The Department of Kinesiology welcomed Exercise Science students from Erie 1 BOCES to our exercise physiology lab in Science Hall! Dr. Dennis Koch, Associate Professor of Kinesiology provided an experience featuring hands-on use of our VO2 max and Bod Pod capabilities — two tools not only used in our lab but also widely used in clinical and professional settings. The Department of Kinesiology has Advanced Credit programs giving Erie I and Erie 2 BOCES students 12 college credits toward their major for completing their BOCES Exercise Science program. A special shoutout to our own awesome student volunteers who stepped up for the demonstrations!

Submitted by: Karl F. Kozlowski, Professor and Chair, Department of Kinesiology

Canisius University will join Catholics worldwide on Saturday to mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

The Holy Father will be remembered for his dedication to serving the poor and marginalized, his passionate advocacy for our common home, and his embodiment of humility through his simple lifestyle. Pope Francis left an indelible mark on both the Church and society at large. His life exemplified the very mission and values that Canisius strives to uphold. The Canisius community gathers in solemn prayer and reflection as we honor his extraordinary life and enduring legacy.

Submitted by: University Communications

Canisius University President Steve Stoute spoke with WBFO Radio on April 22 about the university exploring a debt offering that would generate resources needed to invest in initiatives to fuel academic excellence and innovation, and student success and engagement. President Stoute explained how the initiative would help finance a series of renovations to Old Main and Science Hall, as well as the creation of a Student Success Center in the Anthony Bouwhuis Library. Click here for the full story.

Submitted by: University Communications

Canisius University received significant media attention on Monday, April 21, following the passing of Pope Francis, the first Jesuit pope in history. Local media outlets covered the memorial Mass held on campus to honor the pope’s life and legacy, highlighting the institution’s Jesuit connection to Rome.

President Steve Stoute, Rev. Fred Betti, SJ, chaplain for mission and ministry, and Jonathan Lawrence, PhD, professor of religious studies, all provided insights for the local media.

Their interviews can be viewed on
WGRZ-TV Channel 2 with Kelly Dudzik
WGRZ-TV Channel 2 with Andy Paden
WIVB-TV Channel 4

Father Betti also spoke with WBEN-AM Radio 930 on Monday, April 21 and Buffalo-Toronto Public Media (formerly WBFO Radio).

WGRZ-TV Channel 2 interviewed Associate Professor of Psychology and IAR Researcher Jonathan Rodgers, PhD, on Thursday, April 17 following several controversial comments about autism from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. During his 30-minute address, RFK remarked that individuals with autism would be unable to lead fulfilling lives, including holding jobs or having relationships. Rodgers condemned RFK’s comments and warned that they increase the stigma surrounding autism. Click here to watch the story.

Rodgers’ IAR colleague and Psychology Professor Marcus Thomeer, PhD, was recently interviewed by digital creator and holistic health coach Danielle Ufland-Westfield for her Facebook Live program. Thomeer spoke about the work and the research conducted at the Institute for Autism Research, as well as its upcoming summerMAX program. This comprehensive social development program teaches social skills to 7-12-year old autistic children and also works with them on interest expansion, interpretation of non-literal language (idioms), and face and affect recognition. Ufland-Westfield’s son participated in summerMAX and now she is helping to raise money for the program. Click here to watch Thomeer’s interview using passcode: 2hvZ9$&&.

Submitted by: University Communications

Denim Day is celebrated world wide to show support for survivors of sexual violence.  It originated when a alleged perpetrator in Italy was found not guilty.  The reason: the jeans the woman was wearing were considered tight, in fact so tight, that there was no way that the alleged perpetrator could have removed them without help from the woman.

The next day, women in the Italy’s parliament came to work in jeans to show their disapproval of the ruling and their support of the survivor.

Please join the entire community by wearing jeans, and your Griffs Supporting Griffs T-shirt if you have one, on Wednesday, April 30.

Submitted by: Debbie Owens, Title IX Coordinator/Associate Dean of Students

Pictured above: ASN 2025 Honorary Inductees (left to right) Shawn O’Rourke, PhD, Bridget E. Niland, PhD, Joshua Russell, PhD.

Pictured above: ASN 2025 Student inductees, top row (far right) Deacon Timothy E. Chriswell, middle row (l-r) Gabby Kaderli, Gabrielle Myers, Kaitlin O’Meara, Fred Piwko, Cloe Armstrong, (bottom row, l-r) Ryan Harrington, Delaney Hayden, Mikayla Boyd, Sophie Asher, Sydney Umstead.

The Alpha Sigma Nu Honor Society of Jesuit Colleges and Universities extends its heartiest congratulations to its new Alpha Sigma Nu inductees.  A total of 14 students and three honorary inductees were inducted at the Alpha Sigma Nu Induction Ceremony on Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Christ the King Chapel.  (Three student inductees were unable to attend the ceremony.)

Alpha Sigma Nu recognizes those students who distinguish themselves in scholarship, loyalty and service.  The only honor society permitted to bear the name Jesuit, Alpha Sigma Nu encourages its members to a lifetime pursuit of intellectual development, deepening Ignatian spirituality, service to others, and a commitment to the core principles of Jesuit education.  Selection to Alpha Sigma Nu is one of the highest honors awarded to students in the top 15 percent of the class on a Jesuit campus.

Submitted by: Veronica Serwacki, Canisius University chapter coordinator, Alpha Sigma Nu, and executive associate, College of Arts & Sciences

Canisius is taking another important step in its progress toward achieving the goals outlined in the university’s strategic plan: Answer The Call. The university is exploring a debt offering that would generate resources needed to invest in initiatives to fuel academic excellence and innovation, and student success and engagement. As part of this process, a public hearing will take place on April 30, 2025, conducted by the Buffalo and Erie County Industrial Land Development Corporation—the issuer of the debt.

In addition to debt funding for strategic initiatives, Canisius will refinance approximately $40 million in existing debt from previous campus improvement projects. If approved, this debt offering will result in substantial cost savings for the university, and provide capital to reinvest into several important projects including the:

• Renovation of approximately 45,000 square feet of academic space in Old Main Hall
• Rehabilitation of approximately 26,000 square feet of space in Science Hall
• Creation of a new student success center

This potential debt offering represents an opportunity to maximize the university’s resources while continuing to enhance campus facilities for students and faculty, in furtherance of the strategic goals outlined in Answer The Call.

Submitted by: University Communications

Commencement is Saturday, May 17, 2025, in the Koessler Athletic Center (KAC). Graduate and undergraduate degrees will be conferred at the following ceremonies:

1. College of Arts & Sciences Degrees Conferred – 10:00 a.m.
2. School of Education and Wehle Business School Degrees Conferred – 1:30 p.m.

This event marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and the unwavering perseverance of our students, who are now filled with pride, hope, and the promise of a bright future.

Each of us has played a role in their transformation, and we hope you’ll join us in celebrating this exciting milestone. Watching our graduates and their families come together is a powerful reminder of the purpose behind our efforts every day.

To volunteer, please click HERE by Thursday, May 8, 2025. 

More information on commencement week events can be found HERE. Please do not hesitate to contact Maggie Burkard at burkardm@canisius.edu with additional questions or concerns.

We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2025!

Submitted by: Maggie Burkard, Academic Affairs

The conservation biology class will be hosting its annual poster session on the last day of the semester, Thursday May 1. Please stop by Science Hall Atrium between 10 and 11:20 to learn about things that you can do to benefit the environment.

Submitted by: Sue Margulis, Professor, ABEC/Anthrozoology and Biology

Canisius students with USFWS employee (and ABEC alum) Shakira Jinez

Students from the undergraduate ABEC and graduate Anthrozoology programs joined Dr. Robin Foster for a volunteer experience at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge in Connecticut over Easter break. Students participated in recovery activities for the Roseate Tern, clearing trails on Falkner Island – home to one of the largest tern nesting colonies on the east coast. The trails allow biologists and interns to conduct anti-predator patrols, protecting the nests by chasing away stealthy predators that use the shrubby cover to sneak into the tern colony.

The group also participated in a beach clean-up and learned about conservation efforts for the Diamondback Terrapin, the history of the refuge, and careers with the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Students on the trip had lots of opportunities for birding and viewing marine wildlife, including seals and jellyfish. This unique opportunity to experience “a day in the life” with the USFWS was facilitated by 2019 ABEC alumna Shakira Jinez, who works at the refuge.

