The Dome
Canisius Complete
As part of Canisius’ partnership with Barnes & Noble College (BNC), the university is introducing a new course material model called Canisius Complete. This program simplifies how students access their course materials, reduces costs and ensures they have everything they need before the first day of class. Canisius Complete will launch in the spring 2026 semester.
What does this mean for faculty?
Faculty will continue to have full flexibility in selecting the materials that best fit their courses, from any publisher and in any format. There are no restrictions. The only requirement is that course material selections are submitted to the bookstore by the adoption deadline, which is November 30, 2025.
What does this mean for students?
Students will no longer have to shop for their course materials a la carte. Instead, they will receive all required materials through the Canisius Complete program. Physical books can be picked up at the bookstore. Digital materials will be delivered directly to their Desire 2 Learn (D2L) account. The cost of materials will be billed directly to the student account.
To make the rollout of Canisius Complete a success, please submit your course material selections by November 30, 2025.
By ensuring students have all their required course materials from day one, they can start the semester prepared, ready to learn and set up to succeed.
Submitted by: University Communications
Canisius Alumnus Mike Buczkowski ’86 Inducted into Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame
Canisius alumnus Mike Buczkowski ’86 was inducted into the 35th annual Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at the Buffalo Convention Center.
A South Buffalo native and former captain of the Canisius hockey team, Buczkowski has built an extraordinary career in professional baseball, serving more than three decades with the Buffalo Bisons and becoming the longest-tenured general manager in the club’s history.
Now President of Rich Baseball Operations, he oversees the Bisons as well as the Northwest Arkansas Naturals and the West Virginia Black Bears, and played a pivotal role in bringing Major League Baseball and the Toronto Blue Jays to Buffalo during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors also includes two members of the Canisius community: John Maddock, board president and retired senior associate athletic director at Canisius University, and Dr. Bridget Niland, board secretary and vice president for academic affairs at Canisius University.
Submitted by University Communications
“Reacting to the Past” Game Engages Students in Building the Italian Renaissance
This fall, a Reacting to the Past activity was woven into FAH109A History of Architecture. After attending the Reacting to the Past Summer Institute at Barnard College with Dr. Jonathan Lawrence and Tyler Kron, Piatek (made possible through the generous President Innovation Fund awarded to Dr. Lawrence in the 2024-25 academic year), Professor Yvonne Widenor assigned the “Building the Italian Renaissance: Brunelleschi’s Dome and the Florence Cathedral” game to her students.
For this activity, three factions of Florentine architects, stonecutters, sculptors, carpenters, masons, goldsmiths, and humanists prepared proposals for a dome that would cover a 143-foot six-inch opening in the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral (aka the Duomo).
Each faction was led by a goldsmith or painter, and their proposals were judged by members of the l’Opera del Duomo who had overseen the construction and repairs on the Duomo and intermediates – members of the Florentine guilds who all had a stake in the project’s completion. After debating the merits of each proposal, a unanimous vote awarded the project to the Brunelleschi faction.
The students did a marvelous amount of work and demonstrated the dynamic learning environment created by these games, and Professor Widenor looks forward to including this and other games in her classes.
Pictured are the students from the Three Factions: (L-R: D’Arringo, Brunelleschi and Ghiberti)
Leveling The Playing Field Sports Gear Drive
Fall 2025 Final Exams in D2L

Final exams are fast approaching!
Here are some important dates:
- Reading Day this year is December 5
- Final exams starting December 8
- Grades are due December 17
It may also be useful to review these features of D2L Quizzes and Dropboxes.
D2L Quizzes provides a robust tool to grade quizzes easier and quicker. Some features can help prevent cheating to a degree, like basic question randomization and advanced question randomization. If you want to use questions from a previous exam or quiz, the Question Library lets you copy questions to the mid-term. Additionally, for faster grading, you can connect the Quiz to the gradebook. You can also have your students sign an Academic Integrity Pledge before continuing to the Final Exam. To help students study for the final exam, customize the Quiz Result display to show students what questions they got and see where they need to brush up on their studying.
Please note that if you allow automatic grading of your exam, D2L will not automatically grade Written Responses. Those need to be graded manually. Inform your students that the grade they have immediately after completing the exam is not reflective of their overall grade. We can add a Rubric to Written Responses for easier and faster grading. If you want to see all of the tutorials on the D2L Quiz tool that COLI has compiled, check the Online Quizzes and Exams in the Quizzes Tool Section.
D2L Dropboxes are a great way to receive student work in various formats but more notably PDFs, Microsoft Office files, JPGs or PNGs. You can also restrict the types of files the dropbox will accept. Attach the dropbox to the grade book or use a D2L Rubric and attach it to the dropbox for faster grading.
For more information on D2L Dropboxes, check out the Collecting Assignments in Dropboxes Section. For tutorials on D2L Rubrics, check out the Using Rubrics Section. If you would prefer, you can also sign up for COLI workshops or sign up for a Consultation with one of COLI’s staff members.
COLI has compiled other resources on the various tool sets in D2L. Check the D2L Self-paced Training for Faculty and Staff Wiki page.
Need plagiarism and AI Content Detection? Try out Copyleaks! Copyleaks can now be added to a D2L Dropbox or be used as a standalone activity. If needed, Copyleaks also has the Teacher Scan Tool, which allows faculty to quickly scan individual files. For more tutorials, check out the Copyleaks Wiki Page.
Thank You for a Successful Open House!
The excitement was undeniable at Fall Open House! We welcomed 169 students and their families to campus. Of those attending, 69 of them have already been admitted. Bringing a day full of energy, engagement, and Griff spirit.
Our admitted student breakfast reception was a highlight, with 47 students attending to celebrate their achievements and experience firsthand what it means to be part of the Canisius community. Academic sessions were filled, tours were busy throughout the day, and feedback from students and families was overwhelmingly positive.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible collaboration and support of our faculty, staff, and students. Your enthusiasm, hospitality, and commitment to our mission made a lasting impression on our guests, and I truly thank you for helping us showcase all that makes Canisius special.
Let’s keep this momentum going as we continue to connect with future Griffs and work together to build our Fall 2026 class. The energy you bring to these moments truly makes the difference.
With great thanks,
Sarah Calzonetti, MBA
Director of Undergraduate Admissions
Canisius in the News

Management Professor Howard Stanger, PhD, weighed in with The Buffalo News for a November 13 story about Starbucks workers striking on the popular Red Cup Day. Stanger explained that the strike came “at a time of a predictable boon in store traffic, a pressure point for which the union hopes to get the company back to the bargaining table.” Click here to read the full story.
Submitted by: University Communications
Nov. 17: Memorial Mass for Fr. Joseph Burke, SJ
Fr. Joseph Burke, SJ, passed away on September 24, 2025, at the Campion Jesuit Health Care Center in Weston, Massachusetts. A long-time member of the Loyola Hall Jesuit community, Fr. Burke served at Canisius as a professor of counseling psychology and Ignatian Spiritual Director, sharing his deep commitment to faith and education with students, faculty, and staff. His decades of ministry in Buffalo and New York City reflected a lifelong dedication to service, spirituality, and friendship.
All who knew Fr. Burke are invited to join his friends and colleagues for this Mass of Remembrance.
Monday, November 17 at 7:15 p.m. | Christ the King Chapel.
[Click here to read more about the life and legacy of Fr. Burke, SJ.]
Nov. 17: Mission Forum Presentation
Faculty and staff are invited to attend a presentation on the University’s Mission, led by Assistant Vice President for Mission Integration Spencer Liechty. Topics to be discussed include the personnel, function and activities of the Office of Mission and Ministry, the Jesuits USA East Apostolic Plan and Universal Apostolic Preferences, and the upcoming Mission Priority Examen.
The Mission Forum will take place on Monday, Nov. 17, at 3 p.m. in Grupp Fireside Lounge.
Hope to see you there!
Submitted by Spencer Liechty, AVP for Mission Integration
Fall 2025 Final Exams in D2L
Final exams are fast approaching!
Here are some important dates:
- Reading Day this year is December 5
- Final exams starting December 8
- Grades are due December 17
It may also be useful to review these features of D2L Quizzes and Dropboxes.
D2L Quizzes provides a robust tool to grade quizzes easier and quicker. Some features can help prevent cheating to a degree, like basic question randomization and advanced question randomization. If you want to use questions from a previous exam or quiz, the Question Library lets you copy questions to the mid-term. Additionally, for faster grading, you can connect the Quiz to the gradebook. You can also have your students sign an Academic Integrity Pledge before continuing to the Final Exam. To help students study for the final exam, customize the Quiz Result display to show students what questions they got and see where they need to brush up on their studying.
Please note that if you allow automatic grading of your exam, D2L will not automatically grade Written Responses. Those need to be graded manually. Inform your students that the grade they have immediately after completing the exam is not reflective of their overall grade. We can add a Rubric to Written Responses for easier and faster grading. If you want to see all of the tutorials on the D2L Quiz tool that COLI has compiled, check the Online Quizzes and Exams in the Quizzes Tool Section.
D2L Dropboxes are a great way to receive student work in various formats but more notably PDFs, Microsoft Office files, JPGs or PNGs. You can also restrict the types of files the dropbox will accept. Attach the dropbox to the grade book or use a D2L Rubric and attach it to the dropbox for faster grading.
For more information on D2L Dropboxes, check out the Collecting Assignments in Dropboxes Section. For tutorials on D2L Rubrics, check out the Using Rubrics Section. If you would prefer, you can also sign up for COLI workshops or sign up for a Consultation with one of COLI’s staff members.
COLI has compiled other resources on the various tool sets in D2L. Check the D2L Self-paced Training for Faculty and Staff Wiki page.
Need plagiarism and AI Content Detection? Try out Copyleaks! Copyleaks can now be added to a D2L Dropbox or be used as a standalone activity. If needed, Copyleaks also has the Teacher Scan Tool, which allows faculty to quickly scan individual files. For more tutorials, check out the Copyleaks Wiki Page.
Hypothes.is for Social Annotation
Looking to make AI-resistant discussions? Or simply want to make sure that students have read an article or YouTube video? Or want to use something a little more interesting than a Discussion board? Hypothes.is may be what we are looking for!
Hypothes.is is a Social Annotation tool that allows students and instructors to comment on a document right in the margins or on a video transcript. We can use PDFs uploaded to D2L or uploaded to Google Drive, documents directly from JSTOR, or even YouTube transcripts.
We can even have students comment in groups by creating D2L Groups and making the appropriate selection when we create they Hypothes.is Assignment.
Additionally, we can grade assignments manually or automatically grade assignments based on participation.
Check out the Hypothes.is Wiki page for more details.
D2L: Add Rubrics to Written Response Questions
In a D2L Quiz, if we use the Written Response question type, we can add a rubric for easier and faster grading of those questions.
Here are the steps:
- In the quiz editor, click on Create New> New Question>Written Response.
- Add the writing prompt. Then, click on Add Rubric.
- Select either Create New to create a new rubric or click on Add Existing to use a rubric we created previously. In either case, follow the on-screen prompts
- Tip: If we want to hide the rubric from students so they cannot see it during the exam, make sure to select the appropriate option under the Options section in the Rubric Editor. We recommend the “Rubric is hidden from students until feedback is published” OR selecting “Rubric is hidden from students” and selecting the checkbox underneath, “Include rubric feedback in overall feedback”.
- When we have selected the Rubric, it will appear under the question options and under the question preview (if we chose not to hide the rubric from students).
- Finish making any other adjustments to the question and click on Save.
For more information, check out the D2L: Add a Rubric to Written Responses in Quizzes Wiki page. For other D2L tutorials, see the D2L Self-Paced Tutorials for Faculty and Staff Wiki page.
Canisius Wins Top Honors at NYS Higher Ed Conference
The Canisius University Higher Education Leadership and Administration (HELA) Program brought home major awards from the annual New York State College Student Personnel Association (CSPA-NYS) Conference, held this year in Schenectady, NY. The conference theme, “Currents of Change: Energizing Equity and Inclusion in Higher Education,” celebrated innovation, collaboration and leadership for the future of higher education administration.
The Canisius team earned first place in the Esther Lloyd-Jones Case Study Competition, besting a series of competitive teams from both public and private colleges and universities across New York State.

