support the next generation of business and community leaders and will be awarded to one promising Niagara University student studying at the school’s Vaughan campus each year. Niagara University celebrated the one-year anniversary of its permanent location in the Vaughan Metropolitan Center in January, where more than 300 students are currently enrolled in its Ontario College of Teachers-accredited Bachelor of Professional Studies in Education program, and in its Master of Science in Educational Leadership program. During the past year, Niagara has taken deliberate and focused steps to become embedded into the Vaughan community by working with local organizations and becoming an active member of the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce. One of the most recent initiatives was Niagara University’s participation in a trade mission to Israel. Dr. Vincent Rinaldo, vice president of Ontario Administration, accompanied a delegation of representatives from the Vaughan Chamber of Commerce, the City of Vaughan, and more than a dozen local businesses to encourage job-creating
trade, build alliances, pursue investments, support the growth of participating local companies and globally recognized institutions, and strengthen relations with Jewish and Israeli communities. The group met with the Federation of Israeli Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from the Embassy of Canada to Israel provided a discussion forum focused on Smart Cities and economic growth challenges and opportunities. Meetings with other organizations and educational institutions were held throughout the trip, including the Israeli embassy; SNUNIT, a company that promotes digital education throughout Israel through the integration of technology into teaching, learning, and assessment processes; ATID Technologic Colleges Network LTD, a national network of schools and colleges for advanced science and technology studies; IDC Herzliya, a private and innovative Israeli university with a strong mission of social justice; and Hacker U, Israel’s leading company for training and placement in the high-tech professions. As a result of these meetings, a number of potential partnerships that would positively impact Niagara University as a whole are in discussion.
Students in Niagara University’s Vaughan location display posters they created as part of their education cousework.
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“Taking
Flight
2020”
How Niagara University Will Compete in a Declining and Hyper-Competitive ing Higher Education Market “Takh Flig0t” 202 “Takin
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the decline in the number of college-aged students has led to decreased enrollment in undergraduate degree programs, as well as in community colleges and graduate schools. Compounding this situation is the greater competition for these students, which has resulted in increased discounting and reduction of net-tuition revenue. Unfortunately, the situation has had a more significant impact in the Northeast and Western New York, and is projected to continue well into the future.
2020”
As a result of these foreboding projections, colleges and universities across the country have been forced to take a serious look at what makes their institutions significantly different from others. In other words, what programs, services, or incentives does an institution have that makes it a compelling choice to college-aged students and their families? Making this situation worse is the fact that the reputation of higher education
today is marred by the perception of continually increasing tuition and unmanageable student loan debt. Niagara University has many benefits that would appeal to a college-aged student, but as compelling as all of these areas of distinction are, many colleges and universities are promoting similar things. Fortunately, we were proactive over the past few years and recognized the challenging headwinds that higher education was facing. Leadership initiatives, including our Canadian location, which continues to expand with new academic offerings and students; the increased number of international students on our Monteagle Ridge campus, which has
enhanced its diversity and made it more inviting; and exciting new student-centered opportunities like The Nest and Esports lounge, have allowed us to break from the negative trends facing higher education. Certainly, our robust and talented class of first-year students—which represents a 21 percent increase from 2018-2019—is a testament to the positive momentum we have. For some, these early wins would suggest that Niagara University has been able to avoid the enrollment crisis that other private colleges and universities are facing. But as the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., Niagara University’s president, continues to remind us from his vantage point as a member of many national higher education boards, what we did yesterday will not be enough to sustain our competitive position in a declining market in the future. He has challenged us to enhance our academic standing by continuing to market our many outstanding program areas, especially those that already have a stellar reputation and resources for growth. With this as a reference point, Father Maher asked Dr. Timothy Ireland, NU provost, and Michael Freedman, associate vice president of marketing, to do a comprehensive study of all our academic areas and their enrollment history over the last eight years. He also asked them to identify programs that would need
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Niagara University
additional resources, as well as new ones that could be established. It became exceedingly clear that academic areas like education, nursing, accounting, hospitality and tourism, criminal justice, sport management, food marketing, and communication and media studies, as well as many areas in the sciences and technology-related fields, are historically high-achieving academic majors, but have lacked a powerful marketing program to let the public know just how strong and established these areas are.
communication and media studies, criminal justice, education, nursing, sport management, and theatre on the undergraduate level; and education, information security and digital forensics (cybersecurity), MBA YourWay, nursing (accelerated), and sport man- agement on the graduate platform.
marketing and focused resource allocation of market-ready academic programs. “Taking Flight 2020” enables us to build on the strong academic programs that have stood the test of time, as well as develop new programs that offer immediate paths to gainful employment.
2
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“Taking Flight 2020” is a comprehensive strategic initiative to elevate the stature of Niagara University and enable us to build on the strong academic programs that have stood the test of time, as well as develop new programs that offer immediate paths to gainful employment.
g in t k a h “T ig ”
From this study, Ireland and Freedman established “Taking Flight 2020,” a comprehensive strategic initiative to elevate the stature of Niagara University through the targeted
To support this initiative, new mar- keting materials have been developed that give a comprehensive description of the qualities and distinguishing characteristics of each academic program, as well as the outcomes that can be expected after graduation. In addition, a new social media campaign has been launched, and our admissions team has been educating both high school students and guidance counselors about the distinctive opportunities these programs offer. Although the strategy is still in its early stages, we have seen a 10% increase in the number of applications for the “Taking Flight 2020” academic programs thus far, and are encouraged by this early sign of success.
Over the next three to five years, through a blend of thematic and program-specific marketing, “Taking Flight 2020” is expected to become a sustainable enrollment growth engine, initially highlighting the following areas: business,
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Niagara University opens The Nest as a sports lounge & gaming area for Esports iagara University has cut the ribbon on The Nest, a state-of- the-art sports lounge and new gaming area for the university’s growing Esports club. The Nest, located in O’Shea Hall, creates additional social and recreation spaces where students can watch sports and movies on largescreen TVs, attend student-run events, or even continue classroom conversations and collaborate on group projects. A special section of this new area will house the university’s Esports Club, giving its members a place to practice and play in league matches.
to meet and have localized practices with their teammates and peers who share a passion for video gaming, allowing them to congregate while having the opportunity to use top-of-the-line equipment to better themselves in various fields of collegiate electronic gaming.”
students who enjoy the social aspect of video gaming, says William Newton, assistant director of Campus Activities. “The club brings students who have the same interests together, where they can make new friends and have an enriching collegiate experience.”
Since its launch in October 2018, membership in Niagara University’s Esports club has grown quickly. More than 40 students are now part
And while men make up the majority of Esports gamers, NU’s club counts three women as members.
of the group, which recently became a member of the Electronic Gaming Federation’s national intercollegiate Esports league. The team competed in four titles—League of Legends, Rocket League, Overwatch, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate—during its first EGF season.