Students taking in the the view from the top of the historic lighthouse on Falkner Island

Students enjoying the boat ride to Falkner in their “survival suits.”

Students clearing trails on Falkner Island

Submitted by: Robin Foster, Assistant Professor, ABEC & Anthrozoology

Krit Marohn, general chemistry laboratory coordinator at Canisius, and Dr. Sherry Chemler, professor of Chemistry at UB, co-coordinators of the U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO) for the WNY American Chemical Society (ACS) local section, invited all high school students residing in WNY to participate in the Chemistry Olympiad.  Honeywell’s Buffalo Research Lab provides generous financial support for the Chemistry Olympiad competition in WNY.

The 2025 Local Exam was administered on March 15.  There were 39 participants.  The exam included 60 multiple choice questions covering general and organic chemistry.

The six top performing students on the 2025 local exam were invited to participate in the 2025 national exam, which was administered at Canisius University on April 5.  This exam included 60 multiple choice questions, eight explanation questions, and two laboratory practical experiments also covering general and organic chemistry.

The 20 top scoring students on the national exam are invited to spend two weeks at a study camp in June to undergo rigorous training for the international exam. Based on their performance, four students are chosen to represent the U.S. at the International Chemistry Olympiad.  This year’s International Chemistry Olympiad will take place in July in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.  These four international competitors are accompanied by mentors who translate the test, inspect laboratories and arbitrate the score of the exams. Students and mentors also have opportunities to interact with one another and experience the host country’s culture through planned educational and social events.

Submitted by: Phil Sheridan, Professor and Chair, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Congrats to Dr. Justin Del Vecchio, Director of the Cybersecurity MS and Assistant Professor of Computer Science.

His article, “Defending the Dnieper with Artificial Intelligence”, shares how to use large language models to enhance intelligence analysis using open source documents from the current Russo-Ukrainian conflict. Justin developed a powerful AI system that uses multiple language models to analyze large datasets and generate detailed intelligence reports. This innovative pipeline enhances real-time decision-making by transforming open-source documents into searchable, nuanced insights—demonstrated through applications to the Russo-Ukrainian conflict.

Read the full article here.

Submitted by: Heather Campbell, Professional Director CCADE

Technology plays a vital role in shaping the academic and operational excellence of Canisius University. To ensure that our technological environment continues to support the needs of our students, faculty, and staff effectively, the university will be conducting a comprehensive technology assessment in partnership with OculusIT, a leading provider of Higher Education technology solutions.

The OculusIT team will be on-site from April 21 to May 9 to assess our existing IT systems, information security, networks, and technology support services. This assessment will help the university identify opportunities for improvement and innovation in our technological landscape.

What to Expect During the Assessment:

• Comprehensive review of current IT infrastructure, systems, and networks, including equipment, labs, and enterprise systems
• Security assessment to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen our defenses
• Evaluation of IT staffing and IT support services for students, faculty, and staff

Following the assessment, OculusIT will provide recommendations for optimizing technology resources and processes at Canisius in support of our strategic goals. This collaborative effort will help ensure that the IT environment at Canisius is aligned with our institution’s long-term goals. OculusIT will contact the identified individuals to participate.

Thank you for your support and engagement in this important initiative.

Submitted by: Bob Baumet

Canisius University marked a historic milestone on Friday, April 11 when it celebrated the 100th anniversary of its prestigious DiGamma Honor Society while welcoming 10 distinguished individuals into its ranks.  

Founded in 1925 as “The Coffin Club,” the DiGamma Honor Society has spent a century recognizing those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the advancement of the university through exemplary service to students, fellow alumni, and the broader Canisius University community. 

“This centennial celebration is a testament to the strength and selflessness of the alumni of Canisius University,” said William Lorenz Jr. ’09, president the Canisius University Alumni Association and grand master of the DiGamma Honor Society. “The legacy of being men and women for others continues through this year’s remarkable inductees who exemplify the values that have defined and sustained DiGamma for a century.” 

This year’s inductees are (pictured l-r):

• William Lorenz Jr. ’09 (grand master of DiGamma Honor Society) 
• Maeve E. Huggins ’09, Esq.
  Assistant U.S. Attorney, Buffalo, NY 
• Karl Kozlowski, PhD
  Associate Dean, School of Education and Human Services; 
  Professor and Chair, Sports & Exercise Health Care 
  Canisius University 
• Fatima L. Rodriguez Johnson MS ’98
  Associate Dean, Diversity & Inclusion
  Canisius University 
• Brandon T. Bielecki ‘15, MS ’19 
  Director, Advancement 
  Canisius University 
• Timothy A. Sanders ’97
  Senior Pastor
  CrossNation Global Ministries 
• Margaret W. Paroski ’76, MD
  President, Chief Executive Officer 
  Catholic Medical Partners 
• Susan M. Marchione ’85, MS ’99, EdD
  Assistant Vice President, Program Development 
  Daemen University 
• Steven A. Gattuso ‘87, MBA ’88 
  Executive Director, Golden Griffin Fund 
  Canisius University 
• Richard W. Ryskalczyk ’10 
  Co-managing Partner, Portfolio Manager 
  Sandhill Investment Management 
• Jerry G. Canada, Jr. ’86 
  Member, Board of Directors 
  TruBridge 

Click here to read more about the history of the DiGamma Honor Society.

Back for the 3rd year! BSides Buffalo is a day long conference to enjoy, learn from, and celebrate the Western New York information security community.

Tickets

$20 – Register for the Event

Students: Want a free ticket? Just submit your resume to share with our sponsors and get a code for a free ticket to this event!

Note: Please purchase your ticket by May 10 to make sure that you get a t-shirt, any tickets purchased after that may not include one.

Agenda includes:

• Multiple talk tracks where experts will share their knowledge with the community. This includes a “Hacking Is Art” track for speakers at the intersection of technology and art, and an “Introsec” track for people new to the field.
• An exhibitor hall for our event sponsors.
• A community groups area with representatives from other hacking and technology organizations in the area.
• A Capture The Flag competition with prizes.
• A soldering workshop with a free project you can take home.
• Free lunch!
• Plenty of conference swag.
• A chance to network with your peers in the community.

Register for the Event

Submitted by: Heather Campbell, Professional Director CCADE

ABEC Students are gaining valuable hands-on experience training dogs through the Applied Dog Behavior course (ABEC 320/320L), part of the school’s innovative Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation (ABEC) program.

In the laboratory component of the course, students work directly with dogs owned by faculty, staff, students, and community members to implement humane, positive reinforcement-based training methods. The training exercises focus on building connections between handlers and dogs while teaching practical skills like settling on mats, leash walking, and impulse control.  Students then develop individualized training plans tailored to their assigned dog and communicate with the animal’s guardian about continuing the training at home, creating a comprehensive learning experience that benefits both students and pets.

Click here to learn more about the course.

Canisius University announced today that Rev. Zachariah F. Presutti ’07, SJ, a Jesuit priest leading groundbreaking prison reform work, and Zeneta B. Everhart ’11, Buffalo’s Common Councilwoman representing the city’s Masten District, will deliver the commencement addresses at the university’s 2025 graduation ceremonies on Saturday, May 17 at the Koessler Athletic Center.  

The undergraduate and graduate ceremonies for the College of Arts & Sciences will begin at 10:00 a.m., with Father Presutti delivering the commencement address.  The afternoon ceremony, featuring Everhart as the commencement speaker, will begin at 1:30 p.m. and celebrate undergraduate and graduate students from the Wehle Business School and the School of Education and Human Services.

During both ceremonies, Canisius University President Steve K. Stoute will confer honorary degrees upon the speakers.  

Click here to read more about this year’s commencement speakers.

DENIM DAY 2025

Date: Wednesday, April 30

Location: All over the world, but our focus will be on the Canisius University Campus

Denim Day is a worldwide campaign that educates people about sexual violence. Wear denim and support survivors, create awareness to stop sexual violence, and challenge misconceptions about sexual assault.

ABOUT DENIM DAY

Denim Day is inspired by a ruling in Italy where a rape conviction was overturned, and women in the Italian Parliament wore jeans in protest.

A driving instructor, convicted of raping his 18 year old student seven years prior, appeals his conviction. His defense: her jeans were so tight that she would have had to assist in removing them. His conviction was overturned. The Italian High Court released a statement that became known as the ‘jeans alibi”.