The winning team (above) included Ida Segmüller ’24, MSEd ’27; Jadyn Moriarty MSEd ’27; and Jaquoi Dorsett MSEd ’27.
The annual case study competition challenges graduate students to analyze a complex and timely issue facing higher education. Teams receive the case on-site at the conference and have just 24 hours to develop and deliver a research-informed, strategic, student-centered response. Their presentations are made before a panel of senior higher education executives—including vice presidents and deans from institutions across the state—who evaluate each team on their critical thinking, innovation, and professionalism.

In addition to the team victory, Jenna Quinn MSEd ’26 (pictured left) was named the Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year at the CSPA-NYS Annual Association Awards Luncheon.
This prestigious award recognizes a graduate student pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in higher education in New York State who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement, service and leadership to their institution.
Click here to read the full story.
Submitted by: Mark Harrington, EdD, associate professor and graduate program director of Higher Education Leadership and Administration
New Student Art Gallery Opens This Week!
ArtsCanisius welcomes our campus community to the wonderful student art gallery in the Student Center! The newly created gallery space is located on the second floor next to the Art Club office and features projects created this semester by students in FAH109A History of Architecture this semester.
The exhibit title is “If We Build it, They Will Come (to Worship).” These creations in LEGO were part of a in-class assignment where student groups were asked to design ritual spaces based on the examples discussed in the first part of the semester. Using their knowledge of Prehistoric, ancient Near Eastern, Egyptian, Minoan, Mycenaean, Greek, Roman, and Mauryan Indian examples, student created dynamic enclosures with architectural features similar to those seen in Çatalhöyük, Dur Sharrukin, Knossos, Athens, Sanchi, and Rome.
If you know of any current students who might want to install their work in the student gallery, please ask them to contact Yvonne Widenor, Director of ArtsCanisius at widenory@canisius.edu
Encourage Your Students to “Free Their Minds” for Finals 🧠✨
Encourage your students to take a one-hour break that could make a big difference for finals week. Acclaimed speaker Emily Gay will lead a dynamic session on breaking free from destructive thoughts and unlocking a focused, confident mindset—just in time for finals. Faculty are encouraged to attend as well. Enjoy free food, drinks, and merch giveaways. Hosted by Professor Mary Owusu’s IMC Masterclass students.
📅 Thursday, Nov. 13 | 5–6 PM | Blue & Gold Café (under Palisano Pavilion)
🍕 Free food, drinks, and merch
👉 Sign up here so we have enough food for everyone: masterclasslinks.com/free
Clean Mobility Project Brings New Bike Racks to Campus
The members of the Clean Mobility Project announce the installation of five beautiful U-shaped bike racks on campus courtesy of the East Side Bike Club. Our campus’ role as an anchor institution in the project has made these bike racks possible, and we are grateful for the members of Go Buffalo Niagara who installed them and the East Side Bike Club for providing them. These racks pictured below are located outside Bosch Hall (quad side), outside both main entrances to Science Hall (off Jefferson Avenue and Main Street), and outside the Main Street entrance to the KAC.
Learn more about the outstanding support the East Side Bike Club offers bicyclists of all ages and abilities HERE and stay tuned for news of the installation of a bike repair station soon.
For any questions about the Clean Mobility Project, kindly email Yvonne Widenor at widenory@canisius.edu
Student Life Paraprofessional Info Sessions (RAs/OLs): Recommendations Needed
We need your help!
The Office of Student Life is hosting several informational sessions about the application process for Resident Assistants (RAs) and Orientation Leaders (OLs), now being labeled “Student Life Paraprofessionals.”
If you have students that you think would make great candidates, please encourage them to attend an info session, which are mandatory in order to receive the application! If you wish to remain anonymous, you can also fill out this recommendation form so we can contact the student(s) directly! There will be a last chance, virtual info session in January for transfer students and anyone that missed an in person session. All attendees will be entered into a raffle for $100 in GriffChoice, given to two winners, and they can register on GriffConnect today! See the flyer for more details.
Note: the 11/20 info session immediately follows the Thanksgiving sit-down!
January: Save the date for 2026 Winter Faculty Development Week
Mark your calendars for the upcoming 2026 Winter Faculty Development Week (WFDW) to be held Jan. 5-8!
Sessions include:
- Navigating Navigate360 with Dr. Maura Snyder, Assistant Professor, Communication, Faculty Fellow, Office of Academic Affairs
- How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Hypothesis with Dr. Shyam Sriram, Political Science
- Utilizing AI in Intro Humanities Classes: Some Initial Findings with Christopher Lee, Assoc. Prof., Department of Religious Studies and Theology
- and more!
Check The Dome and the COLI Blog for more details as we get closer to the event date!
Interested in presenting on a topic? Fill out the 2026 WFDW Session Information Form or contact Dr. Marya Grande (grandem@canisius.edu) or Tyler Kron-Piatek (kronpiat@canisius.edu).
First-Generation Celebration – Call For Voices
Are you a first-generation student, faculty or staff? We want to hear from you!
In preparation for our upcoming First-Generation Celebration, we are gathering stories and reflections from our first-generation students, faculty and staff.
If you identify as a first-generation member of our community, we invite you to share your voice by completing the short survey linked below. Your experiences and perspectives will help us highlight and celebrate the strength, resilience and accomplishments of first-generation individuals across our campus.
Thank you for helping us honor and uplift the first-generation experience.

Thanksgiving Sit-Down Volunteers Needed for Nov. 20
Every year Student Life hosts the annual Thanksgiving Sit-Down, an event where the faculty/staff volunteer their time to serve our students a Thanksgiving dinner.
We are seeking volunteer servers for this year’s dinner on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 4:30-7:00 p.m. in the dining hall.
To sign-up for a shift please CLICK HERE.
Any questions please contact Jason Francey, franceyj@canisius.edu
Canisius Grad Hits His Career Sweet Spot at Marucci and Victus
Learn how Ryan Weiss MS ’23 transformed his passion for baseball into a career with top industry leaders Marucci and Victus Sports.
Through Canisius University’s Sport Product Development master’s program, he gained hands-on experience and the connections needed to break into the field. His journey shows how the right program can turn a love for the game into a profession.
Click HERE to read the story.
Upcoming Student Musical Performances
Experience the talent and energy of Canisius student musicians this season. From lively jazz to inspiring orchestral and choral works, our students take the stage to showcase their artistry and hard work. Explore the schedule below and join us for an evening of live music:
Friday, November 21 – Jazz Ensemble
Directed by Russell Scarbrough
7:30 PM | Montante Cultural Center
Sunday, November 23 – Chamber Orchestra
Directed by Ansgarius Aylward
7:30 PM | Montante Cultural Center
Monday, December 1 – Chorale
Directed by Bradley Wingert
7:30 PM | Montante Cultural Center
Mark your calendar and support our student performers as they bring their passion for music to the Canisius stage.
All dates, times, artists and programs are subject to change.
Submitted by University Communications
Nov. 13: Fall Yoga Flow Series
Rest and recharge!
Take a mindful break and move with us in Upper Palisano!
Next session:
Thursday, Nov. 13
Each session is led by Dr. Robinson and run from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Flow through seated and standing poses designed to help you unwind, reset, and refocus.
Please bring your own mat (a limited number will be available on site).
Sponsored by Sociology, Environmental Studies and USA Sustainability Committee
Nov. 17: Mission Forum Presentation
Faculty and staff are invited to attend a presentation on the University’s Mission, led by Assistant Vice President for Mission Integration Spencer Liechty. Topics to be discussed include the personnel, function and activities of the Office of Mission and Ministry, the Jesuits USA East Apostolic Plan and Universal Apostolic Preferences, and the upcoming Mission Priority Examen.
The Mission Forum will take place on Monday, Nov. 17, at 3 p.m. in Grupp Fireside Lounge.
Hope to see you there!
Submitted by Spencer Liechty, AVP for Mission Integration
Meet the Bias Resource and Response Team
Canisius University is committed to a campus culture of respect, inclusion, and care for all members of the community.
Guided by our Jesuit values, this commitment reflects the university’s dedication to cura personalis, care for the whole person. Central to this commitment is the Bias Resource and Response Team (BRRT), a university committee devoted to campus-wide education and the promotion of best practices involving institutional and individual violations of the university’s policies and values.
Sierra Bonerb, Director, Support Services, Griff Center
Sarah Blakely-McClure, Assistant Professor, Psychology
Audrey Browka, Director, Public Relations
Corey Damon, Assistant Professor, Chemistry & Biochemistry
Jeannette Delaney, Associate Director, Undergraduate Admissions
Secil Ertorer, Associate Professor & Chair, Sociology/Criminal Justice/Environmental Studies
Byung-Jay Kahng, Professor & Chair, Mathematics & Statistics
Aimee Larson, Director & Chair, Physician Assistant Program
Monika McFoy, Associate Dean of Students/Director of the Multicultural Student Center
Mark Piatkowski, Associate Director, Student Life
Jennifer Trillizio-Smith, Clinical Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Studies
Canisius in the News

The Buffalo News and WBEN-AM Radio 930 reported on Canisius University receiving a $1 million HECap matching grant from New York State. The funding will support the second phase of renovations to Old Main, the university’s primary academic building, modernizing classrooms and collaborative spaces with state-of-the-art technology. Work is scheduled to begin in spring 2026.
Submitted by: University Communications
Nov. 14 Faculty Lunch and Learn: Dye Sublimation

Join the maker space for a hands-on Faculty Lunch and Learn session featuring Dye Sublimation, a creative technique that allows you to transfer full-color designs onto fabric and other suitable materials.
Date: Friday, Nov. 14
Time: Noon to 1 PM
Location: Old Main 401
During this session, you will:
- Learn how dye sublimation works and what makes it unique
- Experiment with real equipment in the Makerspace
- Opportunity to create your own custom dye-sublimation T-shirt
While we do have some shirts available, it is recommended that you bring your own light-colored apparel. Minimum 60% polyester, although a higher percentage is preferable.
Below are some links to T-shirts and products that would work with dye sublimation:
Threadsy 100% Polyester Shirts
Real Essentials 100% Polyester 5 Pack
Coastal Business Supplies has a variety of apparel suitable for dye sublimation
Coastal Business Supplies also has plenty of other items suitable for dye sublimation!
Interested? Register via GriffConnect!
#MadeAtCanisiusUniversity
Submitted by Tyler Kron-Piatek, Instructional Designer, COLI
Join the Multicultural Friendsgiving Potluck on Wednesday, Nov. 19
Dear Canisius Colleagues,
The Multicultural Center and Campus Ministry are hosting a Multicultural Friendsgiving Potluck on Wednesday, Nov. 19, from 5 to 7 PM in Grupp to celebrate the diverse cultures we have on campus through food, gratitude, and community. We are looking for participants to bring a dish to pass, joining several students and student groups who will be cooking cultural-specific dishes. The aim is to share dishes that are important to you and your family: If you could bring a dish to share with your family, what would it be?
Additionally, we are collecting donations for Petey’s Pantry, as food insecurity in the United States is increasing with the suspension of several federally-funded programs. In line with the Jesuit tenets of Cura Personalis, we hope to support all through these uncertain times. The items Petey’s Pantry is looking for can be found via Petey’s Pantry Website.
DEADLINE: If you are interested in participating to bring a dish to pass, please complete this form by Friday, November 14 Multicultural Friendsgiving Potluck.
With love,
The Multicultural Center and Campus Ministry
Canisius Secures $1M Grant to Modernize Old Main