“It has been amazing to be a part of this club,” said Hannah Bushart, a freshman majoring in psychology from Rochester, N.Y. “Everyone is so kind to each other and are very positive. I met my friends this way, and they are the closest friends I have ever had. I am so thankful to be a part of such a forward-thinking club.”
“We know that state-of-the-art learning facilities are only part of the equation when it comes to the student experience in higher education,” said Dr. Debra Colley, Niagara University executive vice president. “Creating social and recreational spaces that complement the university’s academic experience provides our students the opportunity to relax and socialize, away from the high pressure of today’s academic environment. The Nest provides a welcoming, comfortable, high-tech space for Niagara University that will significantly enhance our students’ extracurricular experience and aligns with our strategic plan to foster a culture that puts students first.” The new, 2,200-square-foot campus space features 70- and 86-inch smart TVs, to which students can attach video game consoles for social gaming, and separate seating areas that include booths and modular furniture to accommodate student gatherings. The Nest also includes an area that will be home to Niagara’s popular Esports club, where its members can compete in league play. That space includes 12 state-of-the-art desktop computers with powerful RTX 2060 graphics cards, 24-inch 1080p monitors, and custom set and controlled rainbow lighting, and three 50-inch TVs. “The Nest is a critical example of an area students can unite to willingly face new challenges and find solutions,” said Bryce Molnar, president of NU’s Esports Club. “Esports is a great example of the immense impact that video games continue to have on society. This space allows students
Not all of the Esports Club members are competitive gamers; the group also welcomes
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Niagara University
Under
Head Coach
Purple Eagles Soar In November, Greg Paulus was named head coach of the Niagara University men’s basketball program. Paulus, whose stellar resume includes eight NCAA Tournament appearances as a player and a coach, has developed his craft after 14 years of playing and coaching at some of the most prestigious programs in collegiate athletics. “Since his first day on campus, Greg has exhibited a high level of professionalism and dedication to our student-athletes,” Simon Gray, NU’s director of athletics, said at the announcement. “His leadership abilities have only strengthened in the past weeks, and he has impressed throughout our evaluation of him as our next head coach. I have had the privilege of talking with his extensive network and appreciate the praise for his character, work ethic, and knowledge of the game. Greg has proven to be an effective recruiter and positive presence on campus and in the community.”
The Syracuse, N.Y., native, who started at point guard for legendary college basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski at Duke University, previously served on the coaching staffs at George Washington, Louisville, Ohio State, and Navy. Highly regarded for his dedication to the holistic development of student-athletes, Paulus joined the Purple Eagles staff in May as assistant coach and recruiting coordinator, and he has been instrumental in building the incoming class for the team. “It is an honor and a privilege to be named the men’s basketball head coach at Niagara University,” Paulus said. “I want to thank our president, Father James Maher, C.M., and director of athletics, Simon Gray, for the opportunity to represent Niagara University in leading our basketball program and developing our student-athletes. This is a special place and a program rich in tradition. We look forward to working extremely hard to make the Niagara community proud.” A three-year starter and two-time captain for Duke, Paulus played on three ACC Championship teams and four NCAA Tournament teams, helping Duke to a combined 112-28 record while leading the team in assists in 2006, 2007, and 2008. He spent the 2009-10 season at Syracuse as a graduate student transfer on the football team, where he was the starting quarterback and captain.
In November, Greg Paulus was named head coach of the Niagara University men’s basketball program.
Paulus began his coaching career as an assistant coach at the Naval Academy from 2010-11, before joining Ohio State as the program’s video coordinator in 2013. He spent two years in that role before becoming an assistant coach, a position he held for four seasons. During his time at Ohio State, Paulus served as both offensive and defensive coordinator as the team produced a 147-66 record, two Big Ten Championships, and participated in the NCAA Tournament on four occasions, including playing in two NCAA Regional Finals and reaching the 2012 Final Four. He helped the Buckeyes sign top-10 recruiting classes in 2014 and 2015 and was recognized by college basketball national reporter Jeff Goodman as one of the nation’s top assistant coaches in 2015. He had extensive work player development which helped lead to four NBA draft selections—Jared Sullinger, Deshaun Thomas, Keita Bates-Diop, and D’Angelo Russell. Paulus spent the 2017-18 season at Louisville, where he helped the Cardinals to an NIT Quarterfinals appearance and assisted in the development of two NBA players—Deng Adel and Ray Spalding. He then joined the staff at George Washington for the 2018-19 season. Now at Niagara, Paulus’ leadership has made the Purple Eagles one of the most competitive teams in the MAAC this season, surpassing their preseason prediction by contending near
the top of the conference and increasing their conference win total by at least three games. The team has excited fans in the Gallagher Center with dramatic victories, including the Jan. 17 win against Rider on a buzzer-beating three-point play that made ESPN’s SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt. On Feb. 29 versus Iona, the Purple Eagles rallied from a seven-point deficit in the final 35 seconds of regulation to force overtime on another buzzer-beating threepointer, winning in overtime. Niagara finished its home schedule with a 9-3 record, with eight of those wins coming in league play. The Purple Eagles ranked statistically in the top 20 in the nation in fewest turnovers per game and in turnover margin, while leading the MAAC in both categories, and had the best assist-to-turnover ratio in the MAAC. In the classroom, the Purple Eagles have also excelled. Niagara posted a program-best 3.18 GPA in the 2019 fall semester and have eight student-athletes with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. In the community, the student-athletes have been practicing the university’s mission of community service—they sponsored a family during the holiday season through Community Missions of Niagara Frontier and volunteered at the Magdalene Project at St. George’s Church in Niagara Falls at Thanksgiving.
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By Breanna Jacobs, assistant director of strategic communications/public relations
Niagara Students
Get Hands-On Experience with
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Students at Niagara University are getting the unique opportunity to earn behind-the-scenes experience working on ESPN broadcasts for Purple Eagle athletic events. This is the first year of school-produced ESPN broadcasts at Niagara, and students have had the chance to get involved from the start. In a newly renovated studio in Dunleavy Hall, students are getting hands-on experience and learning what makes a broadcast run successfully. Students have the chance to learn and work multiple positions, including graphics, replay, statistics, timeout coordinator, and phone coordinator. Students also serve as camera operators in the venues during games. “Launching Purple Eagles athletic home events on the ESPN platform has been a testament to the power of collaboration,” said Simon Gray, director of athletics. “Several members of our department have teamed with professionals throughout our campus, specifically academic affairs, information technology, communications, facility services and, most importantly, students. These broadcasts provide the perfect experiential learning lab for Niagara University students from several academic disciplines.”
