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Students Participate in East Side Immersion

June 6, 2012


Duane Madyun, president of the Fillmore Business District Association, speaks to Canisius College students during Immersion East Side last week.

Eight Canisius College students recently participated in Immersion East Side: a two-week long Ignatian seminar designed to familiarize them with the diverse cultural, political, economic and religious environments that characterize the East Side of Buffalo. The course was taught by Michael Gent, PhD, professor of management and Devonya Havis, PhD, assistant professor of philosophy.

Students visited churches, schools, cultural and civic organizations, and met with local politicians, law enforcement and community leaders who represent the East Side of Buffalo.

“I really enjoyed the hands-on learning experience outside of the classroom,” says Celia Gotham ’13, a senior marketing major. “The community welcomed us into their energetic, faith-filled churches and neighborhoods. There is a positive side to the East Side that you don’t necessarily see on the evening news.”

“This course was incredibly informational,” adds Colleen Reiser ’13, a senior early childhood/special education dual major. “I grew up in Buffalo’s suburbs and had rarely visited the East Side, so I appreciated the opportunity to learn about the area, meet the residents and visit local programs, especially one for at-risk youth.”

On Friday, June 1, Rev. Darius Pridgen, pastor of True Bethel Baptist Church and Ellicott District Common Council Member, spoke to students and professors about the current issues which face residents of the East Side of Buffalo, including youth violence, public education and affordable housing.

Submitted by: Public Relations

Category: Faculty, Staff, Students