Canisius University is the recipient of a $1 million Higher Education Capital (HECap) matching grant from the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). The funding will support the second phase of renovations to Old Main, the university’s primary academic building, modernizing classrooms and collaborative spaces with state-of-the-art technology. Work is scheduled to begin in spring 2026.
Canisius began modernizing Old Main last summer by converting former administrative offices into state-of-the-art hybrid-flexible (HyFlex) learning labs. Completed for the start of the fall 2025 semester, these first-floor classrooms feature modular furniture, interactive whiteboards and advanced audiovisual systems that foster collaboration and active student engagement.
Phase 2 of the renovation project will create 15 HyFlex classrooms and three collaborative study spaces on the upper floors of Old Main. These classrooms, like those on the first floor, will include mobile furniture, interactive whiteboards and advanced audiovisual systems. Additionally, they will be equipped with technology that enables students to participate in person, live online or asynchronously, allowing Canisius to expand its program offerings for both traditional students and adult learners.
Click here to learn more.
Submitted by: University Communications
Meet The Newest Faculty Members
We invite you to get to know the newest members of our Canisius University faculty!
This fall, several talented educators joined our campus community, bringing fresh perspectives, diverse expertise and a shared commitment to student success.
Many of our new faculty participated in the New Faculty Orientation held in August and continue to connect through monthly meet-ups with Yvonne Widenor, fellow in Academic Affairs.
We’re grateful for the energy and insight they bring to our classrooms and campus life — and look forward to seeing them at upcoming university events.
Read on to meet the new faculty members who are helping shape the Canisius experience:

Canisius in the News

The Buffalo News editorial board commended Canisius University and the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) for a new partnership that provides students with free, unlimited access to buses and Metro Rail routes. The new initiative “is a chance for students who do not have cars to get sustainable lifts to and from classes,” reads the editorial. “It also encourages students to explore beyond campus borders.”
Click here to read the editorial.
Submitted by: University Communications
In Memoriam: Emeritus Professor Frank Riga, PhD

Canisius University is saddened to report on the passing of Frank P. Riga, PhD. The emeritus professor of English died on October 19, 2025.
Riga devoted his career to Canisius, teaching 19th century British literature, Shakespeare and children’s literature in the English Department. He also served as director of the Graduate Scholarship Office for many years, supporting students in their academic pursuits.
Outside the classroom, Riga’s research spanned from Shakespeare to C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, with articles appearing in numerous scholarly journals. He also became widely recognized as an expert on Santa Claus and gift-giving traditions across cultures. In retirement, Riga continued writing and publishing. He authored Beppo: A Calabrian Tale in 2017 and Beppo’s America: An Immigrant Tale in 2018, both inspired by his Italian roots. Later in 2018, Riga published Frank’s Christmas Book, in which he shared essays on Christmas traditions, blending his academic expertise with personal reflection.
Riga was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann, and his son, Joseph. He is survived by four children.
Submitted by: University Communications
Christ the King Chapel Community Celebrates All Souls Day

The Christ the King Chapel community hosted an All Souls Day Mass and brunch this past Sunday, Nov. 2, at Loyola Hall. All Souls Day is a time to remind the Christian faithful that they are in communion with all who have gone before them.
Nearly 100 members of the campus community and alumni attended the Mass, with many staying afterward to share brunch and fellowship. Several families who submitted names for the chapel’s memorial tree were also present. Father Betti gives special thanks to Mary Ellen and Nicole for their help in organizing and processing the memorial names.



Volunteers Needed for the Thanksgiving Sit-Down on Nov. 20
Every year Student Life hosts the annual Thanksgiving Sit-Down, an event where the faculty/staff volunteer their time to serve our students a Thanksgiving dinner.
We are seeking volunteer servers for this year’s dinner on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 4:30-7:00 p.m. in the dining hall.
To sign-up for a shift please CLICK HERE.
Any questions please contact Jason Francey, franceyj@canisius.edu
Nov. 6: Campus Notice – 7th Annual High School Model United Nations Conference
On Thursday, Nov. 6, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., the International Relations Program will welcome over 400 students from numerous area high schools to campus for the 47th Annual High School Model United Nations Conference.
Student delegates will represent countries from around the world to discuss, debate, and formulate resolutions on pressing issues of the day.
Please be mindful that there will be a significant number of young people on campus, particularly in Science Hall Commons, Student Center (Grupp, Regis, and the Dining Hall), the 2nd floor of Churchill Tower, and Montante. We thank you in advance for showing hospitality to our guests, and welcoming them to our campus.
Please take special care when driving in the area particularly from 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. as there may be student delegates and school busses doing drop off and pick up. Please also note that parking will be impacted.
Student volunteers from Canisius University will moderate and adjudicate the proceedings, which challenge participants to learn rules of parliamentary procedure as well as information about specific countries’ positions on controversial international issues. Our volunteer staff is largely drawn from our student club, the Model UN Diplomacy Organization (MUNDO).
The International Relations Program thanks the Canisius University staff (including events management, public safety, dining services, admissions, and especially Julie Marzolf, Rachel Lapinski and Nurul Abdul Salam for their invaluable assistance). Thanks also to our hardworking student volunteers for making this stimulating and educational experience possible for our guests.
Nov. 9: Acrobatics and Tumbling Hosts First Ever Clinic
Nov. 20: AI Webinar from eLearning Industry
Honeywell Commits to Chemistry Olympiad

On Wednesday, October 29, representatives from Honeywell Inc. visited Canisius to present Dr. Phil Sheridan and Kristina Marohn with a check for $10,000 to sponsor the Chemistry Olympiad.
The funds will be used to offset costs associated with students’ preparation and participation in the Western New York Chapter of the International Chemistry Olympiad. The Chemistry Olympiad is a local, national and international competition designed to stimulate and promote achievement in high school chemistry. It is sponsored nationally by the American Chemical Society and hosted locally by Canisius University.
Honeywell’s Buffalo Research Lab has supported the Western New York Chapter of the International Chemistry Olympiad for more than 20 years and has donated an estimated $260,000 in support of this initiative since 2002.
Submitted by: Sandy Miller, assistant vice president, External Relations
First-Generation Celebration – Call For Voices
Are you a first-generation student, faculty or staff? We want to hear from you!
In preparation for our upcoming First-Generation Celebration, we are gathering stories and reflections from our first-generation students, faculty and staff.
If you identify as a first-generation member of our community, we invite you to share your voice by completing the short survey linked below. Your experiences and perspectives will help us highlight and celebrate the strength, resilience and accomplishments of first-generation individuals across our campus.
Thank you for helping us honor and uplift the first-generation experience.
For the Love of Whales

Christina Perazio, PhD, assistant professor in the Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation (ABEC) and Anthrozoology programs at Canisius University, recently attended the Humpback Whale World Congress, an international gathering dedicated to whale and ocean conservation.

Dr. Perazio traveled with Canisius alumna Gina Maduri ’24 (ABEC) to Tadoussac, Quebec, where the Saguenay Fjord meets the St. Lawrence River, to join scientists, policy makers, conservation leaders, science communicators, educators, artists, and students for five days of learning, collaboration, problem-solving — and, of course, whale watching.
At the conference, Dr. Perazio delivered a presentation highlighting her 12 years of research on humpback whales in the Gulf of Tribugá, Colombia, conducted in partnership with the nonprofit Macuáticos Colombia. Her talk explored how scientific research can be transformed into community education and engagement, strengthening local conservation efforts and inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards.

The Humpback Whale World Congress unites experts and advocates under a shared mission: protecting whales and the marine ecosystems they depend on. Through collaboration across disciplines — from policy and research to art and education — participants aim to foster global action for ocean conservation.
Submitted by: Richard Bailey, PhD, associate dean, School of Arts & Social Sciences
Students Explore Ethical Animal Care at Farm Sanctuary

Students from the Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation (ABEC) and Anthrozoology programs at Canisius University visited the Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen, NY, on October 25. The visit was led by Chirantana Mathkari, PhD, assistant professor of ABEC and anthrozoology, and Joshua Russell, PhD, associate dean of the School of Natural Sciences and professor of ABEC and anthrozoology.
Located on 275 acres, Farm Sanctuary is home to nearly 400 rescued farm animals including cows, pigs, sheep, and turkeys, and is dedicated to rescue, education and advocacy that advance animal welfare, environmental sustainability and social justice through its One Wellbeing philosophy.
During the visit, students toured the sanctuary’s barns and learned about the daily care, management and rescue histories of the animals. They also observed the compassionate relationships between the animals and staff, as well as the animals’ natural behaviors and social interactions. Many students had the opportunity to engage directly with the animals, receiving gentle nudges, neck rubs and even purr-like sounds of affection from cows, pigs and sheep.
Click here to read more.
East West Community Garden Marks Another Successful Season

Canisius recently marked the close of another successful growing season at the East/West Community Garden, a partnership between the university and its surrounding community.
Established in 2018, the garden provides neighborhood residents with the opportunity to grow fresh, nutritious food and serves as a welcoming green space for relaxation and gatherings that bring together both campus and neighborhood communities.
In addition to its garden plots, the East/West Community Garden features natural growth areas filled with wildflowers, trees and native plants, creating an urban refuge for pollinators and other wildlife.
The garden includes 14 rectangular and four smaller raised beds, all of which were actively used this year—with a wait list already forming for next season.

For the past two years, half of the beds have been maintained by individual community members, while the remaining beds have been cultivated by Groundwork Buffalo, an organization that employs local youth to grow produce donated to the community.
Sustaining activity at the garden has relied heavily on the work of dedicated volunteers, including Canisius faculty, staff and students, as well as neighborhood residents. Their ongoing efforts, coupled with growing recognition of the garden’s impact, have led to several important milestones this year.
Thanks to the support of Bridget Niland, PhD, vice president for academic affairs, and the quick work of Joe Snodgrass and the facilities team, a new water line was extended from the Delavan Townhouses to a spigot at the garden. Since the garden’s inception, limited water access had been one of its greatest challenges. This new permanent source ensures the sustainability of gardening for years to come.

Additionally, Dr. Daniel Haeusser, associate professor of biology, was awarded a Kelly Fellowship to expand garden infrastructure, enhance programming and foster deeper community involvement. These investments underscore Canisius University’s commitment to social justice, service to others and sustainability. Partnerships such as the one with Groundwork Buffalo continue to strengthen the university’s connection to the broader Buffalo community.
Announcements of spring and fall 2026 events will be shared in the coming months, including collaborations with Arts Canisius and other campus and local groups.
The East/West Community Garden is located at 1032 Lafayette Avenue. Those interested in participating in upcoming activities or exploring partnership opportunities are encouraged to contact Dr. Katie Costanzo (costanz4@canisius.edu) or Dr. Daniel Haeusser (haeussed@canisius.edu).
Submitted by: Richard Bailey, associate dean, School of Arts & Social Sciences
Petey’s Pantry Expands Support for Canisius Students

Petey’s Pantry, Canisius University’s on-campus food pantry, continues to be a vital resource for students by providing free food and essentials.
By introducing online donations and an Amazon wishlist, the pantry is expanding its impact and giving the campus community even more ways to help fight student food insecurity
Support helps keep shelves stocked and ensures students have consistent access to nutritious meals and personal care products throughout the year.
Read the full story here.
Nov. 17: Mission Forum Presentation
Faculty and staff are invited to attend a presentation on the University’s Mission, led by Assistant Vice President for Mission Integration Spencer Liechty. Topics to be discussed include the personnel, function and activities of the Office of Mission and Ministry, the Jesuits USA East Apostolic Plan and Universal Apostolic Preferences, and the upcoming Mission Priority Examen.
The Mission Forum will take place on Monday, Nov. 17, at 3 p.m. in Grupp Fireside Lounge.
Hope to see you there!
Matt Gracie Named Security Leader of the Year