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Niagara University
Niagara’s enhanced game experience, which includes three high-definition LED video boards in its athletic venues and a renovated video production studio in Dunleavy Hall, is thanks to the generosity of Bill McKnight, ’ 66, president of Automated Petroleum and Energy Co., and his wife, Kathy, who gifted Niagara University Athletics with $1 million to transform the gameday experience. Kyle Barker, the coordinator of broadcast and multimedia for the Niagara University Department of Athletics, works closely with the students during games and serves as their supervisor. Barker, who graduated from Niagara in May 2019, is eager to help students make the most of their opportunity. “I’m excited to have the chance to help provide these students with the incredible opportunity to help run a high-level ESPN broadcast,” Barker said. “Being able to work on these broadcasts is preparing students for a future in sports broadcasting, communications, or multimedia, and the experience will prove to be invaluable. It’s been an exciting time for the athletics department and our broadcasts wouldn’t be nearly as successful without our hard-working student crews.”
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Kyle Barker, coordinator of broadcast and multimedia for athletics (standing), works with Tom Petruzzi in the renovated video production studio in Dunleavy Hall.
Being able to work on these broadcasts is preparing students for a future in sports broadcasting, communications, or multimedia, and the experience will prove to be invaluable. It’s been an exciting time for the athletics department and our broadcasts wouldn’t be nearly as successful without our hardworking student crews.
Students get a full gameday experience, starting with the setup of all the equipment, including cables, cameras, and announcer packs needed to make the broadcast run, and ending with the teardown and meticulous organization of all the equipment that was used throughout the game. “Being able to work on an ESPN broadcast as an undergrad gives students a great experience and the opportunity to try many different roles within a broadcast,” said Dan Richeal, a senior sport management major. “Being able to see what happens in the studio has changed my perspective while watching broadcasts and has given me more of an understanding of the work that goes on behind the scenes. It has opened my eyes to even more opportunities as I look to begin my career in sports.” Students of all classes and majors are able to enroll in a sports broadcasting class, taught by Dr. Mark Barner, associate professor of communication studies, which meets a few times a week to help students learn the ins and outs of broadcasting and prepare them for their gameday responsibilities. With the help of Niagara’s students, the athletic department was able to broadcast all home women’s volleyball games on the ESPN Family of Networks this fall and all home men’s and women’s basketball games for the 2019-20 season.
By Lisa McMahon, M.A.’09
Lisa Kurbiel, ’89
An Inf luencer for Social Good “It was a gamble,” she admits, “but I just was convinced that was where I needed to be. I think I was seeing a way of being influential for good.”
When it was time to go to college—“a given,” Kurbiel says, because her parents always told her that an education would give her the freedom to do whatever she wanted— “she stayed close to home, attending Niagara University as a communication studies major with the intention of working in advertising or public relations.
Kurbiel’s gamble paid off several months later when she was offered a contract as a legal advisor to the government of Mongolia, first with the United Nations Development Programme, then with its Governance Division. Mongolia had just reached independence and the government was establishing the legal framework for what it believed would be the country’s renaissance. Kurbiel provided guidance for officials as they established long-term legislative, policy, and sustainable development strategies.
To complement her curriculum, Kurbiel completed two public relations internships. She became aware that, while the public relations professionals were often women, the CEOs of the companies for which she worked were men. What separated the two, Kurbiel discovered, was the fact that the men typically had advanced degrees. To her, a C-Suite position meant having influence to affect change, and as a juris doctor seemed to be the preferred way to get one, Kurbiel enrolled at St. John’s University Law School, where she could continue her education in an institution whose Vincentian values aligned with her own view of the world. Internships were an important part of her graduate school education, as well. One in particular, with the United Nations Center for Transnational Corporations in New York City, started her on the career path she still follows today. “I was just smitten by what it (the UN) represented,” Kurbiel said. “Eleanor Roosevelt, the Declaration of Human Rights. You think about all the Vincentian messaging that I received, and I went to Catholic schools, so doing good and helping others was always the foundational concept. But I think, for me, the UN made it law, so it was beyond your faith, beyond Catholic dogma. There was something about human rights law that really made me say ‘This is why I want to be a lawyer.’ It was so crystal clear.” After obtaining her law degree and being admitted to the New York State Bar in 1992, Kurbiel
worked weekends and evenings at the Barbri Group so that her days were free to volunteer with the UN.
“In many ways, I was a note taker in those early days,” Kurbiel said, “but I was also exposed to how the UN operated and what it could do. And I met phenomenal colleagues and mentors, people who are just so committed to the UN and what it stands for, which was so motivating. The trip to Mongolia was the big break, and I knew I wasn’t going to go back.” Those contracts led to others, including one in Somalia, where she educated ex-combatants from the Somali Civil War about human rights as they transitioned to jobs as police officers. Positions within the United Nations system followed. In the Department of PeaceKeeping Operation, she served as focal point for human trafficking, before taking on several roles with UNICEF, including child trafficking focal point, senior social policy specialist in Somalia and Mozambique, and chief of communications, advocacy and partnerships in Kenya. During these years, Kurbiel developed and implemented policy and communications initiatives to combat sexual abuse and exploitation, human trafficking, and child labor affecting women and children in conflict around the world. One of her proudest accomplishments was working on a zero-tolerance policy to prohibit anyone associated with the UN, from a peacekeeper to a civilian police officer to a contractor, from exploiting or having sex with a child
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Lisa Kurbiel, ’89, in Somalia circa 1995.
I was just thrilled, because the reason I joined the UN was to help the underdog, to really battle against those who take advantage of the weaker.
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Lisa Kurbiel, ’89, grew up in North Tonawanda, the only child of a father who served as the town’s plumbing inspector and a mother who was a travel agent. Their Polish, Catholic traditions formed the foundation for a happy childhood spent in the Polish American community of that small Western New York city.
under the age of 18. The policy was endorsed by the UN’s General Assembly—“obvious to many, but not so obvious in the complexity of peacekeeping operations where the legal frameworks in some troop-contributing countries impact the legal age of consent and other sovereign influences,” she noted. Another was writing capital gains tax legislation in Mozambique that enabled that country to collect taxes from the multinational companies that mined its natural resources and defined how they would be used. Kurbiel added that she was able to advise the government to commit the first of these taxes, which amounted to $400 million US, to nutrition for children. “I was just thrilled, because the reason I joined the UN was to help the underdog, to really battle against those who take advantage of the weaker,” she explained.
Kurbiel’s role with the UN also enabled her to satisfy her wanderlust, which was instilled by the family vacations to Mexico, Europe, and the Caribbean she took as a child. “It was extremely exciting for me,” she said. “The friends I made are from all over the world, but we love a bit of adventure and we love doing things differently. At the time, it felt exotic and I enjoyed that.” Continued on page 25
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News FROM THE NEST Alumni Engagement Survey Jaclyn Rossi, ’08, M.S.Ed.’10, Director of Alumni Relations In November 2019, we completed our first alumni engagement survey in more than five years. We received responses from over 900! Thank you to ALL who completed the survey.