Thankfully, people weren’t having it. Enraged by the verdict, the women of the Italian Parliament showed up to work on the steps of the Supreme Court the next day wearing denim. Fast forward to today, and Denim Day has become a global movement. It’s all about raising awareness of sexual assault, debunking harmful myths, and supporting survivors.

HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE

Join the Canisius University ROTC program in showing your support for Denim Day by wearing denim on campus on Wednesday, April 30.

Submitted by: CPT Erin Morris, ROTC

We are delighted to announce that our student ensembles begin on Friday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. with the Canisius University Jazz Ensemble in Montante Cultural Center.

Next up, Canisius University Chamber Orchestra will perform on Sunday, April 27 at 7:30 p.m., also in Montante Cultural Center.

The third concert is Canisius University Chorale, and they will perform in Christ the King Chapel on Monday, April 28 at 7:30 p.m.

All performances are free and open to the public and begin at 7:30 PM.

For more information about these and other ArtsCanisius events, kindly visit canisius.edu/artscanisius or contact Yvonne Widenor, director of ArtsCanisius at widenory@canisius.edu.

Submitted by: Yvonne K. Widenor, Assistant Professor, Art History, MLLC, AVPAA, Director, ArtsCanisius

Michael Wood, PhD, professor of physics and faculty member in the Department of Quantitative Sciences, recently participated in the latest experiment in Hall B at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (JLab).  The experiment is a 3D map of the interior of the Helium-4 nucleus.

All atomic nuclei are made of protons and neutrons.  The protons and neutrons consists of more fundamental particles called quarks.

One goal of the experiment is to understand how the Helium nucleus emerges from a collection of kinetic quarks. The measurement uses an electron beam traveling at 99.9% the speed of light that scatters off of a Helium target.  Particles created in the reaction are collected in the CLAS12 detector (https://www.jlab.org/physics/hall-b/clas12) and the new ALERT tracking system (https://www.anl.gov/phy/quantum-chromodynamics-in-nuclei).  The ALERT detects the low-energy recoiling particles in order to measure a complete reaction.  JLab is a Department of Energy national lab located in Newport News, VA (https://www.jlab.org/).  Its mission is to study the building blocks of matter and probe the particles and forces that make up the atomic nucleus.   A typical Hall B experiment collects data 24-7 for two-to-three months and requires the help of the more than 200 national and international collaboration members

Submitted by: Michael Wood, PhD, professor, physics

Join us for our special Holy Week and Easter celebrations!

Our two signature events include:

• Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, April 19th at 6:30 PM
• Easter Sunday Mass on April 20th at 9:30 AM.

The Easter Vigil will feature the sacrament of Confirmation for approximately six of our students and staff, along with students from Canisius High School. This beautiful and meaningful service marks an important milestone in their faith journey.

We invite you to join our community as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ and the renewal of faith that Easter represents.

Submitted by: Campus Ministry

Together, we did it!

Thanks to the incredible support of our faculty, staff, alumni, parents, students and friends, Canisius Giving Day 2025 was a huge success!

As of Thursday morning, a total of 1,667 gifts were made, contributing $650,104 in support of the dozens of initiatives submitted by our campus partners.

And, more than 130 current or former, faculty or staff rose to the challenge and made a gift on Giving Day unlocking the Faculty and Staff Challenge from J. Patrick Greenwald, resulting in a $5,000 donation to the Kenneth Koessler Faculty Development Fund. Thank you for coming through!

It is truly incredible to see members of the Canisius community from far and wide coming together and investing in the areas and initiatives that make a Canisius education special. Most of all, Giving Day showcases the power of thousands of Griffins coming together in support of our students – YOU make it possible!

Submitted by: Jessica Mitrovits, director, Canisius Fund

The Canisius Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry hosted the 2025 Western New York American Chemical Society Undergraduate Research Symposium on Saturday April 5, with Professor Tim Gregg serving as chair of the symposium organizing committee.

The symposium began with a keynote address, “Greasing the Protein Gears:  Harnessing Lipidation for Next-Generation Biomaterials and Therapeutics” by Davoud Mozhdehi, associate professor of chemistry at Syracuse University.

Following the keynote address, undergraduate students from 12 universities in Western New York delivered six oral and 29 poster presentations describing their research projects.  Eight Canisius chemistry and biochemistry majors presented posters on their most recent research accomplishments.

Since 2008, this symposium has showcased undergraduate research in chemistry and biochemistry conducted in Western New York, an experiential learning opportunity that is frequently cited as a critical activity leading to success in careers in the sciences and the health professions.

Submitted by: Phil Sheridan, Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Join us for a compelling evening with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Alex Storozynski as he presents his book – Spies in My Blood: A Polish Family’s Fight Against Nazis and Communists

Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Regis Room, Student Center, Canisius University

Spies in My Blood is a true story that follows two brothers raised in New York by World War II exiles, each embarking on a separate mission to infiltrate the Communist secret police in Poland. Storozynski recounts his journey behind the Iron Curtain, where his investigative work on Polish dissidents led him to be declared an “enemy of the state.”

Event Highlights:

✅ Books available for purchase and signing
✅ Free event with refreshments

Don’t miss this unforgettable story of courage, resistance, and the unbreakable bonds of family.

All are welcome! See you there.

Submitted by: Nurul Abdul Salam, Administrative Specialist, College of Arts & Sciences

Mark J. Koziel ’91, CPA, CGMA, president and CEO of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants & American Institute of CPAs, will be honored as the Accountant of the Year at the 68^th annual Canisius University Accounting Society banquet on Thursday, April 24 at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens.  Cocktails are at 5:30 p.m.; dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m.

The Accounting Society will also recognize Henry McWilliams ’94, MBA ’03, CPA, chief financial officer at UBMD Primary Care.  McWilliams will receive the Dr. Joseph R. Coppola ’40 Award, which recognizes the exceptional achievements of a Canisius University accounting alumnus.

Ian J. Redpath, JD, chair of the Canisius University Accounting Department, will present student awards during the event.

Click here to read more about both Mark Koziel and Henry McWilliams.

Submitted by: Kimberly Walkow, Executive Administrative Assistant, Wehle Business School

The ALANA Student Center is sponsoring an ALANA Graduation ceremony that recognizes the accomplishments made by graduating students of color at Canisius University. The event will take place on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. in the Montante Cultural Center. Students who attend this event will receive a custom stole to wear during their Commencement exercises.

In order to receive a stole, you must complete the form. Please note, we will confirm that you have fulfilled all of your graduation requirements with the office of Student Records and Financial Services prior to providing you with a stole.

Please complete this form no later than, Friday, April 25. If you have any questions, please contact the ALANA Student Center at mcfoym@canisius.edu.

Submitted by: Joseph Dodoo, Program Coordinator (Graduate Assistant) – ALANA Student Center

Today is Canisius Giving Day – a day of celebration and support when members of the Canisius community will once again come together for an extraordinary day of giving back.

This special campaign is all about participation and showcasing the power of the Canisius community.

We also have a very special faculty and staff participation challenge. In honor of the incredible individuals he has worked with over his 45+ years at Canisius and recognizing the vital role that faculty and staff play in the success of the university, J. Patrick Greenwald, Director Emeritus of Donor Engagement has committed to making a $5,000 contribution to the Kenneth Koessler Faculty Development Fund when 75 current or former, faculty or staff members make a gift on Giving Day.

Your gift can be directed to the area of the university that holds the most meaning for you, whether that’s an academic department, student success, or any other cause you’re passionate about. Giving Day is all about participation, and every gift—regardless of size—makes a difference!

Make your gift now and help us unlock this challenge! 

Students enrolled in the Foundations of Education class with Dr. Barbara Burns volunteered at Hamlin Park Academy (BPS #64) twice this past week.

One group helped at the Thursday evening Academy on April 3rd playing basketball and other fun games, along with helping students learn about money.  Then, more Canisius students arrived on Saturday, April 5th to assist with the DIY Bath Bomb station along with games in the athletic center while hundreds of people came by for the Free Farmer’s Market.

Canisius students got a glimpse into the Community Schools model and how it’s designed to serve the whole child in Buffalo Public Schools.  At the end of April, more students will be volunteering at Burgard High School’s Saturday Academy.  Thanks, Griffs!