Matt Gracie, interim director of the graduate program in cybersecurity, was named Security Leader of the Year at the 25th annual BETAS (Buffalo Emerging Technology Awards Showcase). The BETAS celebrate excellence and innovation across Western New York’s technology community. This year’s event recognized leaders and organizations shaping the future of the region’s tech ecosystem. Gracie was honored for his outstanding contributions to cybersecurity education, defense and community engagement.
In addition to serving as interim director of cybersecurity, Gracie is an adjunct professor in the program, teaching courses on network security, cybersecurity operations and ethical hacking. He also plays an active role in strengthening the region’s cybersecurity community. Gracie is lead organizer of Infosec 716, a monthly meetup for security professionals and enthusiasts, and BSides Buffalo, a regional information security conference that promotes collaboration and knowledge-sharing among practitioners.
Click here to learn more.
Submitted by: University Communications
Campus Notice: 47th Annual High School Model United Nations Conference – Nov. 6
On Thursday, November 6, from 7 am to 4 pm, the International Relations Program will welcome over 400 students from numerous area high schools to campus for the 47th Annual High School Model United Nations Conference. Student delegates will represent countries from around the world to discuss, debate, and formulate resolutions on pressing issues of the day.
Please be mindful that there will be a significant number of young people on campus, particularly in Science Hall Commons, Student Center (Grupp, Regis, and the Dining Hall), the 2nd floor of Churchill Tower, and Montante. We thank you in advance for showing hospitality to our guests, and welcoming them to our campus.
Please take special care when driving in the area particularly from 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. as there may be student delegates and school busses doing drop off and pick up. Please also note that parking will be impacted.
Student volunteers from Canisius University will moderate and adjudicate the proceedings, which challenge participants to learn rules of parliamentary procedure as well as information about specific countries’ positions on controversial international issues. Our volunteer staff is largely drawn from our student club, the Model UN Diplomacy Organization (MUNDO).
The International Relations Program thanks the Canisius University staff (including events management, public safety, dining services, admissions, and especially Julie Marzolf, Rachel Lapinski and Nurul Abdul Salam for their invaluable assistance). Thanks also to our hardworking student volunteers for making this stimulating and educational experience possible for our guests.
Students Raise Awareness for Breast and Other Cancers on Campus
PHOTO: From left to right pictured are Ella Pirrami ’29, Briana DeGlopper ’29, and Airella Rogers ’29
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Canisius University freshman Briana DeGlopper ’29 organized a breast cancer awareness tabling event on Thursday, October 16, in the Richard E. Winter Student Center. The event aimed to educate students about breast cancer prevention and early detection while encouraging the Canisius community to show support for cancer survivors and those still fighting the disease.
“Cancer is a disease that haunts my heart,” said DeGlopper. “Watching a loved one deteriorate in front of you from an incurable disease alters your life forever. I lost two grandparents to cancer within months of each other.”
To prepare for the event, DeGlopper and a group of supportive friends created pink ribbons and gathered materials to share with students, including bracelets, stickers, and informational resources about breast cancer and other forms of cancer. The response from the Canisius community was overwhelmingly positive.
“Many individuals who stopped by shared that they currently know or knew someone affected by cancer and were touched by the gesture,” she said. “It has warmed my heart walking around campus seeing students and staff wearing the pink ribbons and bracelets.”
DeGlopper hopes the event reminded her peers that small actions—like wearing pink or sharing information—can have a lasting impact. “I hope this event inspires our community to show their support for cancer survivors and those still fighting cancer. Wearing these pink ribbons and bracelets is a small way we can all show our dedication to those who have lost their lives to this awful disease.”
Raising awareness among young women was also an important goal. “It’s important for young women to learn about breast cancer because it can affect them at a young age, contrary to popular belief,” she explained. “Awareness helps young women recognize risk factors and take steps toward early detection.”
DeGlopper’s motivation is deeply personal and rooted in optimism. “I want young girls like me to feel confident in recognizing early signs and to know that there is always hope,” she said. “I live by Mahatma Gandhi’s words, ‘Be the change you wish to see in the world,’ and remind myself every day that I am capable of positively impacting the world around me.”

Students who visited the table were also invited to write messages of encouragement on pink Post-it notes. These heartfelt notes were distributed at the Breast Cancer Walk at Buffalo Outer Harbor on Saturday, October 18. “The Post-it notes were a beautiful gesture showing Canisius students’ support for cancer fighters and survivors, as well as a way to remember those who have lost their lives,” DeGlopper shared.
DeGlopper expressed gratitude to those who helped make the event possible. She thanked Daeshyon Riley ’26, public health committee chair, for playing a vital role in coordinating the event, Sophia Mulé ’29, vice speaker, for her support and friendship and Airella Rogers ’29 who helped set up the table’s display, and contributed to the event’s welcoming atmosphere. And finally, Ella Pirrami ’29 created the breast cancer awareness sign and handed out Post-it notes—a contribution made especially meaningful as her mom is currently battling ovarian cancer.
Looking ahead, DeGlopper hopes to expand future health awareness events on campus. “I learned that far more people are personally affected by cancer than most realize,” she said. “I hope to do more initiatives in the future on a larger scale.”
Reminder: Daylight Saving Time Ends This Weekend
Time ‘falls back’ one hour this weekend, so enjoy the bonus time!
Campus will feel a little brighter in the mornings, but the sun will also set earlier—so stay alert and be safe when walking or driving after dark.
Copyleaks: AI Content Detection Sensitivity Settings
Copyleaks offers three different “levels” of sensitivity for AI Content Detection Scanning:
- Level 1: The most basic (and, likely, most inaccurate) and fastest scan level. This level only detects content that is directly copied and pasted from AI, without any edits.
- Level 2 (this is currently the default): This is the middle-of-the-road as far as speed and accuracy. It is able to detect AI generated content that has been somewhat modified.
- Level 3: This level provides the most thorough scanning but also takes the longest. It is able to detect AI content that has been edited (i.e., such as being sent through a paraphraser or humanizer) and/or manually edited.
Keep in mind that, no matter what level is selected, no AI Scanning tool is 100% correct. Follow your intuition. For further tips, please review the AI Resources for Faculty Research Guide and these following guides:
Wikipedia: Signs of AI writing. (2025). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wikipedia:Signs_of_AI_writing&oldid=1317046286
- This Wikipedia article outlines how to determine signs of AI Writing. It provides in-depth examples on the words, phrases, tones, and more, that AI’s use. Check out the references for scholarly articles referenced in the entry.
Copyleaks. AI Best Practices Guide (2025). https://help.copyleaks.com/s/article/AIBestPracticesGuide681cc74e64fe2
- Copyleaks, an Plagiarism and AI Content Detection tool, provides a guide where they discuss some useful tips on what to do with positive scan results.
We can change the sensitivity level in the Scan Settings for Copyleaks. See the Copyleaks: Change AI Content Detection Sensitivity Settings Wiki page for more details.
Please note that Copyleaks currently does not offer a way to re-scan documents (except for failed scans). If we want to change the AI Sensitivity Level, we will need to download any documents submitted before we made the change. Then, use the Teacher Scan Tool (make sure to change the AI Content Detection Sensitivity!) to scan the document again (keeping in mind that the plagiarism detection score will be very high due to the document being scanned previously).
See the Copyleaks Wiki page for more information on Copyleaks.
Questions or comments? Email ITS Helpdesk at helpdesk@canisius.edu.
D2L: Updated Reset Quiz Attempt Tutorial
D2L allows us to reset (i.e., delete) a students quiz attempt. This could be for a number of reasons, such as they accessed the quiz too early or simply technology issues.
The short version:
- Go to the Quizzes tab.
- From there, we go to the Grade screen of the quiz with the attempt we want to reset.
- We then find the student with the attempt we want to delete.
- Click the checkbox to the left of the attempt. Select Delete near the top.
The more detailed version can be found on the D2L: Reset a Quiz Attempt Wiki page.
See the D2L Self-Paced Training for Faculty and Staff Wiki page for more information and/or feel free to check out the Faculty and Staff Development Opportunities Wiki page for hands-on tutorials.
Have other questions or comments? Contact ITS Helpdesk at helpdesk@canisius.edu.
Nov. 2 and Nov. 10: Copyleaks Maintenance and AI Detector Update
Copyleaks will be doing further server-side maintenance on Sunday, Nov. 2. This maintenance will start at midnight (12 a.m.) and end at 8:00 a.m. Copyleaks will be unavailable/unable to process submissions during this time. For further details, please view the maintenance notification and/or check to see if Copyleaks is up. Please plan accordingly.
In addition, Copyleaks will update their AI Detector on Monday, Nov. 10. On this day, there may be differences in the AI Detection scores compared to previous detections. If instructors used a particular threshold in their policies, it may be a good idea to revisit them.
Nov. 4: Wegmans Flu Shot Clinic
Once again, Wegmans pharmacists will be on-site providing flu shots.
When: Tuesday, November 4.
Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm.
Where: Canisius University Science Hall Atrium.
Walk-ins accepted. Appointments preferred. Come with insurance information.
Nov. 5: IMPACT Center Monthly Grant Group Meet-Up
Join the Monthly Grant Group Meet-Up hosted by the IMPACT Center. These informal sessions are a chance to learn from others’ experiences, share progress, get feedback, connect with colleagues, and celebrate wins. You’ll also have the opportunity to find potential collaborators, stay accountable through regular check-ins, and stay informed about upcoming funding opportunities. Whether you’re new to grant writing or a seasoned investigator, join the monthly Grant Group Meet-Up to strengthen your research and grant-writing efforts!
DATE: Wednesday Nov. 5
Time: 11 AM to NOON
Location: Faculty Lounge
Future Dates:
- Wednesday, Dec. 3
- Wednesday, Jan. 14
- Wednesday, Feb. 11
- Wednesday, March 11
- Wednesday, April 8
Want to be added to the mailing list? Email Heather Campbell campbe88@canisius.edu.
Showcasing ABEC Success in Science Hall
Cybersecurity Month: Phishing Awareness
We are not talking about the recreational enjoyment, we are talking about someone attempting to fool you into giving up your credentials. According to the Verizon Data Breach Report, phishing accounted for 12% of breaches involving stolen credentials in 2023. Phishing is a type of cybercrime in which a person tries to obtain sensitive information from another user. Successful phishing can allow a user into a network or system where they can plant a foothold for all kinds of malicious activity.
Types of Phishing Attacks
- Email phishing: Sending fraudulent emails that appear to be from a legitimate source, often containing malicious links or attachments.
- Smishing: Phishing via text message.
- Vishing: Phishing via voice call.
- Spear phishing: Targeting specific individuals or organizations with personalized phishing messages.
Whaling: Targeting high-profile individuals, such as CEOs or executives.
Effective Risk Management Strategies
- Hover Before You Click: Before clicking any link in an email, hover your mouse over it to see the actual URL. If the URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match the sender’s domain, don’t click on it.
- Watch Out for Lookalike Domains: Attackers often create fake domains that are very similar to legitimate ones, with slight changes like missing letters or altered characters (e.g., replacing an “l” with a “1”). Always double-check the URL for these subtle differences.
- Beware of Out-of-Character Messages: If you receive an email that asks you to do something unusual or unexpected, think twice before acting. It may be an attempt to trick you.
- Sense of Urgency: Phishing emails often try to create a sense of urgency or panic by claiming your account is about to expire, that you’ll lose access to something, or that a package is undelivered. These tactics are designed to make you act quickly without thinking.
- Know the Sender: Just because an email appears to come from someone you know doesn’t mean it’s legitimate. Cybercriminals can spoof addresses or use compromised accounts to send malicious messages. Always verify any unusual requests, even if the email appears to come from a familiar name.
- Change of Venue: Be cautious of messages that ask you to switch the conversation to text messages. These are often scams. It might start with “Are you free?” and appear to come from someone you know, but once they move the conversation to text, it’s easier for them to avoid our security measures. If in doubt, verify directly with the person through a trusted method.
Each of you is an essential part of keeping our digital environment secure. Together, we can prevent cyber threats and ensure a safe, productive workspace.
Submitted by Tyler Kron-Piatek, Instructional Designer, on behalf of OculusIT
Oct. 30: Fall Yoga Flow Series