The Good News
Our goals for the survey were to: Assess alumni satisfaction Identify preferred methods of communication Determine current level of engagement Learn opportunities to deepen affinity Assess willingness to volunteer or make financial donations Gain insights with open-ended responses
s s s s s s
s s s s s s s
We plan to survey our alums each year so we can learn more about your education, experience, and current engagement with Niagara University.
*Combining very satisfied and satisfied **Combining yes and maybe
Why Is the Alumni Participation Rate Important?
Areas for Improvement
The alumni participation rate is the percentage of alumni who give back to their alma mater. Giving to Niagara University shows your confidence and satisfaction in your alma mater. External evaluators, like U.S. News & World Report, use it as an indicator of alumni satisfaction in calculating rankings. It is also used by foundations and corporations to demonstrate an institution’s financial strength.
99% satisfaction rate* with their education 95% satisfaction rate* with preparation for career/life 91% read and receive our communications Preferred communication, top three forms: • The Eagle • Email updates • E-newsletter 70% indicated a willingness to volunteer.** If you’re interested in getting more involved, contact us at alumni@niagara.edu. 50% indicated yes or maybe to a discretionary/blended gift 46% indicated yes or maybe to a deferred gift
The survey also indicated that Niagara ranks low among philanthropic priorities across a majority of respondents, and that alumni satisfaction has not translated into a culture of philanthropy. Our challenge is to change that so we can increase the alumni participation rate. Our goal is to increase it from 11.6%. (Fiscal Year 2019) to 18%, which is the average participation rate for private institutions.
How Can You Make a Difference?
Every gift counts, and any size gift helps increase our participation rate. You can support Niagara University by making a gift today. Go online at support. niagara.edu/donate, or contact Tiffany Ryan, gift accountant, by phone at 716.286.8790. You can also donate during our Day of Giving on Sept. 25, 2020! Last year’s successful campaign helped us move our alumni participation rate from 8% in FY 18 to 11.6% in FY 19. At the end of our fiscal year 2020 (May 31, 2020), we will share how you helped us move the alumni participation rate closer to our goal of 18%. Remember, all gifts make a significant difference to Niagara University and our students. If you need more information or have questions, contact me at 716.286.8761 or jrossi@niagara.edu.
Purple Eagles Emergency Relief Fund Established Niagara’s response to the challenges of COVID-19
In light of all that is happening in the world today, we have decided to postpone our traditional Day of Giving to the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul on Sept. 25, 2020. Our efforts must now be focused on the urgent critical need of our students, which will be supported with the Purple Eagles Emergency Relief Fund. This fund will be put to immediate use, supplementing financial packages for new and returning students with things such as tuition gaps, on-campus housing, meal plans, and more. It will ultimately reassure students that during this time of uncertainty, they can count on continuing their education at Niagara and still experience the life-changing opportunities we offer—experiences we were fortunate enough to have uninterrupted. Help these Purple Eagles soar! www.niagara.edu/purplestrong
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OUR APOLOGIES The following individuals were inadvertently omitted from the 2018-19 Donor Report: Emil R., ’43,* & Jeannette Q. Annunziato—$300 Walter J., ’54,* & Jeanne M. Beecher—$2,000 Robert J., ’65,* & Carol Gibbons—$5,000 Marilyn C. Lojek, M.S.Ed.’75—$10,125 (John M., ’73 & Marilyn C. Lojek, M.S.’75, Educational Administration and Supervision Professional Diploma Program, ’87 Current Use Scholarship) We regret the oversight and appreciate your continued generosity! *Deceased
Who was there
Buffalo, N.Y.—Christmas Party at Reikart House—Dec. 6, 2019— Robert Chandran, ’79, and John Lindak, ’79.
Tampa Bay, Fla.—Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Buffalo Sabres—Nov. 25, 2019—sisters Kelly Strenkoski Giansante, ’01, and Christine Strenkoski Robinson, ’96.
Syracuse, N.Y.—Pregame Gathering before Syracuse vs. Niagara Men’s Basketball Game—Dec. 28, 2019— Cara Fiori Potamianos, ’91; Carolyn Marcoux Nicholson, ’91; Molly Manning Murray, ’91; the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M.; Kristen Bayer McDonough, ’91; and Katie Deehan, ’91.
Las Vegas, Nev.—Alumni Gathering— Jan. 16, 2020—Father Maher with Henry Poreda, ’63.
Buffalo, N.Y.—Christmas Party at Reikart House—Dec. 6, 2019— Sawyer Mosher, ’16; Allison Jensen, ’15; and Antoinina Harlach, ’15.
Dallas, Texas—Alumni Gathering— Nov. 5, 2019—Marti McGrann Ryan, ’73, and Lorraine Hecker, ’76.
New York City—Christmas Happy Hour—Dec. 10, 2019— Peter Pellegrino, ’86, and Lisa LeCuyer, ’08.
Norfolk, Va.—Norfolk vs. Niagara University Men’s Basketball Game—Dec. 1, 2019—Orlando Harrison, ’72; head coach Greg Paulus; and Cleavan Royster, ’74.
Los Angeles, Calif.—LA Kings vs. Buffalo Sabres—Oct. 17, 2019— Kathy Cosentino, ’93; Michele Smith, ’85; and Michelle VanDeloo, ’01.
EAGLE/SPRING 2020
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CATCHING UP Elizabeth Organt, M.S.Ed.’86, co-presented “Helping LD Students Succeed: Strategies for Both Parent and Teacher,” with colleague Joyce Howley at the 2019 Learning Disabilities Association of America International Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, February 2019.
Class Notes
1970s
Maureen Rooney Reid, B.A.’72, published her first novel, “Becoming Herself,” a story inspired by her grandmother’s experiences as a young Irish immigrant. David Szymanski, SOLA’72, retired from the Douglas-Omaha, Neb., Technology Commission as a senior business analyst and project manager. He taught therapeutics, special education, and IT classes at Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Indiana, and Bellevue universities, and is a retired volunteer firefighter and EMT with more than 40 years of service to local communities. Robert Engel, BBA’75, joined Heartland Financial USA Inc. as an independent director on its board of directors. He is chief executive officer and managing director of BLT Advisory Services, LLC, and a former member of the Niagara University Board of Trustees. Stephen Blazick, B.S.’76, joined Inland Securities Corp., Oak Brook, Ill., as senior vice president-external wholesaler. Prior to joining Inland Securities, he served as a recruiter for Mass Mutual New York State and Cadaret Grant & Co., and was a regional vice president for Wells Capital.
1980s
Robert Restaino, B.A.’81, was elected mayor of Niagara Falls, N.Y. He has held a number of public-sector positions, including assistant attorney with the Niagara County Department of Social Justice, special assistant in Niagara County examining Medicare fraud, city court judge, assistant public defender, and school board president.