The Canisius Writing Center recently started a podcast, The Excessive Podcast. In each episode, our host Sara Swenson, a senior Psychology and English major, interviews a writer on campus, discusses a piece of art or media found in the library, and talks about writing center work with tutors, and discusses a piece of art or media found in the library.

You can find the each episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and via any RSS-enabled podcast platform.

Submitted by Graham Stowe, Assistant Professor of English, Director of the Writing Center

Canisius University would like to acknowledge a student and a faculty, staff, or administrator who represent the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK). Toward this end, we would like to solicit nominations for an award or awards to be presented to deserving person(s) at the Spring Award Ceremony. The nominee must demonstrate qualities promoting social justice, racial harmony, civil rights, human rights, advocacy for the poor, or non-violence.

Please take a moment to nominate a University member for this honor. Only current students, faculty, staff or administrators can nominate Canisius University members. For each award category (student and non-student), please identify one or more areas listed in the link below which make this person deserving of the award.

View Submission Form

The Department of Quantitative Sciences and the larger Canisius community mourn the passing of Dr. Kenneth Scherkoske on April 2, 2025.

Ken joined the Physics Department at Canisius College in the early 1980’s. He brought with him a background in theoretical nuclear physics and a love for mathematical physics. During his 35 years at the premier Jesuit university of Western NY, he taught a range of courses from introductory physics for health science students to Quantum Mechanics for Physics majors. Over the years, his students have remarked that he set a high standard of mathematical rigor in his classes. He felt at home in both the Physics Department and the Mathematics Department. He was also known for this sharp wit. His obituary can be found below:

View Obituary

Ken and his family are in our thoughts.

In the Hands of God
More than ever I find myself in the hands of God.
This is what I have wanted all my life from my youth.

But now there is a difference;
the initiative is entirely with God.

It is indeed a profound spiritual experience
to know and feel myself so totally in God’s hands.

– Pedro Arrupe, SJ

Submitted by: Dr. Michael Wood, Professor of Physics

Submitted by: Dorcus Nzayisenga, Leadership Engagement Coordinator, ALANA Student Center, Multicultural Center

Commencement is Saturday, May 17, 2025, in the Koessler Athletic Center (KAC). Graduate and Undergraduate degrees will be conferred at the following ceremonies:

1. College of Arts & Sciences Degrees Conferred – 10:00 am
2. School of Education and Wehle School of Business Degrees Conferred – 1:30 pm

This event marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and the unwavering perseverance of our students, who are now filled with pride, hope, and the promise of a bright future. Each of us has played a role in their transformation, and we hope you’ll join us in celebrating this exciting milestone. Watching our graduates and their families come together is a powerful reminder of the purpose behind our efforts every day. To volunteer, please click HERE by Thursday, May 8, 2025. More information on commencement week events can be found HERE. Please do not hesitate to contact Maggie Burkard at burkardm@canisius.edu with additional questions or concerns.

We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2025!

Submitted by: Maggie Burkard, Academic Affairs

Submitted by: Academic Affairs

On April 1, the ALANA Student Center proudly inducted eleven remarkable students into the Delta Gamma Chapter of the Alpha Alpha Alpha Honor Society, the national honor society for first-generation college students. This inspiring event celebrated the inductees for their outstanding academic achievements, unwavering resilience, and commendable leadership service to our community.

Congratulations to these exceptional individuals for their dedication and contributions. We are honored to welcome them into the Tri-Alpha Honor Society and look forward to witnessing their continued success!

Submitted by: Dorcus Nzayisenga, Leadership Engagement Coordinator, ALANA Student Center, Multicultural Center

Makerspace is thrilled to invite all builders and crafters to help us build the LEGO Disney Castle. LEGO has been a mainstay in Makerspace at Canisius, and we welcome students, faculty, and staff to join us Tuesday, April 15 from 12 to 3 pm on the main floor the Andrew L. Bouwhuis, SJ Library.

We also have Creator LEGO for those who want to build smaller things and space for those who want to bring other projects.

For more information about this and other Makerspace activities, please contact Tyler Kron-Piatek at kronpiat@canisius.edu or Yvonne Widenor at widenory@canisius.edu

Submitted by: Yvonne K. Widenor, Assistant Professor, Art History, MLLC, AVPAA, Director, ArtsCanisius

As of April 3, the Health Science Building moved to 24-Hour swipe access. This move was taken to ensure a secure working and learning environment while campus and community stakeholders review swipe access for campus buildings. We are working with faculty and staff affected by this move to ensure all are notified of the need for their Canisius ID to enter the building. Signs have been posted in the hallways and at entrance doors. Please contact the Office of Academic Affairs know if you have any questions via email at acafmail@canisius.edu. 

Submitted by: Academic Affairs 

We are excited to announce that Canisius Giving Day is just around the corner! Our annual 24-hour online celebration of community and giving – is next Wednesday, April 9!

Canisius Giving Day is all about participation – our goal for the day is to reach 1,400 donations. Faculty and staff are invited to make an early gift to the area of the university that means the most to them, which will help us reach that goal!

Also, be sure to check out this year’s Giving Day kick-off video on social media, which proudly showcases our incredible students – enjoy!

Submitted by: Jessica Mitrovits, director, Canisius Fund

In a continuing series of presentations tied to our strategic plan and campus operations, Vice President and Director of Athletics Bill Maher will discuss some of the key issues that have shaped the national landscape for intercollegiate athletics and understanding how Canisius is responding. The forum will also provide some perspective on Canisius relative to our conference peers, financial and academic profile information, and some of the key initiatives that are elements of our University’s strategic plan.

We seek to recognize an ALANA graduating senior for the Annual ALANA Achievement Award. The criteria include outstanding character and leadership, academic achievement (minimum GPA of 3.0), community service, and commitment to Jesuit values. The deadline for nominations is April 11th. To nominate a student, please scan the QR code on the flyer posted. ALANA stands for Afro-American, Latinx American, Asian American, and Native American students. For more questions, contact Dorcus Nzayisenga via nzayised@canisius.edu.

Submitted by: Dorcus Nzayisenga, Leadership Engagement Coordinator, ALANA Student Center, Multicultural Center

Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Department of Quantitative Sciences Ignatian Scholarship Day Poster Competition!

Please join us today, Wednesday, April 2, for the 18th annual Ignatian Scholarship Day (ISD). Artistic displays and performances, paper and multimedia presentations, and poster sessions will take place 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at various locations.

The schedules and project compilations can be viewed on the ISD google site (you will need to be logged into myCanisius to view the site).

As a reminder, classes that normally meet on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday pattern do not meet today. Classes that normally meet on Wednesday only or on a Monday and Wednesday pattern will still meet on April 2.

We look forward to seeing you today at ISD!

Submitted by: Connie M. Pileri, assistant dean for Student Affairs/director, Event Services

On behalf of the Canisius Earning Excellence Program (CEEP) Review and Recommendation Committee, Yvonne Widenor, assistant vice president for academic affairs, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025-26 CEEP Scholarships.

The scholarships were granted to 62 students with 38 faculty members serving as mentors. The list of this year’s recipients are listed above and can also be viewed by clicking here.

CEEP is an exciting learning and earning opportunity that pairs students with Canisius faculty for educational and rewarding experiences. These positions are intellectually demanding, create opportunities for applied learning outside the classroom, are closely related to a career or scholarly field and directly related to faculty scholarship. By working with faculty on research-focused projects, students are able to achieve a high level of preparedness for maintaining professional working relationships and for continued studies at the graduate level.

Congratulations to all the recipients!

Submitted by: Amy Beiter, curriculum and student support project associate, Academic Affairs

Please take a moment to nominate a University member for this honor. Only current students, faculty, staff, or administrators are eligible to nominate Canisius University members. For each award category (student and non-student), please identify one or more of the areas listed below that make this person deserving of the award.

The deadline for the submission of this form is Friday, April 11, 2025

Submitted by: ALANA Student Center

It’s a busy week for Canisius Athletics! Join us for some great events.

Today, Wednesday, 4/2 at 4:00 p.m. is Faculty/Staff Appreciation Day hosted by Women’s Lacrosse. The Women’s Lacrosse team takes on MAAC-leading Sacred Heart in a massive game at the Demske Sports Complex. Stop by after Ignatian Scholarship Day, and stay for the faculty and staff recognition ceremony.