Rest and recharge!
Take a mindful break and move with us in Upper Palisano!
Next sessions:
Thursday, Oct. 30
Thursday, Nov. 11
Each session is led by Dr. Robinson and run from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Flow through seated and standing poses designed to help you unwind, reset, and refocus.
Please bring your own mat (a limited number will be available on site).
Sponsored by Sociology, Environmental Studies and USA Sustainability Committee
Volunteers Needed for the Thanksgiving Sit-Down
Every year Student Life hosts the annual Thanksgiving Sit-Down, an event where the faculty/staff volunteer their time to serve our students a Thanksgiving dinner.
We are seeking volunteer servers for this year’s dinner on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 4:30-7:00 p.m. in the dining hall.
To sign-up for a shift please CLICK HERE.
Any questions please contact Jason Francey, franceyj@canisius.edu
Canisius University Named an “Economic Champion”

The Buffalo Niagara Partnership named Canisius University an Economic Champion for 2025. The award program honors businesses and individuals whose initiatives help drive economic growth through job creation, business development and community investment. Canisius was recognized for investing more than $6 million in capital improvements to campus during 2025. These projects created jobs for local contractors and construction workers while modernizing educational spaces to better serve students.
Click here to read more.
Submitted by: University Communications
Call for Session Leaders for 2026 Winter Faculty Development Week
COLI and Academic Affairs are seeking session leaders and presenters for Winter Faculty Development Week (WFDW), which will take place January 5–8.
Topics usually are centered around Pedagogy and range from novel practices to round-table discussions on using particular tools (such as Podcasting, using Panopto for videos, Hypothes.is for social annotations, EAB Navigate 360, Microsoft Teams, and more). We have also had sessions about classroom role-playing/gamification, academic scholarship, Artificial Intelligence, etc.
For more ideas on topics, check out previous Faculty Development Weeks. Canisius Faculty and Staff can also request access to the Faculty Development Group on D2L (contact email listed below).
If interested, please fill out the 2026 WFDW Session Information Form.
Just want to attend WFDW this year? Stay tuned to the COLI Blog and The Dome for when we launch the RSVP form!
Questions or comments? Or not sure about your topic? Email COLI at coli@canisius.edu.
Bible Study: Exploring Jesus Happen Tuesdays
Reminder: Copyleaks Maintenance, Oct. 28

Copyleaks will be doing routine server maintenance on Oct. 28, starting at 3:00AM. Maintenance is expected to last eight hours.
As such, Copyleaks may not be able to process submissions during this time, nor will faculty be able to review reports and dashboards. Please plan accordingly.
For further information, see their status page:
Copyleaks Status Page: https://status.copyleaks.com
Messaging: https://status.copyleaks.com/incident/1390387
Further tutorials and details on Copyleaks can be found on the Copyleaks Wiki page.
Questions or comments? Please reach out to Helpdesk at helpdesk@canisius.edu.
Oct. 29: Turn Student Loan Savings into Retirement Gains Savi and TIAA Webinar
October is National Retirement Security Month — a perfect time to review long-term savings goals. For many with student debt, monthly payments make saving for retirement challenging: over two-thirds of borrowers cut back on retirement contributions to cover loans. That’s money that could be compounding for your future today.
You shouldn’t have to choose between paying off loans and securing your retirement. Savi and TIAA have partnered to give you tools to optimize both. Savi’s live workshop and follow-up content will show you how to redirect student loan savings toward your retirement.
Live Workshop: Maximize Savings: Turn Student Debt Savings into Retirement Growth
Featuring: Garrett Dunlap, Wealth Management Advisor with TIAA
When: Tuesday, October 29, 2PM EST
After the workshop, you’ll receive practical educational content through October and November with tips to make the most of your student loan relief and retirement strategies.
If you would like to learn more about Savi (through TIAA), click here for a brief overview.
Submitted by Bethany Voorhees, HR coordinator, Human Resources
Curiosity, Collaboration Take Center Stage at Celebration of Faculty Scholarship

Curiosity, conversation and collaboration reverberated throughout Science Hall on Wednesday, October 22 when Canisius University faculty came together to celebrate what connects them all – scholarship. The occasion marked the inaugural Celebration of Faculty Scholarship, organized by the university’s IMPACT Center to highlight the breadth and depth of research taking place across campus.
“Being a scholar is a defining characteristic of being a teacher in higher education,” said IMPACT Center Director Jonathan Rodgers, PhD. “Our scholarship represents our unique and motivating expertise that drives our excellence in teaching. We are better educators because not only do we know our subjects but we also add to human knowledge and understanding of them.”

Showcasing Discovery Across Disciplines
Scholars, students and staff crowded the Chester HON ’01 and Diane Stranczek Commons to hear from faculty on topics that spanned almost every discipline. More than 50 faculty members presented on academic inquiry ranging from gene regulatory networks in cancer cell reprogramming and ocean noise pollution’s impact on marine life to social media’s role in connecting immigrant communities in Western New York. Others shared their scholarly pursuits on narrative storytelling as a tool for social change, bibliometric analysis in concussion treatment and the rising incidence of infertility in the Western New York Community. In addition to poster presentations, the event featured a series of lightning talks in which speakers gave rapid insights on artificial intelligence, cultural assessment, cybersecurity and more.
“I was so excited to hear from my colleagues on the topics they are passionate about,” stated Associate Professor of Biology Jennifer Snekser, PhD. “I see my fellow Canisius faculty members at meetings where we discuss curriculum, university policies and student issues but we rarely discuss our scholarly work.”
Associate Professor of Multimedia Journalism Delaware Arif, PhD, concurred, calling it “a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for the scholarship and creativity of the faculty, as well as to showcase the research productivity on campus.”

Research that Enriches the Classroom
Beyond showcasing their research efforts, faculty participants discussed how their research informs and strengthens what happens in the classroom.
Snekser, whose scholarship focuses on the social behavior of fish species, regularly integrates her findings into her coursework. She also mentors undergraduate researchers in her lab, where they analyze data, isolate hormones from fish water samples, and present their findings at Ignatian Scholarship Day and national scientific conferences.
“I am constantly discussing my scholarship in class and sharing insight with students into the process of scientific investigation,” Snekser explained. “Without my commitment to my scholarly work, I would not have the firsthand knowledge to share with our students.”
Assistant Professor of ABEC Christina Perazio, PhD, whose academic inquiry explores humpback whale communication, said events such as the Celebration of Faculty Scholarship are essential to fostering collaboration and appreciation across disciplines – and across campus.
“It’s important for people at every level of the university to know what the faculty are doing,” she said. “It reminds everyone of the positive change being created through interdisciplinary scholarship.”
Scholarship that Extends Beyond Campus
The celebration also drew members from the neighboring community, underscoring how faculty research not only advances knowledge but benefits the broader public.
“Events like this are awesome and should be the norm,” continued Assistant Professor of Political Science Shyam Sriram, PhD, who presented on how Buffalo’s religious landscape is changing as former Catholic churches are being repurposed into mosques. “It’s a reflection of the city’s growing diversity – and of Canisius’ commitment to engage meaningfully with the broader community.”
A Mission Brought to Life
That commitment to scholarship that serves both campus and community embodies the Canisius mission of pursuing truth and knowledge for the benefit of the greater good, said Vice President for Academic Affairs Bridget Niland, JD, PhD.
“This world is spinning fast and it isn’t going to stop so it’s important that we remain curious, protect the beauty of human curiosity and keep that spirit alive, which is what we’re doing today,” Niland said.
The IMPACT Center plans to build on the celebration’s inaugural success by making it an annual tradition. Next year’s Celebration of Faculty Scholarship is already scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
Teaching Candidates, High School Students Discuss Careers in Education
On Thursday, October 16, teaching candidates from the School of Education & Leadership Studies who are currently student teaching at Tapestry Charter High School, joined Tapestry juniors and seniors for a roundtable lunch discussion about careers in education. The high school students are enrolled in EDU 100: Exploring the Teaching Profession, a course taught on-site by Canisius alum and Tapestry instructional coach Allie Freeburg.
During the discussion, the high schoolers had the opportunity to ask the Canisius education majors about topics such as lesson planning, pathways to becoming a teacher and life as a college student. Programs like this are part of a growing effort to introduce high school students to the teaching profession—especially important during the current nationwide teacher shortage.
Often referred to as “Grow Your Own” initiatives, these programs aim to inspire students to pursue degrees in education and eventually return to their communities to teach. Locally, the Cullen Foundation provides grant funding to support partnerships between Canisius University and schools like Tapestry Charter High School and BuffSci High School, helping to strengthen and expand these efforts.
Submitted by Elizabeth Turner, Director of Educational Partnerships
Canisius in the News

Channel 2 anchor and reporter Lauren Hall visited campus on Tuesday, October 21 for a feature story on the new Unapologetic Coffee in Science Hall. The cafe is owned by Canisius alumnae (and twin sisters) Alicia and Alisa Officer who grew up on Buffalo’s East Side, earned their undergraduate and graduate degrees from Canisius, and are now bringing their business to campus to serve the Canisius community. Click here to watch the story.
The Buffalo News reported on Canisius University’s new partnership with the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA), which provides students free, unlimited access to all NFTA buses and Metro Rail routes across Buffalo and beyond, during the academic school year. Click here to read the story.
Submitted by: University Communications
Oct. 28: Makerspace Creator Lab for Faculty Lunch and Learns

The second Lunch & Learn, TinkerCAD for Pedagogy & Research, will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 28.
This session introduces TinkerCAD, a free, browser-based computer-aided design (CAD) software that enables faculty to create or customize 3D objects for teaching and research applications.
Lunch & Learns are held from Noon to 1:00 PM in Old Main 119.
RSVP here
Clean Mobility Hosts a Family Fun Event on Saturday, Nov. 1!
Please join the fun and festivities on Saturday, November 1 as members of the Clean Mobility Project celebrate. East Side Forward Full Charge Ahead is an opportunity for members of our community to learn more about recent strides to make public transportation and alternative forms of transportation more equitable and available. There will be educational activities and giveaways! Thie event will take place at the Northland Workforce Training Center at 683 Northland Ave, Buffalo, NY 14211 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. To learn more, please scan the QR code on the image or reach out to the organizers at CleanMobilityBuffalo.com/full-charge-ahead
Canisius University is a proud anchor institution of this project and hopes to see many of our campus community members at this event. Please contact Yvonne Widenor at widenory@canisius.edu for more details.
Today: Celebration of Faculty Scholarship
Join your colleagues at the Celebration of Faculty Scholarship hosted by the IMPACT Center today, Oct. 22, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM in Science Hall.
This event will highlight the exciting and diverse scholarly work happening across Canisius, including:
- Lightning Talks from faculty (4:00 – 5:00 PM)
- Scholarship Showcase featuring faculty research, creative projects, and more (5:00 – 6:00 PM)
Enjoy refreshments, connect with colleagues, and celebrate the impactful work of our faculty.
See you there!
Canisius in the News