Rhodella Decker Hughes, BBA,’88, is the owner and yoga instructor at Yoga in the Adirondacks at The Divine Acres, Bakers Mills, N.Y. Her business was recently voted the #1 upstate NY yoga studio in the NY YOGA+life magazine. In August, members of the Class of 1981 gathered together at Patty (Gelia) Hollenbeck’s beach home in Sawyer, Mich., to commemorate their 60th birthday year. During the reunion, they saw “Hamilton” in Chicago. The lifetime friends have reunited in different locations every five years since graduation. From left: Karen (Schwartz) Phaup, Mindy (Bratosh) Wheeler, Vickie (Carson) Swinehart, Roxanne (Billington) Martina, Patty (Gelia) Hollenbeck, and Audrey Gill. Missing from photo: Cindy Arman.
Stephen Saleski, BBA’83, joined Sutton Real Estate Company, Syracuse, N.Y., as a salesperson. He is a former certified public accountant and has worked as a controller and chief financial officer for several businesses. Dan DiPofi, BBA’85, was named chief executive officer of Twinlab Consolidation Corp., a leader in the dietary supplement and nutraceutical space. Dan previously served as the executive vice president and CEO of the Buffalo Sabres, and has held senior executive positions within the sports and entertainment industry for over 20 years. Maryalice Demler, B.A.’86, was honored by Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center with its Nancy Gara Spirit Award for her service to the hospital and the community at its annual black tie gala Jan. 18, 2020. The North Tonawanda native is a television anchor/reporter for WGRZ-TV.
1990s
Lawrence A. Colby, B.A.’92, is rolling out the third in his #1 Amazon bestselling thriller series this summer. “The Buffalo Pilot” features the Buffalo/Niagara area, including an exciting scene in the Gallagher Center on the Niagara University campus. Other scenes take place at the Niagara Air Reserve Base, Canal Fest, downtown Buffalo, Lewiston, and the NY Power Authority Robert Moses Niagara Hydroelectric Power Station. He can be found on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, and followed on FB/IG/Twitter @ ColbyThrillers. Nicole Sandford, BBA’92, has accepted the position of executive vice president and Global Board Services leader at Ellig Group, where she will execute director searches and advise boards and senior executives on matters related to governance. She comes to Ellig from Deloitte, where she had a 27-year career, most recently serving as national managing partner of regulatory and operational risk practice.
Mark Scheuerman, B.A.’81, joined the DiMarco Group as general counsel. He most recently served as vice president and general counsel for The DDS Cos. Inc. Deacon Steve Schumer, B.S.’81, was named president and CEO of Catholic Charities of Buffalo, N.Y. He was ordained as a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Buffalo in 2014 and currently serves at Our Lady of Charity Parish in South Buffalo. Previously, he was head of the correspondent banking division at M&T Bank, where he worked for more than 33 years.
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Seventeen members of the Class of 1991 gathered in Charleston, S.C., to celebrate their 50th birthdays and 32 years of friendship: Karen (Davis) Hannon, Karen (Woodruff) Wilton, Carloyn (Marcoux) Nicholson, Ami Eisenschmid, Jeanne (Robinson) MacKrell, Charlene (Martin) McDonald, DeAnn (D’Agostino) Smith, Katie Deehan, Mireille (Tresse) McQuade, Kathleen (Murray) Beebe, Kirsten (Bayer) McDonough, Betsy (Morpurgo) Kuhlmann, Brenna (Laben) Barron, Ivy (Gerould) Pesa, Molly (Manning) Murray, Trish (Presutti) Hunt, and Cara (Fiore) Potamianos. “It was an amazing Niagara reunion weekend! Laughs, tears of joy, and so many great Niagara sister memories!” said Mireille (Tresse) McQuade.
CATCHING UP Robert Frost, M.S.Ed.’93, will be one of two featured artists at the Lewiston Public Library in spring 2020. “Call and Response” is a joint exhibit of Robert’s poems and the multimedia works of Mark Weld. Ryan Diodati, B.A.’94, was promoted to deputy chief of the Hamilton Police Service, Ontario, Canada. The former superintendent of investigative services is a 23-year veteran of the services. Brenda Beutel, B.S.’98, joined the University of Vermont Health Network’s Elizabethtown Community Hospital as a family nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience as a critical care nurse, nurse manager, and school nurse for special needs children.
2000s
Toni Ann (Daley) Walsh, B.S.’00, was named vice president of marketing and development at The Reading League, a national, not-for-profit organization focused on bringing the science of reading into classrooms. Amy (Smith) Engler, B.S.’01, was named executive director of the Clarence, N.Y., Chamber of Commerce. Monica DiSanza Dvoranchik, B.A.’02, is the owner of Sinai Sports, Erie, Pa.’s first ninja warrior gym and multisport training facility. Amber (Zito) Ash, B.S.’03, has been appointed chair of Hospice of the Western Reserve’s Trauma Informed Care Committee. She will be responsible for leading an interdisciplinary group of medical professionals as they provide ongoing trauma education and develop agency policies that are trauma informed. Shannon (Young) Doleski, B.A.’03, is the author of “Mary Underwater,” a middle-grade fiction book that will be published by Abrams/ Amulet.
Niagara University staff, students, and alumni were treated to dinner at the home of Kevin Callahan, ’90, during a one-week B.A.S.I.C (Brothers and Sisters in Christ) mission trip to Texas in January to help rebuild homes damaged by Hurricane Harvey. They also enjoyed the hospitality of Matt, ’91, and Elaine Flynn Nowak, ’90, during the trip.
Melissa (Pliniski) Lanigan, BBA’05, has been promoted to tax senior manager at Dermody, Burke & Brown CPAs, Syracuse, N.Y. Bill Patti, BFA’05, was named general manager of Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo, N.Y. He previously served as artistic director and theater
manager at Highlands Playhouse in North Carolina.
Drew Dunlap, B.A.’07, was promoted to chief financial officer at Cornerstone Community FCU. He joined the organization in 2011 as a financial analyst specialist and also held the title of strategic planning manager. Ryan Virtue, B.S.’07, was selected to serve as a member of Greater Cleveland Sports Commissions’ Associate Board. This group aids the commission in attracting, creating, managing, and enhancing sporting and competitive events. Nicole (Buchheit) Whitt, BBA’07, is the recipient of a Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the highest award given by the U.S. government to kindergarten through 12th grade teachers of mathematics and science. Nicole is a teacher at Empire High School in Tucson, Ariz. Elizabeth Woock, B.S.’07, has been promoted to director of marketing at Destination Niagara USA, the official destination marketing organization for Niagara Falls, N.Y. and Niagara County.
2010s
Matthew Besant, BPS’10, passed the California bar exam to practice law in that state.
Nicole Sandford, BBA’92
Elizabeth Woock, B.S.’07
Chelsea Latta, B.A.’10, has advanced from associate to senior associate at Hodgson Russ LLP. She is a member of the firm’s immigration practice.