Softball hosts Rider for a three-game series on Saturday and Sunday, April 5 and 6.  Following a dominant series win against Mount St. Mary’s, the Griffs host the Rider Broncs for a doubleheader on Saturday at the Demske Sports Complex at 12:00 and 2:00 p.m. The series concludes Sunday with a 12 PM game.

Submitted by: Mike Kochczynski, Assistant Athletic Director – Department of Athletics

We are excited to announce that Canisius Giving Day is just around the corner! Our annual 24-hour online celebration of community and giving – is only ONE week away!

Canisius Giving Day is all about participation – our goal for the day is to reach 1,400 donations. Faculty and staff are invited to make an early gift to the area of the university that means the most to them, which will help us reach that goal! 

Also, be sure to check out this year’s Giving Day kick-off video on social media, which proudly showcases our incredible students – enjoy!

Canisius is in the final stages of our reaccreditation process with the Middle States Commission for Higher Education. A team of peer reviewers will be on campus from April 7-9 to meet with various members of the campus community. The schedule and participants are set by the review team. Members of campus are invited to the following open forums:

Faculty: Monday, April 7, from 2-2:45 p.m. (Student Center – Grupp Fireside Lounge)

Staff: Tuesday, April 8, from 2-2:45 p.m. (Student Center – Regis Room)

The open forums are a chance to have your voice heard. It is most helpful if you’ve reviewed the standards and self-study, as the visiting team will be focused on issues specific to the MSCHE standards.

The visiting team will report their findings to the campus community on Wednesday, April 9, from 9-9:30 a.m. in the Student Center Regis Room. This is an opportunity to hear directly from the visit team, but there is no interaction or opportunity for campus members to comment.

A link to the MSCHE standards, the self study report, and additional information can be found on the portal.

Join students, faculty, and staff together for our last Canisius Conversation of the semester this Thursday, April 3, from 4-5 p.m. in the Library Learning Center. This month, we will have Canisius alum Danessia Scott-Warren facilitate a conversation on how to engage with people who are different from you in a respectful way. All are invited and encouraged to take part in this community dialogue space.

Submitted by: Spencer Liechty, AVP for Mission Integration

In a continuing series of presentations tied to our strategic plan and campus operations, Vice President and Director of Athletics Bill Maher will discuss some of the key issues that have shaped the national landscape for intercollegiate athletics and understanding how Canisius is responding. The forum will also provide some perspective on Canisius relative to our conference peers, financial and academic profile information, and some of the key initiatives that are elements of our University’s strategic plan.

All are invited to attend this hourlong presentation followed by Q&A on Thursday, April 10, at 2 p.m. in Grupp Fireside Lounge. Hope to see you there!

Submitted by: Denise Flannery, Executive Associate, Office of the President

Join members from across the Buffalo community for an event to encourage public awareness and discussion of realities facing asylum seekers and refugee communities at the U.S. borders and in Western New York.

There will be a viewing of a new, 30-minute documentary with voices from the southern border, “Running to Stand Still: Migrants Search for Hope in the Promised Land,” followed by a community forum with the filmmaker, local resettlement agencies and activist organizations. The primary goal for this event is to provide a deeper understanding of practical and moral issues around migration and asylum. 

Montante Cultural Center at Canisius University on Saturday, April 5, from 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Submitted by: Spencer Liechty, AVP for Mission Integration

Congrats to Canisius University Class of 2017 alumnus and current Department of Kinesiology adjunct faculty member Alex Peters, PT, DPT, SCS, ATC on publication of a study on concussion in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine.

The study, “Practical Management: Guidelines to Perform the Pediatric Concussion Treadmill Test,” describe an age-appropriate treadmill test to help diagnose and treat concussions in young children aged 5 to 12. While existing tests are designed for teens and adults, the Pediatric Concussion Treadmill Test (PCTT) uses a child-friendly approach with appropriate walking speeds and symptom tracking. This test helps doctors assess how a concussion affects a child’s ability to exercise and guides personalized treatment plans to speed up recovery. By providing a safe and effective way to evaluate concussion symptoms in younger kids, the PCTT fills an important gap in concussion care.

Submitted by: Karl F. Kozlowski, Professor and Chair, Department of Kinesiology

Our next big opportunity to shape the Class of 2029 is Saturday at Accepted Students Day, and the momentum is building! We currently have 136 students registered and counting, and of those, 65 have already deposited. Accepted Student Day is a pivotal moment for students still deciding if Canisius is their future home, and your engagement can make all the difference.

This event is more than just a visit — it’s their chance to envision themselves here, feel the energy of our campus, and connect with the people who will shape their college experience. Their interactions with you in sessions, at lunch, or in casual conversations play a crucial part in their decision to enroll.

Applications and deposits update

Freshman applications are at 3,739, up by about 140. Transfer applications are at 276, which is up about 50. Additionally, we are up in readmit applications. Out of our applications, we are at 214 freshman deposits (up 40), 19 transfer deposits, and 3 readmit deposits, brining us to a total of 236 deposits towards our fall 2025 goal!

We are incredibly grateful for your time, enthusiasm, and commitment to making this day an unforgettable experience for our future Griffs. Thank you for bringing your passion into the day. It truly is an all-hands-on-deck effort, and we couldn’t do it without you.

Let’s make this a day that seals the deal!

Submitted by: Sarah Calzonetti, Director of Undergraduate Admissions, Admissions

Vice President for Academic Affairs Bridget Niland, PhD, spoke with The Buffalo News for a March 26 story about the growing trend of adult learners returning to college to complete their degrees. Niland highlighted how institutions like Canisius are increasing support for students who have some college credits but no degree, offering targeted scholarships, flexible class options, and personalized academic advising to help them succeed. Read the story on The Buffalo News.

Submitted by: University Communications

Join the Canisius Adult Lifelong Learners Institute at their Spring 2025 Book Club. This semester we are looking at David Gibbins’ A History of the World in Twelve Shipwrecks. Gibbins, an experienced scuba diver and archaeologist, creates “a narrative of human history told through the archaeological discoveries of twelve shipwrecks across time.” Bring your lunch and join the conversation. No prior reading of the book is required. No prior knowledge of the subject is required. We will meet in the Library Rm. 103 at 1:00 PM.

Submitted by: Kristina Laun, Book Club Hostess, CALLI

Please join ArtsCanisius as we celebrate the work of Helen Beckley-Forest. Six works by this local artist will be on view in the Peter A. and Mary Lou Vogt Gallery in the Andrew L. Bouwhuis, SJ Library beginning Wednesday, March 26. We will also host a reception outside the gallery from 2-3 p.m. Friday, March 28, and everyone is welcome. Light refreshments will be served, and the artist will be there to discuss her work.

Beckley-Forest noted, “This selection of abstracted landscapes explores the interiority of nature and self; I pursue the concentration of energy present in the natural world while creating a space safe from the anxieties of current events: eco-anxieties, pandemics, wars, etc. The forms in each piece are drawn from the familiarities of nature, yet are painted with a selection of soft, fantastical colors, whisking the viewer into a different realm. My work investigates the differences between painting on stretched vs. unstretched canvas and how that reveals or limits the expanse of a landscape. Like the processes of nature, my work is slow and patient. I take my time laying down each stitch and brushstroke, allowing the materials to guide me into a world of mindfulness and discovery. By peering into these small windows, I offer others a time and place to reflect, meditate and take a mental break.”

The exhibit will run from March 28 until May 30. For additional information, please contact Yvonne Widenor, Director of ArtsCanisius, at widenory@canisius.edu

Submitted by: Yvonne K. Widenor, Assistant Professor, Art History, MLLC, AVPAA, Director, ArtsCanisius

TIAA Financial Consultant Ed Haspett will be on campus again for one-on-one sessions on Thursday, April 3, in the Student Center Conference Room 205, and still has open spots. This is a great opportunity for employees to discuss their TIAA 403(b) retirement plans and receive personalized financial guidance.

Visit the TIAA website to schedule your session

Learn more about Ed Haspett

Submitted by: Bethany Voorhees, HR Coordinator, Human Resources

The new “View Schedule” button in iAdvise allows users to email or print student schedules

ITS is pleased to announce our migration from Self Service Banner 8 (SSB8) to version 9 (SSB9) is now complete. This vendor-mandated upgrade provides a modern user experience and is built on a more secure technology platform.