WGRZ-TV Channel 2 interviewed Interim Director of Cybersecurity Matt Gracie about the Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage on October 20. The widespread outage disrupted a wide range of websites, apps, online stores, delivery services, social media and gaming platforms. “With the growth of cloud computing, we’ve really put all our eggs into just a few baskets,” said Gracie. Click here to view the full story.
Submitted by: University Communications
Honoring Faculty Milestones at Bouwhuis Library
Faculty who achieved tenure, promotion, or emeritus status were celebrated during a special ceremony at Bouwhuis Library on Friday, October 17. Each honoree chose a book to dedicate to the library’s collection and shared a personal message about its meaning during the event. The books and dedications will be displayed on the library’s main floor through the end of October, inviting the campus community to stop by and enjoy them.
Pictured from right to left are honorees Mark Harrington, Sarah Blakely-McClure, Benjamin Dunkle, Barbara Burns, Graham Stowe, Andrew Stewart, Robin Foster and Jeffrey Lindauer.
Submitted by Kristine Kasbohm, Director, Andrew L. Bouwhuis, SJ Library
Bouwhuis Library Adds Magazines to Libby Reading App
Last year, the Andrew L. Bouwhuis, SJ, Library expanded access to a wide variety of ebooks and audiobooks through the addition of the Libby app. Now, the library has expanded this collection by adding magazines in Libby.
This extensive magazine collection of over 5,800 titles covers a wide range of interests and subjects. Highlights include The New Yorker, New Scientist, National Geographic, Us Weekly, Rolling Stone, and more.
Get started by downloading the Libby app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The magazine collection can also be accessed directly from web browsers at https://libbyapp.com/library/nnyoverdrive.
Submitted by Ryan Grimmer, Library Collections and Discovery Services Coordinator, Andrew L. Bouwhuis, S.J. Library
“Diving In” to Curriculum: Biochemistry Lab in Local Ecosystems
Students in BCH 301L took their learning beyond the bench this week during an immersive field experience at Forest Lawn Cemetery and the surrounding Scajaquada Creek corridor. The group participated in a hands-on lesson which combined ecological research, environmental stewardship, and community service.
Led by Dr. Corey Damon, the activity allowed students to observe and identify fish species native to Western New York’s freshwater ecosystems. Participants gathered data on local biodiversity and water quality, discovering firsthand how species distribution is influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen.
Beyond scientific observation, students embodied the Jesuit value of “care for our common home” by collecting litter along the banks of Scajaquada Creek during their fieldwork.
Together, the class removed debris and reinforced the connection between scientific study and environmental responsibility. The lesson, new this semester, supports broader university initiatives promoting sustainability, place-based learning, and reflection.
Students will analyze their field data in upcoming lab sessions and reflect on the interdependence of ecological health and human activity. Moreover, students are about to embark on a four-week lab proteomics laboratory activity to discover evolutionary relationships between local species.
Through this project, Canisius continues its commitment to integrating academic rigor, ethical reflection, and community engagement – helping students become scientists and citizens dedicated to protecting Western New York’s natural heritage.


Luedke, Moran Represent Canisius at Counselor Education, Supervision Conference

Canisius University Associate Professor of Counseling and Human Services Ashley Luedke, PhD, was honored with the 2025 Marijane Fall Counselor Educator of the Year Award by the North Atlantic Region Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (NARACES). The award is named for the late Marijane Fall, a national leader in play therapy and counselor education. The award recognizes counselor educators who have made significant contributions in areas such as school counseling, play therapy and clinical supervision and who exhibit compassion, creativity and professional excellence; demonstrate leadership in professional counseling organizations; and uplift others through kindness, empathy and generosity.
Luedke accepted the award while attending the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES) Conference, where she and Assistant Professor David Moran, PhD, also presented peer-reviewed sessions highlighting their research in counselor education.

Luedke, along with Heidi Henry, PhD, of St. Bonaventure University, presented “Are You In or Out? A Relational-Cultural Approach to Gatekeeping.” The session examined the emotional and ethical complexities of gatekeeping in counselor education and encouraged participants to consider how empathy, connection and mutual growth can enhance the integrity and humanity of the gatekeeping process.
Moran presented “Challenges in Maintaining CACREP Accreditation: An Analysis of Commonly Cited Standards.” His session explored recurring challenges that counseling programs face in meeting CACREP standards, offering insights into how programs can strengthen compliance and improve quality through a better understanding of frequently cited issues.
Click here to read more.
Submitted by: University Communications
Cybersecurity Month: Choosing Strong Passwords
The 2023 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) found that 81% of confirmed breaches involved stolen or compromised credentials. This suggests that a large portion of the breaches can be attributed to weak, reused or stolen passwords. Passwords are still the most common authentication method used across applications and websites because it is the simplest way to implement authentication (proving you are who you say you are). However, choosing a poor password and re-using passwords across sites and applications is paramount to using a cardboard door on your house; it won’t keep the bad guys out for long.
Impacts to Higher Education Institutions
- Data Breaches: Sensitive student, faculty, and staff data can be compromised, leading to identity theft, financial fraud, and regulatory fines.
- Regulatory Non-Compliance: Universities that fail to implement adequate password security measures may face legal and regulatory consequences, including fines and lawsuits.
- Financial Losses: Data breaches can result in significant financial losses for universities, due to costs associated with investigating and remediating the breach, as well as potential legal and regulatory fines.
Effective Risk Management Strategies
- Passphrases: Choose a password phrase with a minimum of 20 characters with no complexity. Passphrases are passwords made up of multiple words, usually a minimum of 4 words. Examples are “water sky yellow runner” or “maple-action-yesterday-winner”.
- Check your password strength with a reputable system like:
- Don’t re-use passwords. Use a password manager like LastPass, Dashlane, Keeper or 1Password to create and store unique passwords for all of your systems and sites.
- Check for Dark Web exposures. https://haveibeenpwned.com/ allows you to search for your email address to see if it has been involved in a breach.
Effective password management is the cornerstone of preventing your account from being used as an attack on the university and the potential loss of faculty, staff or student information.
Posted on behalf of OculusIT
Oct. 25: Join Us for the World Premiere of “Our Daily Bread”
We’re thrilled to invite you to the world premiere of Our Daily Bread — a captivating, modern interpretation of timeless Bible stories, including Adam & Eve, Lazarus & The Rich Man, Jacob & Esau, Joseph & Potiphar’s Wife, Mary Magdalene, and Samson & Delilah.
Saturday, October 25 | 7:30 p.m. | Montante Cultural Center
Experience an unforgettable evening of storytelling that will inspire and move you. Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to see this unique production!
Reserve your seat today on Eventbrite.
VIP Experience (6–7 p.m.)
Upgrade your evening with an exclusive VIP experience before the screening. Enjoy live music by Will Holton, complimentary refreshments, and private balcony seating while mingling with the cast.
Doors for general admission open at 7 p.m.
We can’t wait to share this powerful production with you!
FBE Productions
Submitted by Phil Davis, Assistant Director, Academic Talent Search
Copyleaks Maintenance Happens Oct. 28
Copyleaks will be doing routine server maintenance on Oct. 28, starting at 3:00AM. Maintenance is expected to last eight hours. As such, Copyleaks may not be able to process submissions during this time, nor will faculty be able to review reports and dashboards. Please plan accordingly.
For further information, see their status page:
- Copyleaks Status Page:
- Messaging:
Further tutorials and details on Copyleaks can be found on the Copyleaks Wiki page.
Questions or comments? Please reach out to Helpdesk at helpdesk@canisius.edu.
PA Studies, Counseling Students Collaborate on Patient Simulations

When 57 graduate students from Canisius University’s Physician Assistant (PA) Studies and Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs gathered for a three-hour interprofessional assessment day, they discovered just how much their future professions have in common – and how much they can learn from one another.
The session brought together 28 PA students and 29 clinical mental health counseling students to conduct simulated patient visits, exchange feedback and explore how their disciplines intersect in real-world patient care.
“Our differences in assessments opened our eyes to the understanding and importance of both our approaches and the need to collaborate to help patients,” said Sam Telaak, a second-year graduate student in clinical mental health counseling. “It was a fantastic experience.”
Students overwhelmingly reported positive outcomes from the interprofessional assessment day. In post-event surveys, 100 percent agreed that the session was a unique learning experience and should be offered again in future semesters. Nearly all shared that they gained a better understanding of each other’s roles.
“We had each learner demonstrate how they would conduct a visit with a new patient or client, and concluded with a reflection on what they learned from each other,” noted Aimee Larson, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, chair and director of the PA Studies program. “Students shared that they now feel more secure referring to each other and better understand how their professions can work together to support patients.”
“Our interdepartmental partnership allowed us to leverage each other’s strengths to provide a new learning opportunity for students,” added Tikana Truitt, PhD, assistant professor of clinical mental health counseling. “Working collaboratively has been a rewarding experience and seeing students connect across disciplines with such enthusiasm highlights the significance of this kind of interprofessional learning.”
Truitt and Larson jointly planned the interprofessional assessment day. The event was co-facilitated by Audrey Smith, clinical assistant professor of PA studies, and Sarah Boone, adjunct professor of counseling and human services.
Submitted by: University Communications
New Canisius University Bookstore Enhances Student Success and Campus Experience
A new chapter is underway at the Canisius University campus bookstore through an exciting partnership with Barnes & Noble College (BNC), bringing fresh energy, expanded services and a renewed focus on student success.
“BNC submitted the most compelling proposal that spoke to some of our desired areas of improvement for the bookstore,” said Harold Fields, EdD, vice president for student affairs. The partnership supports one of Canisius’s key goals: ensuring every student has access to their course materials by the first day of class.
“Their inclusive access program aligns with our strategy at Canisius to ensure all of our partnerships and services contribute to our efforts to foster holistic student success,” Fields explained. “Students who do not have access to their course materials are less likely to be as successful in their courses. This partnership will help us ensure materials are available to all students while also enhancing the in-store experience.”
How will the inclusive access program work?
Canisius Complete, the university’s new inclusive access program for course materials, is designed to make it easier and more affordable for students to get the textbooks and digital resources they need—delivered by the first day of class. The cost of course materials is included in tuition, allowing for a more seamless, convenient, and cost-effective process for students and families.
The program, which is currently being finalized, will launch first for undergraduate students. Participants are automatically enrolled but may choose to opt out if they prefer to purchase materials independently. Students will receive an email prompting them to “Take Action” to confirm their order, which then allows the campus bookstore to begin processing materials.
While Canisius Complete has not yet officially launched, its goal is to ensure that every Canisius student has timely access to the correct textbooks and learning materials—supporting academic success and reducing stress around course preparation.
“We want to be the go-to for everything students need for their classes,” said store manager Dominic Bevilacqua. “That’s why we’ll work directly with professors to secure textbooks, materials, and anything else students may need to be successful.”
The details for implementation are currently being finalized and will be shared with the campus community in the coming weeks.
A Fresh Look and Enhanced Student Experience
Bevilacqua has already seen the positive impact of the transition. “We successfully took over the retail space and vamped it up to make it look different and ultimately change the student experience,” he said. The biggest challenge so far has been getting the campus card system up and running and waiting for additional products to arrive.
Bevilacqua noted that BNC’s model focuses on flexibility and customer service. “We provide a positive experience for students and staff and do anything in our power to improve the relationship between the bookstore and the campus,” he said. “If we can make it happen, we will.”
The bookstore will feature brands like Champion, Nike, MV Sport, and Clique, and will partner with LidsU and Fanatics to offer a broader range of Canisius-branded apparel and gifts. “We’re bringing in a brand-new assortment and should be well stocked by mid-November,” Bevilacqua said. “Students and employees have already said the store has a different look and feel—they’re excited to come in and just look around.”
Beyond clothing and course materials, the bookstore also plans to carry new product lines like LifeLines, which offers items to help students relax and unwind, from pens and coloring books to oil diffusers. Computers will also be available for purchase in-store.
Community engagement will be another key focus. “We will offer ‘destress events’ on campus to promote the bookstore but also help students unwind during finals,” Bevilacqua shared. “We’re also planning to sell merchandise at offsite campus events like sporting events and graduation.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Fields envisions the bookstore as a vital part of the Canisius learning ecosystem. “In our strategic plan, Answer the Call, we identified the goal to enhance student-centered spaces and technology infrastructure,” he said. “The bookstore—particularly with BNC’s approach to course materials—is a part of that ecosystem.”
“My long-term vision for the bookstore,” Fields said, “is one that not only supports student success, but also strengthens the sense of community and school spirit that defines Canisius University.”
The bookstore’s website, canisius.bncollege.com, is live and will continue to expand as new merchandise arrives.
Submitted by University Communications
Call for Session Leaders for 2026 Winter Faculty Development Week
COLI and Academic Affairs are seeking session leaders and presenters for Winter Faculty Development Week (WFDW), which will take place January 5–8.
Topics usually are centered around Pedagogy and range from novel practices to round-table discussions on using particular tools (such as Podcasting, using Panopto for videos, Hypothes.is for social annotations, EAB Navigate 360, Microsoft Teams, and more). We have also had sessions about classroom role-playing/gamification, academic scholarship, Artificial Intelligence, etc.
For more ideas on topics, check out previous Faculty Development Weeks. Canisius Faculty and Staff can also request access to the Faculty Development Group on D2L (contact email listed below).
If interested, please fill out the 2026 WFDW Session Information Form.
Just want to attend WFDW this year? Stay tuned to the COLI Blog and The Dome for when we launch the RSVP form!
Questions or comments? Or not sure about your topic? Email COLI at coli@canisius.edu.
Movement Mondays for Faculty and Staff
Oct. 21: Fall Yoga Flow Series
Rest and recharge!
Take a mindful break and move with us in the studio space in Upper Palisano!
Mark your calendars!
Tuesday, Oct. 21
Thursday, Oct. 30
Thursday, Nov. 11
Each session is led by Dr. Robinson and run from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Flow through seated and standing poses designed to help you unwind, reset, and refocus. Please bring your own mat (a limited number will be available on site).
Sponsored by Sociology, Environmental Studies and USA Sustainability Committee
One Wild Adventure: ABEC Students Visit 5 Zoos in 4 Days
Students in the Zoo Exhibitry program spent fall break visiting five zoos in four days – including a very early morning departure on Saturday to reach the National Zoo before the shutdown! Throughout the trip, they observed animal behavior and studied exhibit design, experiences that will inspire their final projects—models of reimagined zoo exhibits.