Katie (Hoefer) Patnode, B.S.’10, was appointed director of sales and marketing at Hotel Canandaigua, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. She has more than 10 years in the hospitality industry, previously working as director of sales and events for the Del Monte Hotel Group. Johnathon Miles, BBA’11, MBA’12, was promoted to manager at Brisbane Consulting Group, LLC, in Buffalo, N.Y. He has been with the firm since 2013. He is a board member with the Literacy Empowerment Action Plan of WNY, and a member of the Johnathon Miles, BBA’11, MBA’12 American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants. Jocelyn Kleiber, B.A.’12, was named head coach for Lawrence University’s Division III women’s hockey inaugural team. The team’s first season begins in 2020-21. Christopher Morrow, B.A.’13, is a senior finance analyst at Blackbaud, Inc., in Charleston, S.C. Kristin Delia, B.S.’14, was promoted to associate vice president of Impact PR & Communications, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. She previously served as an account manager. She was also named a Forty Under 40 honoree by the Dutchess County Chamber of Commerce. Erin Patenaude, B.S.’15, joined Fust Charles Chambers LLP, DeWitt, N.Y., as a tax associate.
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CATCHING UP Daniel Barto, B.S.’16, was promoted to director of visitor services for Destination Niagara USA, the destination marketing organization for Niagara Falls, USA. Laura Pennington Gawel, M.A.’16, joined Pinnacle Community Services as president and chief operating officer. She has more than 30 years of experience in human services administration, primarily in the field of developmental disabilities. Gabrielle Gleason, B.A.’16, is the communication specialist for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse, N.Y. Marny Dowd, BBA’17, MBA’18, joined Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP as a staff accountant. Sydney (Doway) Fletcher, B.S.’17, is senior event manager at ASM Global’s Blue Water Convention Center in Port Huron, Mich.
Niagara alumni Bianca Castagnaro, B.S.’12, Erin Hulbert, B.S.’11, Emily Englert, B.S.’13, Nicholas Gibson, B.S.’12, Diana Zaccardo, B.S.’13, Brittany (Charland) Calcagno, B.A.’11, Mary Bridget (Sennett) Thull, BBA’12, Molly (Dillon) Braswell, B.S.’12, Rebecca Jerva, B.S.’13, Amelia Foubister, B.S.’12, Alice Cuthbert, B.S.’11, Julia (Fella) Andersson, B.S.’13, and Laurine Zupp, B.S.’12 attended the wedding of Kristin Lundy, B.A.’12, M.S.’13.
Kristin Lundy, B.A.’12, M.S.’13, married Phil Calcagno on Aug. 24, 2019.
Births/Adoptions Ryan Delaney, B.S.’95, M.S.Ed.’96, and his wife, Heather, welcomed a son, Nelson Fox Delaney, on Nov. 24, 2019.
Jose Lopez, ’17, was named assistant coach for the Rochester Razorsharks of the Premier Basketball League.
Jon Sifer, B.S.’01, and his wife, Rachael, welcomed a son, Cameron Stone Sifer, on Oct. 18, 2019.
Leanne Lettow, BBA’18, joined Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP as a staff accountant.
Elizabeth (Mancuso) Carrigan, B.S.’02, and her husband, Gair, welcomed a daughter, Leah Elizabeth Carrigan, on Sept. 7, 2019.
Kirsten Nice, BBA’18, joined Chiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner LLP as a staff accountant. McQuade Lyons, B.S.’19, joined Ian Black Real Estate, Sarasota, Fla., as a sales associate. Patrick Morris, ’19, is a legal video technician at Jack W. Hunt & Associates, Inc.
Marriages/Anniversaries
Five Niagara University alumni were part of the bridal party for James Lumadue, B.S.’14, MBA’15, and Paige Printup, B.S.’15, M.S.’19. Pictured from left with the bride and groom are Jake Lumadue, B.S. ’19, William Lumadue, B.S.’16, MBA’17, Jessica Rueda, B.S.’17, Kimberly Milleville, B.S.’16, and Ryan Hulub, B.S.’16.
James Lumadue, B.S.’14, MBA’15, married Paige Printup, B.S.’15, M.S.’19, on Sept. 28, 2019.
Susan Bornholdt Smith, B.S.’77, married Gary Paone on April 6, 2019.
Audra (DeFiore) Wood, B.A.’05, and her husband, Jason, welcomed a son, Oliver Wood, on Aug. 26, 2019. Rachel (Boutillier) Moore, B.S.’07, and her husband, Josh, welcomed a son, Zachary Moore, on April 27, 2019. Sara (Prybyl) Park, BBA’07, MBA’08, and her husband, Brad, welcomed a son, Dade Macklin Park, on June 11, 2019. Stacey Jones, B.S.’08, M.S.’09, and her husband, Kevin Festa, welcomed a son, Cole Jones Festa, on Jan. 3, 2020.
Molly McKeown, B.A,’10, married Anthony Wren on July 27, 2019.
Alicia (Licata) Nurnberger, B.S.’08, and her husband, Joaquin, welcomed a son, Luigi Michael Joseph Nurnberger, on Sept. 12, 2019.
Catherine, B.S.’14, and Anthony Tringali, B.S.’14
Niagara alumni at the wedding of Molly McKeown Wren, B.A.’10, are, from left, Joanne (McKeown) Corley, B.A.’80, Courtney Davies, B.S.’11, Ashleigh (Bowers) Emery, B.A.’11, Christopher Karl, BBA’09, MBA’11, Molly Wren, and Michelle Emery, B.S.’10.
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Anthony Tringali, B.S.’14, married Catherine Trzaska, B.S.’14, on Nov. 9, 2019. Andrew Szpylman, BBA’15, married Kelsey Dubetsky, BBA’15, MBA’16, on Oct. 12, 2019. Heather and Ryan Delaney, B.S.’95, M.S.Ed.’96, with son, Nelson Fox.
CATCHING UP Richard A. Touma, B.S.’53, passed away Dec. 14, 2019. He taught in elementary schools in the Niagara Falls, N.Y., school district. Our condolences to his son, Andrew Touma, B.S.’90, M.S.Ed.’94, M.S.Ed.’98; to his daughter-in-law, Jocelyn (Supon) Touma, B.A.’02, M.S.Ed.’06; and to his granddaughter, Britini D’Angelo, BFA’19.
Cole Jones Festa
Dade Macklin Park
Jasper Patrick Griske
Parker James Farrell
Adam, B.S.’09, MBA’11, and Jaclyn (Plante) French, B.A.’09, welcomed a daughter, Emma Kay French, on Dec. 17, 2019.
Hayley (Scanlon) Farrell, B.A.’12, M.S.Ed.’16, and her husband, Andrew, welcomed a son, Parker James Farrell, on Sept. 14, 2019.