With the sunset of SSB8 Faculty Services, it was reported that the new SSB9 Faculty Dashboard does not allow for student schedule emailing/printing. Since that is important functionality when registering new students, ITS has programmed this feature into iAdvise. To email/print a student schedule from iAdvise, select your student, then navigate to Academics, Courses/Degree and use the purple button labeled View Schedule to select your term for viewing/printing. Please consider emailing student schedules when appropriate, rather than printing.

The Student Profile allows all registered students to email their schedule, or to create calendar files for upload to their digital calendar. View the “Look-up your Class Schedule” tutorial here to learn more.

All other functionalities previously found in SSB8 Faculty Services can be found in SSB9 Faculty Dashboard, including grade entry, class list, week at a glance, student search, and more, under Faculty Services, Faculty Dashboard link in the portal navigation menu.

If you have any question or concerns, or think your missing other functionality, please contact the help desk at helpdesk@canisius.edu or at 716-888-8340.

Submitted by: Michele Folsom, Director of Administrative Computing

The Buffalo Sewer Authority is currently working on Florida Street and has requested to use part of the Spillman Lot to hold equipment. This project will not interfere with the Canisius campus and should not hinder any parking. Should you have any concerns, please contact Student Affairs.

Submitted by: University Communications

TIAA, the university’s retirement plan provider, is hosting virtual information sessions. Check the attached PDF for a look at the 2025 list of days and times for the second quarter, and mark your calendars.

Visit the TIAA website for the full schedule of webinars for 2025 and to register

Submitted by: Bethany Voorhees, HR Coordinator, Human Resources

Did you know? Canisius alumnus Alex Sidare’s award-winning honors thesis estimated that between 700,000 and 2.5 million birds die annually in Western New York alone from residential window collisions. When commercial buildings are included in estimates, this would at least double. Recent research suggests these numbers may be underestimates. One of the ways that our community can be more bird friendly is to participate in the national Lights Out Program.

Adopting this practice here in WNY is particularly important as our region is a central place for migratory birds moving through our Niagara River Corridor Globally Significant Important Bird Area. In WNY, we have a particular responsibility for the impact of light pollution given our region’s history as “The City of Light” – one of the first places to have electricity in the world! Light pollution doesn’t just harm birds either – it plays a huge role in our ecology!

What can you do to help?

1. Visit BirdCast (co-developed by Canisius alumnus Kyle Horton!) to see peak migration times when these actions are most important but consider adopting them year-round to protect our local birds as well as those visiting on their migration journey.
2. Turn off all nonessential (don’t compromise safety) lights and close window blinds between 10 p.m. and dawn from April 15-May 31 and Aug. 15-Nov. 15.
3. Encourage your communities to adopt these practices (here is a sample letter adapted from National Audubon’s resources – also see https://birdcast.info/science-to-action/lights-out/).
4. Keep outdoor cats inside at least during peak times of bird activity. We also call attention to the role of outdoor cats in bird mortality annually with a staggering estimate of 1-4 BILLION birds killed by cats in the U.S. alone each year. And like window collisions, this is likely an underestimate. Research also suggests that staying indoors is better for your cat’s health. Read more about outdoor cats and their effects on birds.

What to do when you find:

• A dead bird: report tohttps://dbird.org/ and https://www.birdmapper.org/.
• An injured bird:
  • • See https://flap.org/finding-an-injured-bird/ for information.
    • In WNY, contact Messinger Woods or Erie County SPCA Wildlife Department.

Submitted by: Jenn Lodi-Smith, Professor, Psychology

JCPenney’s Suit-Up event is on Sunday, March 30, from 3-6 p.m. at the Galleria Mall! Canisius students, faculty, staff, and friends can enjoy exclusive discounts up to 45% on career wear, shoes and accessories.

Visit JCPenney Beauty for a FREE mini service, and get professionally measured for the perfect fit.

Stop by the Career Development’s table at the upper-level near the south entrance (facing Macy’s) to pick up your discount passes. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to upgrade your professional wardrobe!

Submitted by: Carol Cullinan, Associate Director, Career Development

Faculty and staff are invited attend a a presentation on the University’s Financial Sustainability and Future Forecast, led by Vice President for Finance and Administration Bob Baumet and Vice President for Advancement Dianna Civello. Topics to be covered include:

• A five-year lookback
• Current finances
• Projections for the future
• Strategic fundraising initiatives

Please join for this one-hour presentation on Thursday, March 27, at 1 p.m. in the Regis Room on the second floor of the Student Center.

Submitted by: Denise Flannery, Executive Associate, Office of the President

Example of a university name tag

Do you, your department, or a program that you run require official Canisius University name tags? Are you expecting a new member to join your team? Let the Makerspace Creator Lab create them for you! Here is what you need to know:

• We require a lead time of at least  two weeks for orders of 24 or fewer name tags. For orders greater than 24, contact COLI (email below).
• A material cost will also be incurred. Email COLI for more information.
• Name tags can have up to three lines (see the image above):
  • Name (maximum of 25 characters, but some modifications can be made to fit longer names).
    • Did you or the people you are ordering tags for graduate from Canisius/will graduate from Canisius or have an advanced degree? Add their Canisius graduation year (or expected graduation year) and/or degree abbreviation at the end of the name. Example: Dr. Petey Griffin ’25, or Dr. Petey C. Griffin or Petey Griffin, EdD.
  • The next two lines are optional:
    • Maximum of 36 characters.
    • Typically, one line is job title and the next is the department name or an abbreviation.
    • Or, you can put pronouns and/or degrees.

Submit a name tag request via Google Forms

If you email COLI, we can also accept Excel spreadsheets (preferred) or PDFs. Once we receive the list, we will begin the process of creating the proofs. Once the proofs are approved, student makerspace technicians will begin the process of stamping out name tags. We will email you once the tags are completed for pickup during Makerspace Creator Lab hours.

Questions or need more information? Email COLI at coli@canisius.edu.

Submitted by: Tyler Kron-Piatek, Instructional Designer, COLI

Canisius professor Sue Margulis and UB post-doctoral scholar Ari Hock

Last weekend, Sue Margulis participated in an outreach event hosted by the East Side Parkways Coalition (ESP). ESP is working to shift the focus of the planned Kensington Expressway “capping” to focus more strongly on restoring Humboldt Parkway, prioritizing community health and reconnecting a neighborhood that was bisected when the expressway was built in the 1960s. Sue worked with UB post-doctoral scholar Ari Hock to record the stories of community members sharing their experiences and remembrances about the old Humboldt Parkway, and how it transformed the community and the city of Buffalo.

Submitted by: Sue Margulis, Professor, ABEC and Anthrozoology, Biology

CEOWORLD magazine quoted Shawn O’Rourke, PhD, dean of the Wehle Business School, in an article about the skills shortage facing businesses, and how higher education can help prepare graduates who are workforce-ready. O’Rourke spoke about how experiential learning, which is core to Canisius’ academic experience, helps students develop skills such as critical thinking, teamwork and communication, all of which are critical to business success. Read the article in CEOWORLD

Submitted by: University Communications

The Canisius University Women & Gender Studies program is happy to announce the 2025 Lorch Award winners. The Dr. I. Joan Lorch Award for Women & Gender Studies honors a person who has made a significant contribution to women and who exemplifies the pursuit of liberation and justice regarding sex, gender, and sexuality.

In the category of Canisius University student, the winner is Brianna Nosal’25, strategic communication. In the category of Canisius University employee, the winner is: Dr. Anita Butera, associate professor of criminal justice. In the category of a community organization or person, the winner is Victoria Pérez, the co-founder and director of Buffalo’s bilingual Hispanic theatre, Raíces Theatre Company. We congratulate all of these deserving people who help to make our world a more equitable world each day.

We heartily welcome everyone to celebrate Women’s History Month — and these three awardees in particular — on Monday, March 24 from 4-6 p.m. in the Grupp Fireside Lounge.

The event will begin with students from the Diversity Committee honoring women on campus who have uplifted and empowered others, and end with the announcement and celebration of the Lorch winners. Please join us for feminist solidarity and inspiration.

Submitted by: Tanya Loughead, Professor, Department of Philosophy and Women & Gender Studies

Buffalo’s poet laureate Aitina Fareed-Cooke

On Thursday, April 3, at 7 PM, in Grupp Fireside lounge, Aitina Fareed-Cooke, the poet laureate of Buffalo, will perform under the auspices of the Canisius Contemporary Writers Series.