Submitted by Sue Margulis, Professor, ABEC/Anthrozoology and Biology
Canisius Students Ride Free: New NFTA Partnership Expands Access Across Buffalo
Getting around Buffalo just got easier for Canisius students. Through a new partnership with the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA), Canisius University students now have free, unlimited access to NFTA buses and Metro Rail routes during the academic year.
The initiative—launched this fall—removes transportation barriers and creates new opportunities for students to explore Buffalo, commute to campus, and engage with the wider community.
Read about the new partnership and how it’s transforming student life here.
Submitted by University Communications
Sue Margulis Shares Insights from the Animal Behavior Society Collection
As Historian of the Animal Behavior Society, Sue Margulis, PhD, had the opportunity to visit the Society Archive at the Smithsonian last summer. Her “Notes From the ABS Archive” column was published in the Society’s newsletter. The visit to the archive was eye-opening, and Margulis hopes to visit again to examine more of the 80+ boxes of documents stored there. Read her column in the newsletter here.
Submitted by Richard A. Bailey, PhD, associate dean, School of Arts & Social Sciences
Canisius in the News

Meg Keller-Cogan, EdD, was interviewed for an October 16 article in The Epoch Times about how the layoffs at the Department of Education are impacting special education. The director of the Graduate Education Administration program said the situation is concerning to most public school leaders but that “it would be unprecedented to cut off funding in the middle of a cycle.” Click here to read the full story.
WalletHub interviewed Steve Gattuso for an October 13 article about no balance transfer fee credit cards. The assistant professor of economics and finance spoke about the costs associated with a balance transfer, which may come in many forms – and are often hidden in the fine print. He also noted that credit card companies need to do a better job of disclosing balance transfer fees and explained why so few credit card companies offer the perk. Click here to read the article.
Submitted by: University Communications
Savi and TIAA Webinar: Turn Student Loan Savings into Retirement Gains
October is National Retirement Security Month — a perfect time to review long-term savings goals. For many with student debt, monthly payments make saving for retirement challenging: over two-thirds of borrowers cut back on retirement contributions to cover loans. That’s money that could be compounding for your future today.
You shouldn’t have to choose between paying off loans and securing your retirement. Savi and TIAA have partnered to give you tools to optimize both. Savi’s live workshop and follow-up content will show you how to redirect student loan savings toward your retirement.
Live Workshop: Maximize Savings: Turn Student Debt Savings into Retirement Growth
Featuring: Garrett Dunlap, Wealth Management Advisor with TIAA
When: Tuesday, October 29, 2PM EST
After the workshop, you’ll receive practical educational content through October and November with tips to make the most of your student loan relief and retirement strategies.
If you would like to learn more about Savi (through TIAA), click here for a brief overview.
Submitted by Bethany Voorhees, HR coordinator, Human Resources
Celebration of Faculty Scholarship Happens Oct. 22
Come join us and support our colleagues at the inaugural Celebration of Faculty Scholarship this upcoming Wednesday, October 22 from 4:00PM to 6:00PM in Science Hall! This event is open to everyone– Faculty, Staff, Students, Alumni, and the public.
The event will consist of two parts:
- 4:00PM to 5:00PM: Opening and Lightning Talks (i.e., short, several minute presentations from a selection of Canisius faculty members)
- 5:00PM to 6:00PM: Open Faculty Showcase, where over 50 of our colleagues will be presenting on their scholarly research at individual stations (similar to Ignatian Scholarship Day)
Free food and refreshments will be provided. Learn more about the Celebration of Faculty Scholarship here!
Make sure to stop by the check-in counter for your raffle tickets!
Submitted by Tyler Kron-Piatek, Instructional Designer, on behalf of the IMPACT Center
Canisius Conversation: Why Do They Fear Blacks? The Tops Shooting, Replacement Theory, and the Freedom Fight
With the support of the 5/14 Buffalo Massacre Community Memory Coalition, Canisius University will host a campus and community conversation with Dr. Henry-Louis Taylor, Jr., Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at the University at Buffalo.
The event, titled “Why Do They Fear Blacks? The Tops Shooting, Replacement Theory, and the Freedom Fight,” will take place on Thursday, October 23, from 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. in Regis.
As a member of the 5/14 Buffalo Massacre Community Memory Coalition, Canisius joins in its mission to provide education and to help dismantle the systems of oppression that contributed to the conditions on Buffalo’s East Side.
In his talk, Dr. Taylor will examine the political and structural forces that led to the 5/14 tragedy, including local policy decisions, and will propose a new philosophy for urban development. The session will include time for Q&A and open discussion.
This event is sponsored by the Division of Academic Affairs, Mission & Ministry, and Student Affairs.
New Faces at Canisius: Caroline King, Assistant Director of Campus Ministry, Office of Mission and Ministry
Originally from Gloucester, Massachusetts, Caroline King brings a rich background in education, ministry, and service to Canisius Campus Ministry. After earning a degree in English with a minor in Management and Leadership from Boston College, she spent a year teaching on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota—an experience that confirmed a passion for working with youth. That call to serve led to an M.A. in Pastoral Ministry at the University of Dayton, where she also worked in Campus Ministry and discovered a vocation in retreat leadership, immersion trips, and small-group ministry. Now, Caroline is excited to bring that experience to the Canisius community.
What drew you personally to Campus Ministry at Canisius, and how has your own faith journey influenced the way you walk with students?
What stood out to me was the personal nature of the community here—people know and care for one another. Having attended a Jesuit university and teaching at a Jesuit Lakota K–8 school, I connect deeply with cura personalis (care for the whole person), seeing God in all things, and a faith that does justice. Working at Canisius lets me live that mission. For me, faith is relational at its core. It’s about our relationship with God, others, ourselves, and creation. I love the story from the Gospel of Luke in which Jesus walks along the road with two disciples as they mourn his death. Rather than giving them answers, he journeys with them, discusses Scripture, and shares a meal. That’s how I see my role: walking with students in their journeys and sharing meaningful encounters along the way.
How do you see your role contributing to Campus Ministry’s mission of helping students connect faith and justice in their daily lives?
Faith isn’t meant to isolate us into silos, but to draw us toward others and the world around us. A Scripture verse I love is Micah 6:8: “…and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God.” I hope to carry this message into my ministry. In my role, I invite students to faith-in-action through service-immersion trips and local opportunities. Retreats and small groups nourish students’ faith and provide reflection frameworks to make these experiences more meaningful. Justice work and prayer should always be woven together.
What new initiatives or approaches are you hoping to introduce to engage students who may not already be involved in Campus Ministry?
In addition to the Kairos Retreat, I hope to establish a weekly small faith-sharing group and launch a monthly “Tea Time with Campus Ministry” series. The idea is to create an inviting, casual space in Loyola Hall to talk about faith and life—open to students wherever they are on their journey. We’re also hoping to collaborate with student groups engaged in service and environmental issues to branch out beyond the “campus ministry bubble.”
How is Campus Ministry creating spaces where students of diverse faith traditions—or those still exploring spirituality—feel welcomed and included?
It all starts with connections and relationships. I’m trying to get to know people from different departments and student groups as well as community partnerships in the Buffalo area. I met with MSA (Muslim Student Association) and Orthodox Christian Campus Ministries (OCCM) to see how we can collaborate. We also hosted a member of Hillel of Buffalo on campus to discuss ways to support Canisius’ Jewish students. And I have connected with the Office of the Center for International Education to discuss ways we can partner. Holidays are a natural opportunity to connect, since many international students bring strong cultural and religious traditions. Our programming, while rooted in Jesuit charism, is intentionally accessible. For example, Kairos Retreat (Oct. 31-Nov. 2) is open to any undergraduate or graduate student and invites reflection, dialogue, and prayer in inclusive language. You don’t need to belong to a particular faith—everyone is welcome.
What excites you most about connecting students with service opportunities in Buffalo and beyond, and how do you hope these experiences shape their spiritual journeys?
For the Jesuits, faith and action are pivotal. We’re called not to be isolated, only caring for our own needs, but called to be people for and with others. I’m excited for students to connect with the Buffalo community and see they don’t need to travel across the world to give back in meaningful ways. My hope is they encounter people, places, and stories that transform them and spark a deeper commitment to justice. Service should challenge us, shift our hearts and our minds. My prayer is that students’ faiths will compel them to engage in community service in meaningful ways, so they reflect on these experiences to develop even more robust faith lives.
Outside of your professional work, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? Any fun or little-known facts?
I love being outdoors, especially hiking and trail running, and I seek out spaces that uplift and encourage women to be all they were created to be. I’m inspired by women athletes and runners. A fun fact: during my year teaching at the Pine Ridge Reservation, I got my CDL—so I can also drive a school bus!
“New Faces at Canisius” is a monthly series that introduces new members
of the Canisius University community.
October is Cybersecurity Month
October is Cybersecurity month!
Canisius ITS would like to invite you to spend some time thinking about your online presence and how you can make it more secure.
Is It Really Them?
Every now and then we receive emails, or even text messages, that purport to be colleagues or ITS, asking us to communicate with them for some special or urgent purpose. These can be scammers, and the tactic is called “Phishing.” Read more about these scams and how to avoid them here.
Additionally, make sure to follow safe Email practices. As stated above, Emails can be “spoofed”, meaning that they may look like they come from a colleague but can actually be scammers. Remember to look at the actual Email address (using your mouse, you can hover over the sender’s name in the FROM line) to better identify valid Email requests.
Another easy way faculty and staff can identify spoofed emails is to check for one of the following colored alerts:

These alerts help to confirm whether or not an Email is safe and includes some of the emails found in your “Junk” folder that is already marked “SPAM”. Note that these banners will appear as plain text (i.e., no colored background/square) when viewed in the Junk folder. However, moving the message to any other folder will allow you to see the full-color version.
ITS has also identified several “trusted” email addresses from some of our partner vendors. These senders will not have the above banner image in the header of a message. A few of the trusted vendors include Slate, Adirondack, Medicat, emails sent by Advancement through Benchmark, and more. If you discover that we have missed a vendor that you believe should be included in the trusted vendor list, please contact the ITS Help Desk at helpdesk@canisius.edu.
Also keep in mind that ITS will never send an email concerning authentication (e.g., password expiration) that contains a link.
Separate Work from Personal
It is a good idea to separate out your professional and personal life. On this note, Canisius strongly recommends that you do not mix your work and personal communications and online accounts. Per the Canisius Acceptable Usage Policy, we recommend that you do not use your Canisius Email (i.e., the email ending in @canisius.edu) for personal communications or as the contact email for various personal accounts unrelated to your work at the University.
Please take the time to review any of your personal online accounts and check that you are using a personal email account (such as a free Google Mail/gmail account). Use this external Email address for any accounts unrelated to Canisius University such as personal social media, financial/banking, shopping, etc. Share your personal Email address with friends and family and ask them to contact you there for non-Canisius matters. Use this personal email to also set up another form of Multi-factor Authentication for your Canisius account. You may want to set up an Authenticator App too, particularly if you are in a building that has low cell service.
Secure File Sharing
Email is the primary way most of us communicate with other departments and colleagues. However, it’s not necessarily the safest, especially for securely sharing documents and files. For example, if you accidentally misspell someone’s email address or send the email to the wrong person, they will be able to access any attachments in the email.
If you are sharing sensitive information with fellow faculty and/or staff (or even course resources with your students), check out how to Securely Share Files in Google Drive, or, if you prefer, how to Securely Share Files in OneDrive. Only the people that you have shared the files or folders with will be able to access them.
If your office or department shares information (via email or shared documents, such as Google Docs or Sheets), set up a Shared Google Drive. Shared Drives are great for a team and will persist even after any team member has left the University. Any documents or files that they were working on will still be there for later use.
Additional Tips & Resources
For more information on cybersecurity, check out FoxPointe Solutions’ tips and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Secure our World page and Shields Up page. The SANS (SysAdmin, Audit, Network, Security) Institute also has a Cybersecurity Generations Toolkit, available from their download page. The Toolkit has quizzes and info-graphics targeted at various age groups. Below is their promotional poster:
Also, check out the Pedagogy Primer Podcast Episode 15, where we interviewed Matthew Gracie and Dr. Justin Del Vecchio, both cybersecurity professionals and faculty in the Department of Quantitative Sciences and the Cybersecurity Graduate Program here at Canisius. In this episode, they talk about prospects for Cybersecurity students as well as ways to stay current on cybersecurity issues and cybersecurity best practices.
Keeping Canisius’ systems safe is a community effort! When in doubt or if you have general questions, contact ITS Help Desk at helpdesk@canisius.edu.
Oct. 18: ArtsCanisius Welcomes Vocális Chamber Choir to Campus
We are pleased to welcome the Vocális Chamber Choir to kick off our 2025-2026 concert season!
The Vocális Chamber Choir began in 2002 under the direction of James Burritt, and is described on their website as “a select ensemble of dedicated professionals based in Buffalo, New York [and] . . . is committed to performing great a cappella music of all eras, and to cultivating an awareness of the art of choral singing. The choir strives to inspire, educate and enlighten our audiences through an intimate and moving concert experience.”
“As we open our 24th season, Vocális embraces both past and present. The great works of history have always walked alongside those of today. From the genius of J.S. Bach to the celebrated composers of today, join us as we honor the enduring legacy of choral singing!” – this quotation was also taken from Vocális’ home page, and we look forward to their performance this Saturday, October 18 in Montante Cultural Center starting at 7:30 PM. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students and can be purchased at the door at through their website at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bach-to-the-future-tickets-1689235221019?aff=oddtdtcreator
Please contact Yvonne Widenor, Director of ArtsCanisius for more information at widenory@canisius.edu. Additional concerts and events are noted on
Oct. 21: Writers Series Hosts Award-Winning Memoirist
On October 21, at 7 PM, poet, fiction writer, and memoirist Ira Sukrungurang will read from his work as part of the Canisius Contemporary Writers Series.
Sukrungruang was born in Chicago to Thai immigrants. He earned his BA in English from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and his MFA from The Ohio State University. He is the author of four nonfiction books This Jade World (2021), Buddha’s Dog & Other Meditations (2018), Southside Buddhist (2014) and Talk Thai: The Adventures of Buddhist Boy (2010), the short story collection The Melting Season (2016), and the poetry collection In Thailand It Is Night (2013). With friend Donna Jarrell, he co-edited two anthologies that examines the fat experience through a literary lens—What Are You Looking At? The First Fat Fiction Anthology (2003) and Scoot Over, Skinny: The Fat Nonfiction Anthology (2005). He is a former member of the Board of Trustees for the Association of Writers and Writing Program (AWP), and is currently on the Advisory Board of Machete, an imprint of The Ohio State University Press dedicated to publishing innovative nonfiction by authors who have been historically marginalized.
Sukrungruang is the recipient of the 2015 American Book Award for Southside Buddhist, a New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship in Nonfiction Literature, an Arts and Letters Fellowship, and the Anita Claire Scharf Award in Poetry. His work has appeared in many literary journals, including The Rumpus, American Poetry Review, The Sun, and Creative Nonfiction. He is the president of Sweet: A Literary Confection, a literary nonprofit organization, and is the Richard L. Thomas Professor of Creative Writing at Kenyon College.
A reception and book-signing will follow the reading.
To watch a livestream of the event, email series coordinator Mick Cochrane, cochrane@canisius.edu, who will send you a link.
You can learn more about Ira Sukrungurang on the writers series website:
Oct. 22: Clean Mobility Project NFTA Lunch and Learn
As part of the Clean Mobility Project, join us for an informative session on public transit in Western New York—including an overview of available options, tips for planning your routes, and ideas for making public transportation part of your routine.
This event will occur on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from Noon to 1:30 PM in the Library Learning Center and is free and open to all members of the campus community. Lunch options and snacks will be provided by Chartwell’s Catering.
Please use the QR code to register and contact Yvonne Widenor at widenory@canisius.edu with any questions.
Oct. 28: Makerspace Creator Lab Faculty Lunch and Learns

Join the Makerspace Creator Lab for Faculty Lunch & Learns throughout the Fall 2025 semester, held from Noon to 1:00 PM in Old Main 119.
The second Lunch & Learn, TinkerCAD for Pedagogy & Research, will be held on October 28. This session introduces TinkerCAD, a free, browser-based computer-aided design (CAD) software that enables faculty to create or customize 3D objects for teaching and research applications.
Recap: Highlights from President Stoute’s 2025 State of the University
On Wednesday, President Steve Stoute delivered his 2025 State of the University address, reflecting on the progress, challenges, and promise of the Canisius community. He also expressed pride in the dedication of faculty and staff who continue to meet the challenges of reduced budgets with creativity, commitment, and a shared focus on student success.
For those who were unable to attend, the State of the University address can be viewed in its entirety on the MyCanisius portal.
Key highlights included:
• Campaign Progress: The Answer the Call comprehensive campaign continues to build strong momentum, driving support for student success, innovation, and mission-centered growth, while advancing financial stability of the University.
• Strategic Priorities 2025–26: The university will maintain a renewed focus on the student experience, academic excellence, partnerships and programs like The Buffalo Promise Scholarship, that strengthen the mission amid the challenges of the demographic cliff and other pressures facing higher education.
• President’s Innovation Fund Award Winners 2025-2026: A recap of the President’s Innovation Fund, which recognized six new recipients—three faculty and three staff members—whose projects bring creative ideas to life. From digital learning tools to mentorship and community engagement programs, each received a micro-grant to advance innovative campus initiatives.
• Celebration of Service: The university honored faculty and staff milestones, recognizing their years of dedication and lasting impact on the Canisius community.
The session concluded with a Q&A, where members of the campus community discussed priorities and shared perspectives on upcoming initiatives.
Canisius in the News

Interim Cybersecurity Director Matthew Gracie was recently featured on the Security Repo podcast. During the episode, Gracie discusses the architecture and real-world deployment of Security Onion, a powerful open-source enterprise security monitoring tool. He also reflects on his work as an educator, sharing how generational shifts are shaping the way students approach cybersecurity. Click here to watch the full episode.
Submitted by: University Communications
Happy Hour to Recognize Recent Tenure, Promotion and Retirement
The Division of Arts, Education and Science and the Division of Business, Communications and Health Studies are hosting a casual social gathering to recognize and celebrate the recent tenure, promotions and retirements of our colleagues:
Tenure and Promotion to Associate Professor:
Sarah J. Blakely-McClure, PhD (Psychology)
Robin L. Foster, PhD, (ABEC)
Mark R. Harrington, EdD (Teacher Education)
Zach C. McGurk, PhD, (Economics & Finance)
Graham B. Stowe, PhD (English)
Promotion to Professor:
Jeff R. Lindauer, PhD (Teacher Education)
Andrew D. Stewart, PhD (Biology)
Retired:
Barbara Burns (Teacher Education)
Holly D’Angelis (Counseling and Human Services)
Girish Shambu (Management)
Ben Dunkle (Digital Media Arts)
The social gathering will take place following the event in the Library. Here are the details:
Location: Resurgence Brewing Co., 55 Chicago Street, Buffalo
Date: Friday, October 17
Time: 4 to 6 p.m.
*Appetizers will be served, individual drink tickets will be distributed
Please RSVP HERE BY OCTOBER 13 to help us plan for food and drinks—but know you’re welcome to stop by even if you don’t RSVP.
Post your event on GriffConnect TVs!
Want your event to reach more people?
More than 30 digital displays across campus have been updated with new features to spotlight campus events and announcements.
Faculty, staff, and students can easily share their event or club information to appear on TVs throughout campus.
To maximize visibility, events created in GriffConnect are automatically shared with all students, faculty, and staff—appearing on campus digital displays and in Today@Canisius.
Submitting your event is simple and requires the use of GriffConnect, a tool now available to everyone. Follow the steps below to get started:
Log In at https://griffconnect.canisius.edu/
Use your Canisius credentials to log on to GriffConnect.
Note: If this is your first time logging in, you’ll be prompted to complete a quick onboarding process.
Submit Items for Digital Signage
Once your department has a GriffConnect page, you can submit items for campus digital signage by filling out the submission form.
Need Help?
If you have questions or need assistance, contact Jason Francey at stulife@canisius.edu.
Learn More
Watch this short video to explore all the features GriffConnect offers to help your team engage students.
Watch this short video to see how GriffConnect can help your team engage students and promote your events.
- To feature events in Today@Canisius and on campus digital signage, your department must have a GriffConnect page. If one hasn’t been created yet, you can set it up easily.
- Having a group on GriffConnect amplifies your reach across campus and unlocks valuable tools, including:
- Attendance tracking
- Wider audience publishing
- Communication analytics
- Direct communication with student populations
Please reach out to stulife@canisius.edu with any questions.
Physical Flyers Update
As we continue to transition to paperless advertising, physical flyers are still permitted, but the number of approved posting locations in the tunnel has decreased. Starting this year there are only 5 approved posting locations throughout the tunnels. In addition, we can also post up to 40 flyers in the residence halls. All flyers must be approved before they are displayed. Bring flyers to the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership Development (Student Center 201) for approval. Our team will take care of hanging up the flyers for you!
Important Reminders: University Purchasing and Visa Card Policies
The Controller’s Office would like to remind the campus community of important policies related to university purchasing and Visa card usage:
- University purchasing policy requires expenses of $1,000 or more to be put on a purchase order (PO) and paid through the Accounts Payable system. The only exception is for travel-related expenses such as hotels, airfare and team meals. Expenses less than $1,000 should be charged to a university Visa card when possible. If there are circumstances that require the use of a credit card for purchases above $1,000, prior approval from the Controller’s Office is required.
- The purchase of gift cards with University funds is strictly prohibited. This includes purchasing them with personal funds and then requesting reimbursement from the university. Gift cards are considered taxable income by IRS regulations.
- University policy prohibits linking of a university Visa card to personal 3rd party payment accounts such as Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Amazon or any other similar type account. Payments to individuals or organizations for university-related services must be made through the Accounts Payable system to ensure proper tax treatment.
If you have questions about these policies, please contact the Controller’s Office.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Submitted by: Ron Haberer, assistant vice president, Finance & Administration
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