Craig LoPresti, B.A.’09, and his wife, Elise, welcomed a daughter, Mae Patricia LoPresti, on Nov. 21, 2019.
Sydney (Doway) Fletcher, B.S.’17, and her husband, Matthew, welcomed a son, Dominic Matthew Fletcher, on May 13, 2019.
In Memoriam Paul R. Hulub, B.A.’50, passed away Feb. 25, 2020. He was a former FBI agent and served for the Department of Defense. Our condolences to his wife, Theresa (O’Donnell) Hulub, B.S.’50; to his daughter, Elizabeth (Hulub) Ptak, B.S.’76; to his son, Timothy Hulub, B.A.’86; and to his grandson, Ryan Hulub, B.S.’16. Cameron Stone Sifer
Zachary Moore
Corinne (Oudkerk) Griske, B.A.’10, and her husband, Ryan, welcomed a son, Jasper Patrick Griske, on Nov. 9, 2019. Christopher Salada, B.S.’10, and his wife, Christine, welcomed a daughter, Francesca Salada, on Nov. 17, 2019. Lisa Sampogna, M.S.Ed.’10, and her husband, Ethan Earle, welcomed a daughter, Lily Rose, on Sept. 23, 2019.
Joseph J. Lawton Jr., B.S.’50, passed away Oct. 7, 2019. He was an attorney at the Syracuse law firm Bond, Schoeneck, and King. Edward J. O’Hara, BBA’50, passed away Sept. 7, 2019. He was the owner of O’Hara Agency, Inc., for 40 years. John J. Kost, B.A.’51, passed away Sept. 20, 2017. Joseph F. Pagano, B.A.’52, passed away Oct. 22, 2019. Edward P. McNamara, B.A.’53, passed away Sept. 1, 2019. He was a librarian at W. Tresper Clarke High School in East Meadow, N.Y., and worked at the Levittown Public Library after retiring from public schools. James C. Roth, B.A.’53, passed away May 22, 2019. He was a high school social studies teacher until his retirement in 1985.
Edward J. Roth, BBA’54, passed away Jan. 7, 2020. He worked in marketing for Uniroyal Tire and Duracell before his retirement in 1995. John J. Ford, B.S.’55, passed away Dec. 2, 2019. He served executive positions with Sears and Montgomery Ward, then joined Carlson Companies before launching his own business, JFR Marketing. Our condolences to his wife, Jane (O’Connell) Ford, B.S.’56. Thomas J. Hughes Jr., B.A.’55, passed away Nov. 21, 2018. He worked for Onondaga County Social Services until his retirement. David T. McGoldrick, M.S.Ed.’55, passed away Feb. 11, 2020. He held numerous sales and marketing positions with General Electric Co., the Samsonite Corp., and the Sunbeam Corp., retiring in 1991 as president of Northern Electric, Sunbeam Appliance, and Oster Manufacturing. John J. Torrell, B.S.’55, passed away Feb. 14, 2020. He retired in 1991 as director of probation in the Department of Probation in Newark, N.Y. Thomas J. Curry, B.A.’57, passed away Dec. 27, 2019. He had a long career with DuPont.
Dr. J. Peter McPartlon Jr., ’58, passed away Feb. 21, 2020. He founded Group Dental Practice of Schenectady and Amsterdam. Our condolences to his son, J.P. McPartlon III, B.S.’85. Robert Sawyer Jr., B.S.’58, passed away March 3, 2020. The Rev. Donald L. Measer, B.A.’59, SOLA’63, passed away March 9, 2020. He served as pastor, chaplain, and campus minister at several churches and schools throughout Western New York until his retirement in 1992, when he became priest in residence at St. Amelia’s Church in the Town of Tonawanda, N.Y.
Mae Patricia LoPresti
EAGLE/SPRING 2020
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CATCHING UP Louis Nicolucci, B.S.’60, passed away March 18, 2018. He served in the Air Force for 28 years, and then taught Air Force Junior ROTC at Oxon Hill High School in Maryland. John M. Bartello, B.A.’61, passed away Nov. 2, 2019. He was a teacher in the West Seneca, N.Y., Central School District. Michael J. O’Heaney, SOLA’62, passed away Aug. 17, 2019. He was a priest in the Albany, N.Y., diocese for nine years before working as a social worker. Walter A. Pastuszak, M.A.’63, passed away June 23, 2019. He worked as a management consultant in the insurance and pharmaceutical fields. Rocco C. Venuto, B.S.’63, passed away July 11, 2019. He was a renowned nephrologist, a physician with UBMD Internal Medicine, a professor in the Department of Medicine in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB, medical director of renal transplant and director of the chronic kidney disease program at Erie County Medical Center’s Regional Center of Excellence for Transplantation and Kidney Care. He was also co-founder of Upstate New York Transplant Services (now ConnectLife). Our condolences to his wife, Ann (Henry) Venuto, B.S.’63. Rita Klovanish, B.S.’65, passed away April 19, 2019. She was a registered nurse until her retirement from the Temple VA Hospital in Texas. Thomas G. Terhaar, B.A.’65, passed away Nov. 12, 2019. He worked for the FBI as a special agent, and later, as a special investigator. Kathleen (Murphy) MacLachlan, B.S.’66, passed away Dec. 29, 2018. She was a nurse practitioner at Syracuse University Health Services. Douglas Dornan, B.A.’67, passed away Jan. 25, 2020. He served in leadership positions with the AIDS Resource Center and the New York State Conference of Mental Hygiene Directors, and was a research scientist for the New York State Department of Mental Health. Stephen Hectus, B.A.’67, passed away Feb. 4, 2020. He was vice president of sales in the packaging industry throughout New York and New Jersey.
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Dorothy (Hagan) Black, B.S.’69, passed away Dec. 7, 2019. She had a long career in nursing education and worked at Shared Medical Systems until her retirement in 2008. Our condolences to Cynthia Bianco, M.S.Ed.’70, on the death of her mother, Celia Granto, who passed away Feb. 9, 2020.
Our condolences to Jeanine (Clark) Stender, B.S.’84; to Jeffrey Clark, B.S.’85; to Alexander Clark, BBA’87; and to Claudette (Clark) Crowley, B.S.’88, on the death of their father, Thomas L. Clark, who passed away March 5, 2020.
Our condolences to Terry McCarthy, B.A.’70, on the death of his father, Robert McCarthy, who passed away Dec. 7, 2019.
Our condolences to Rev. Dennis Holtschneider, B.A.’85, member of Niagara University’s Board of Trustees and former executive vice president/COO, on the death of his father, Otto Holtschneider, who passed away March 9, 2020.
Vincent J. Sabatino, B.S.’71, passed away Jan. 24, 2019. He had a 30-year career with Unilever.
Our condolences to Thomas Sica, B.A.’85, on the death of his mother, Jean Sica, who passed away Feb. 2, 2020.