A question-and-answer session and reception will follow. The event will be livestreamed: For a link, email series coordinator Mick Cochrane: cochrane@canisius.edu

Aitina Fareed-Cooke was born and raised in Buffalo and earned a BA in English and MA in education from Buffalo State University. She is a multifaceted artist—wife, mother, creative arts strategist, national recording artist, and Buffalo’s current poet laureate. She founded Get Fokus’d Productions, an award-winning media arts company dedicated to collaborating with emerging and professional artists to produce “human-first” narratives through digital storytelling. Among her awards are 43 North’s Ignite Buffalo People’s Choice Award, Buffalo State University’s Young Alumnus Achievement Award, a Citizens Bank Community Champion award, and the Arts Services Inc. Trailblazer of the Arts Award.

Founded with a grant from the John R. Oishei Foundation and continued through the Peter Canisius Distinguished Teaching Professorship Program, the writer series is generously supported today by the Hassett, Scoma, and Lowery Endowments, and by gifts from its loyal patrons; cooperating partners are The Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, Just Buffalo Literary Center, and Talking Leaves Books.

Learn more about Aitina Fareed-Cooke and the writers series

Submitted by: Mick Cochrane, Professor, English

President Stoute was featured in the Viewpoints section of The Buffalo News on Sunday, March 16, with an op-ed addressing the growing inequality in college athletics and its impact on March Madness, the beloved NCAA basketball tournament. In the op-ed, titled “March Sadness: The Curtain Call for Cinderella Stories,” President Stoute examines how financial disparities between power conference schools and smaller institutions threaten the future of underdog runs that have long defined March Madness. Read the op-ed on The Buffalo News.

Julie Anna Golebiewski, PhD, weighed in with The Buffalo News on economic concerns facing the Buffalo Niagara region, warning that “an unwanted trade war is going to impact us disproportionately here, and in a negative way.” She cautioned that given the region’s slow recovery from pandemic job losses, combined with new threats from tariffs, stock market volatility, and federal job cuts, “it’s hard to see things continuing on the path that they had been on, with everything else that’s going on.” Read the story on The Buffalo News.

Submitted by: University Communications

Aidan Ryan ’14, creative writing, recently discussed his forthcoming first book I Am Here You Are Not I Love You (Univ. of Iowa Press) on the Fill to Capacity podcast, hosted by Pat Benincasa. The book is in part a biography of Ryan’s aunt and uncle, the visual artists Cindy Suffoletto and Andrew Topolski, and in part a memoir tracing their influence on Ryan’s own path into the arts and development as a writer.

The podcast episode, entitled “A Dialogue Across Time & Absence,” explores the turbulent and competitive New York art scene and touches on the topics of family, creativity, the sacrifices demanded by a life in the arts, and grief.

Listen to the episode on YouTube

Read more about Ryan’s book I Am Here You Are Not I Love You

Submitted by: Mick Cochrane, Professor, English

Coding was among the top activities offered to the Saturday Academy students.

Students enrolled in EDU 250, Foundation of Education, volunteered a weekend morning at a local Buffalo Public School Saturday Academy. Students were present at Hamlin Park Academy (BPS #74) on March 8 to assist children and families with games and activities. A big hit with the children was computer coding, sponsored by TechBuffalo. Other students were engaged in three-on-three basketball tournaments, country line dancing, crafts, yoga, and hair braiding. Canisius has committed to sending volunteers to assist with five Hamlin Park Saturday Academies during the 24-25 school year.

Submitted by: Elizabeth Turner, Director of Educational Partnerships

We are grateful for Dr. Jen Snekser as she shared a template for Ignatian Day Scholarship posters and recorded a video with poster creation suggestions and advice. Access the resources here and share with your students.

This year’s Ignatian Scholarship Day is April 2. The annual campuswide tradition offers our students an opportunity to showcase their research, creative talents, and distinctive collaborations with our faculty through the Canisius Earning Excellence Program.

Submitted by: Yvonne K. Widenor, Assistant Professor, Art History, MLLC, AVPAA

Petey’s Food Pantry is collecting donations of new and unopened hygiene items now through April. Make a difference in a student’s life today by donating to the pantry.

Submitted by: Dorcus Nzayisenga, Manager, Petey’s Pantry, Student Life

Canisius University’s Director of Graduate Admissions Amo Kubeyinje spoke about emerging trends in international student recruitment on the March 11 episode of Keystone Higher Ed Chats. During the conversation, Kubeyinje discussed the challenges and opportunities that are shaping higher education recruitment across the globe and specifically in Africa. Kubeyinje, who emigrated from Nigeria to the U.S., also shared insights into the evolving landscape of international student mobility in Africa.  Listen to the podcast on Spotify.

Submitted by: University Communications

The EdUp Experience podcast hosted President Steve Stoute on its March 10 episode. The hourlong interview focused on how the university’s first-gen president is working to make a Canisius education accessible. The conversation touched on how Canisius is eliminating barriers to student success and expanding student-centered education, and how institutions can best balance tradition and transformation. The EdUp Experience is considered America’s leading higher education podcast and a go-to resource for education leaders. Listen to the interview on the EdUp Experience.

Submitted by: University Communications

Richard Reitsma, PhD, has a new publication out in Spanish about the first LGBTQIA+ center in Cuba. The article is part of a first-of-its-kind anthology on gender studies of and for Latin America titled “Senderos de los Estudios Feministas del Género en América Latina” (“Pathways in Feminist Gender Studies in Latin America”). The volume is available as open access in both a digital live interactive volume (geocaching included) and as a traditional PDF.

Reitsma’s contribution, “De Santa Clara, Cuba para el Mundo: el poder del Centro Cultural El Mejunje de transformar a la gente solitaria en gente solidaria” (“From Santa Clara Cuba to the World: The Power of the Mejunje Cultural Center to Transform Solitary into Solidarity”), can be found on pages 234-250. The article focuses on some of the field research Reitsma did during his last sabbatical and includes interviews with the founders and participants of the center, including excursions to bring drag shows and other pedagogical theater to the countryside.

Read the open-access interactive article.

Submitted by: University Communications

The Canisius Borders and Migration Initiative, Department of Sociology, and Andrew L. Bouwhuis, SJ Library present a book launch and panel discussion. Dr. Secil Ertorer, associate professor in the Department of Sociology at Canisius, will be launching her new book “Racism and Identity in a Xenophobic World: A Post-Pandemic Perspective.” Her brief presentation will be followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion on the politics of identity, exclusion, and division. 

The panelists inbclude Dr. Richard Reitsma, director of the Borders and Migration Initiative, and Dr. Anita Butera, director of Criminal Justice Studies, and they will engage with some of the most pressing questions of policies of division. Join us for an insightful conversation on these urgent issues and their impact on our world today.

Date: March 25 at noon

Location: Library Learning Center at the Andrew L. Bouwhuis, SJ Library.

This event is free and open to the public

Submitted by: Makayla Cole, Administrative Associate, College of Arts & Sciences

WBFO reported on Canisius’ inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit, which took place on Friday, March 7. The event featured several notable female alumni speakers including WNBA’s New York Liberty CEO Keia Clarke ’03. The sold-out event highlighted the challenges women face in leadership roles and emphasized the importance of mentorship. Read or listen to the story.

Submitted by: University Communications

On Feb. 26, students in Prof. Mick Cochrane’s All-College Honors seminar “Bob Dylan, American Genius” were treated to a performance by Buffalo musicians Cathy Carfagna and Dave Meinzer.

Carfagna and Meinzer played a selection of Dylan songs—including “Girl from the North Country,” “My Back Pages,” “Ballad of a Thin,” and “Like A Rolling Stone”—as well as several of their own compositions. They discussed Dylan’s growth as a performer and songwriter, his increasing musical sophistication, and his many influences, such as Woody Guthrie, Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry. A special highlight was their performance of “Subterranean Homesick Blues” with additional original verses written by members of the seminar.

“It is one thing to listen to Dylan’s music through videos and sound files,” one student commented, “but to hear and see it played live was another experience entirely.” Another remarked, “It was very cool to hear a musician’s perspective!”

Meinzer is a member of The Buffalo Music Hall of Fame who has released his own songs on a number of CDs, most recently Tambourine. Carfagna has performed and released music both as a solo artist and as a member of several groups, including the Jazzabels, the Vores, and the Black Rock Beatles.

The event was made possible through the support of the Thomas Connelly Endowment.