Our condolences to the Rev. John Kettelberger, C.M., B.A.’74, on the death of his mother, Loretta Kettelberger, who passed away Nov. 25, 2019.
Our condolences to Theresa (Walsh) Langan, B.S.’86, on the death of her father, John P. Walsh, who passed away Nov. 2, 2019.
Victoria (Krishock) Crosetti, B.S.’75, passed away Jan. 22, 2020. She served as executive director of the Humane Society of the Tennessee Valley.
Our condolences to Mary Laper Marra, B.S.’86,’96, on the death of her son; to Paul Laper, B.S.’80, on the death of his nephew; and to Mary Joan (Lenhart) Laper, B.S.’53, on the death of her grandson, Michael R. Marra, who passed away Jan. 21, 2020.
Ashok Kumar, M.S.Ed.’75, passed away March 11, 2019. He was a retired physics professor at Mohawk College, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and founder of several religious and cultural societies. Thomas C. Giuliano, BBA,’76, passed away Dec. 4, 2019. He worked in finance and the car business. Our condolences to his sister, Kathy Ann Giuliano, ’78, and to his brother, Matt Giuliano, B.S.’79. Thomas J. Slaiman, M.S.Ed.’76, passed away Jan. 15, 2020. He was an elementary school teacher and principal. Our condolences to his wife, Mary Marasco-Slaiman, M.S.Ed.’95, and to his son, Richard Slaiman, M.S.’03, M.S.Ed.’17. Constance M. Holland, B.S.’77, passed away July 29, 2019. She was a nurse administrator at Wende Correctional Facility in Alden, N.Y. Our condolences to John Nanno, B.S.’80, MBA’87, on the death of his mother; and to Diane (Tefel) Nanno, B.S.’80, on the death of her mother-in-law, Alice Nanno, who passed away December 2019.
Mark J. Schuster, B.A.’86, passed away April 5, 2019. He was a commercial roofer and manager with Centimark. Our condolences to the Rev. Elmer Bauer III, C.M., B.A.’87, on the death of his sister, Bernadette Bauer, who passed away Jan. 21, 2020. Our condolences to Patricia (Lancer) Duarte, B.S.’89, on the death of her father; and to Kenneth Duarte, B.A.’90, on the death of his father-in-law, Michael J. Lancer, who passed away Jan. 30, 2020. Peter S. Fabiano, B.S.’94, passed away Oct. 28, 2019. Our condolences to his sister, Angelyn (Fabiano) Carlson, B.S.’85, and his niece, Sara Carlson, B.A.’17. Daniel C. Vogt, BBA’95, passed away Jan. 26, 2020. He was a senior finance consultant at Kaiser Permanente in Denver, Colo. Frances Gerspach, M.S.Ed.’07, passed away March 2, 2020. She was a teacher at School 61 in Buffalo, N.Y. Christopher J. Martin, B.S.’17, passed away Jan. 6, 2020. He was a computer technician.
Scholarship Established
Continued from page 17
Longtime Alumni Director
Her job also has taken her to “places where no one else will go,” she added, noting that she lost colleagues through a suicide bombing attack on a UNICEF convoy, and that she often traveled in armored vehicles, wearing a flak jacket and helmet.
in Memory of
Today, Lisa is married to Johnson Kimuyu, whom she met while on safari in Kenya and
married at Niagara University’s Alumni Chapel,
Sandra Ormsby
An endowed scholarship has been established in memory of a former Niagara University staff member who was a fervent advocate of Catholic education. The Sandra Mann Ormsby ’67 Scholarship is intended for students with financial need, with preference for children of alumni and/ or graduates of Catholic high schools, according to her husband, Linus Ormsby. “One need only be aware of Sandra’s contributions to the university over nearly three decades, and her lifelong commitment to Catholic education, to appreciate the significance of this scholarship,” said Ormsby, NU’s former director of communications and public relations. A Niagara Falls native, Sandra joined the university in 1984 as director of alumni relations, becoming the first woman to hold the position. In that capacity, she edited the university’s alumni magazine, traveled to alumni events across the country, and planned annual alumni weekend activities over a period of 19 years. In 2003, she left the alumni office to become director of university events. Over a 10-year period, she planned and organized a variety of activities, including the annual President’s Dinner, commencement activities, and academic convocations. She retired in 2013 after nearly 30 years of service. She died July 11, 2017, in Buffalo’s Erie County Medical Center of injuries sustained in a fall in her home in Lewiston. Sandra was a member of Sigma Alpha Sigma, the university’s honor society, and received NU’s Alumna-of-the-Year Award, posthumously, at Alumni Weekend in October 2017. “Sandra loved Niagara and was deeply committed to Catholic education,” said her husband. “Knowing that this scholarship will help the children of other families realize the same opportunity she had in attending Niagara would make her very proud and happy. It is truly heartwarming to have her remembered in such a meaningful way.”
and has two children, Sofia and Roman. Her current role as head of the Joint SDG Fund Secretariat for the UN—“the best I’ve ever had,” she said—has taken her out of high-risk environments and into boardrooms, meeting with CEOs, government officials, and others to gain support of and finance the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that are the foundation for the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The agenda, which was adopted by all UN member states in 2015, provides a framework to bring global equity and equality, supporting a vision of what the world should look like by 2030. “So now, I fundraise and mobilize resources
for those left behind,” Kurbiel said. “I’m putting
myself in front of pension funds and asset managers and CEOs to say, not only have I been there, I’ve held hands with mothers in Somalia who have just lost their child because there was not a doctor, not a nurse, and there wasn’t even water in the clinic. I’m hoping my position now can help me really make an impression so that they will invest in the amazing work the UN is doing.”
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The challenge, Kurbiel admits, is finding the most efficient ways to advocate for social change, and to be patient in waiting for that change to occur. “I’m raising resources to end poverty in the world, but in reality, you’re trying to align the world around what matters and what you believe in,” she said. “Every time there’s a delay, there’s girls who are being raped without a court of law, there’s kids who aren’t getting a nutritious
meal, there’s a mother who died in childbirth, so it’s all quite urgent when you see the reality.”
Despite the challenges, Kurbiel is motivated about the opportunity to show the world what the UN has and can accomplish. “The UN is doing good—we are saving lives, we are on the front line in war zones, and it matters,” she said. She added that Niagara’s Vincentian spirit “followed me into law school, and then took me to the UN. Those messages went deep for me, and I feel very blessed and privileged to work for the UN. It is an honor to serve amongst those who dedicate their lives to others.”
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REUNION WEEKEND 20 20 ALUMNI
The year for 0’s and 5’s to celebrate your class reunion. Join us for a memorable weekend of reminiscing and celebrating all that we love about Niagara University!
October 9-11, 2020
Visit www.niagara.edu/alumniweekend for the latest information!