Submitted by: Mick Cochrane, Professor, English

The inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit, which is being held today, Friday, March 7, is generating some significant excitement, in part due to its keynote speaker, Keia Clarke. The 2003 alumna and CEO of the WNBA’s New York Liberty was featured in the March 5 edition of The Buffalo News. Clarke also shared her journey from Canisius to the mainstage of professional women’s sports with WBFO Radio. Listen to the interview on WBFO (starts at the 32-minute mark).

Assistant Professor of Political Science Shyam Sriram, PhD, spoke with WBFO Radio on March 5 about the potential challenges facing New York Governor Kathy Hochul in her 2024 re-election bid. Sriram discussed the growing tensions between Hochul and Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, speculating that Delgado may step away from his role to possibly challenge Hochul in the upcoming election. Read or listen to the story on WBFO

WGRZ-TV Channel 2 interviewed Associate Accounting Professor Shannon Jemiolo, PhD, whose students are gaining valuable real-world experience by offering free tax preparation services through the IRS’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The initiative helps community members with annual incomes of $67,000 or less, while providing students with hands-on training in tax laws, software and client interaction. Watch the story.

Submitted by: University Communications

Join CALLI for Part 2 of our adventure in Celtic medieval literature, this time featuring one of the most important texts from Wales, “The Mabinogian.” This text is from a golden age of Welsh literature that flourished in the late Middle Ages. No prior knowledge of the topic is necessary, and one need not have attended Part 1 of this course.

Led by Prof. Johanna Fisher, this six-week online course begins Tuesday, March 18, at noon.

Learn more about the course on the CALLI blog

Submitted by: Kristina Laun, Website and Social Media Administrator, CALLI

TIAA Financial Consultant Ed Haspett will be on campus for one-on-one sessions on Tuesday, March 11, in the Student Center Conference Room 205. This is a great opportunity for employees to discuss their TIAA 403(b) retirement plans and receive personalized financial guidance.

Visit the TIAA website to schedule your session

Learn more about Ed Haspett

Submitted by: Bethany Voorhees, HR coordinator, Human Resources

New York State requires employers to provide annual harassment training of all employees annually. The training for 2024-2025 needs to be completed by all employees by March 15, 2025.  The course can be taken by logging into CollaborNation and clicking on the course called “Combating Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (NY).” The course will have a blue banner that says “Not Started” (see attached picture).

To log in, the username is the employee’s Canisius email address and the initial password is Welcome123. Employees will be prompted to reset their password. If Welcome123 is not working, please click on forgot password and reset your password.

If you are experiencing problems with accessing the course, before contacting HR, verify that all pop-up blockers have been turned off and clear the cache. If there are still issues after trying these two items, please email HR at HR@canisius.edu . HR will speak with CollaborNation to address the issue and provide the employee with an update once the issue is resolved.

Submitted by: Bethany Voorhees, HR coordinator, Human Resources

Sip sip hooray! It’s Employee Appreciation Day on March 7! As a small token of our appreciation for all of the good work you do and your commitment to our campus community, please take a break and enjoy a medium-sized beverage from the Tim Hortons on campus! Faculty and staff can stop by Tim Hortons on Friday, March 7, or Monday, March 10, to receive your complimentary beverage. No voucher is required this year. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Human Resources at hr@canisius.edu.

Submitted by: Lynn Incardona, HR Associate, Human Resources

With a win over Rider this Thursday night, March 6, at 6 p.m., Canisius Women’s Basketball qualifies for the MAAC Tournament.

While every game matters, this one matters just a bit more. We hope to see you (and especially hear you) at the Koessler Athletic Center on Thursday night. Coach Swafford and this team have over-achieved. They work incredibly hard and they will make you proud win or lose, but they could really use your support on Thursday night.

Get a discounted ticket to help sweeten the deal

Thanks and go Griffs!

Submitted by: Mike Kochczynski, Assistant Athletic Director, Department of Athletics

Ever wonder how university stories cut through the noise and into the headlines? Or how the Instagram post of Petey that you liked came together? Or even who produces this thing here, The Dome? Meet the communications professionals who tell the Canisius story and learn more about their work at the upcoming forum on public relations taking place Monday, March 31, at 1 p.m. in the Grupp Fireside Lounge. This hourlong forum will feature a presentation on University Communications’ strategy and products, helpful tips on improving your own communications and collaborating with the unit, and an open question-and-answer session.

Submitted by: University Communications

Danielle Ianni, PhD, discussed how to turn recruitment promises into real results with University Business. In a guest contributed article, the vice president for enrollment management and university communications shared how information gleaned during the recruitment process can be a strong indicator of a student’s ability to be successful. Read the article on University Business.

WBFO Radio reported on the inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit happening on Friday, March 7. Reporter Alex Simone highlighted interviews with alumnae Hon. Lenora Foote-Beavers ’92, a retired judge, and Teresa Amabile ’72, PhD, an emerita professor at Harvard University. Foote-Beavers emphasized the importance of networking in her success and expressed excitement about bringing such an opportunity to Buffalo, while Amabile shared her pride in participating in the summit and stressed the need for more women’s voices in leadership. Read or listen to the story on WBFO.

Submitted by: University Communications

Join students, faculty and staff for our monthly Canisius Conversation series this Thursday, March 6, from 4-5 p.m. in the Library Learning Center. Our topic will continue to be recent federal executive actions. We will discuss the differences between executive orders and legislation and ask, how should change occur in the United States?

The purpose of the Canisius Conversations series is to create space for faculty, staff and students to come together and discuss important issues that affect our community in a constructive respectful way. All are encouraged to take part in this community dialogue space.

Submitted by: Spencer Liechty, Assistant Vice President for Mission Integration

Faculty and staff are invited to the monthly AI and Pedagogy Lunch and Learn! No RSVP necessary! The first meeting will be on Tuesday, March 25, at 1 p.m.

During these Teams meetings, we discuss the current state of AI, new or interesting AI tools, how AI can be used in our pedagogy and more! Feel free to enjoy your lunch at the same time too.

If interested or have topics to suggest related to AI and Pedagogy, please email COLI at coli@canisius.edu for the calendar invitation. Once you receive it, feel free to share it with colleagues!

Submitted by: Tyler Kron-Piatek, Instructional Designer, COLI

COLI, in partnership with Academic Affairs, is looking for session leaders for the upcoming Summer Faculty Development Week, taking place Aug. 11-14. Topics usually are centered around pedagogy and range from novel practices to roundtable discussions on using particular tools, such as podcasting, using Panopto for videos, Hypothes.is for social annotations and more. We have also had sessions talking about best practices for internship courses and how to get started developing new programs and advanced certificates at Canisius.

Check out last year’s FacDev and the 2023 FacDev promotional pages for more ideas. Interested faculty (or staff!) can fill out the Session Information Form.

Those that are simply interested in attending Summer FacDev 2025, stay tuned to the COLI Blog and The Dome!

Questions? Contact COLI at coli@canisius.edu.

Submitted by: Tyler Kron-Piatek, Instructional Designer, COLI

Ramadan is a holiday practiced by Muslims* where they focus on introspection, communal prayer, and religious fasting. This year, Ramadan will take place from Feb. 28-March 29**.

Here is some information about Ramadan:

• Individuals refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and intimate contact from dawn to sunset.
• Individuals increase their focus on personal restraint, proper conduct, and empathy with the less fortunate through giving to charity and engaging in local projects.
• Muslims who have reached puberty are obligated to fast. Individuals who are not at puberty may choose to fast anyway. Exemptions are made for individuals in situations where fasting would be a hardship, such as illness, pregnancy, nursing, etc.

In an effort to support the members of our community, here are some items for your consideration:

• New York Education Law section 224-A outlines the requirements for academic accommodations.
• Please be flexible with scheduling, as individuals may need to pray during class, meetings, etc.
• Due to fasting, individuals may struggle to concentrate. Consider allowing individuals to keep their cameras off during any virtual classes, meetings, etc., or to take a quick break if needed.
• Individuals may begin to wear hijabs during this month. Remember, it is not the individual’s responsibility to educate the community.
• Prayer rooms are available in the library for individuals to use if needed. Additionally, there is group prayer on Fridays from 12-1:00 p.m. in Science Hall Room 105. Offices may also want to consider identifying a designated space for prayer. If you would like signage to help identify these spaces, please reach out to the ALANA Student Center.

Chartwells will provide Halal sourced foods in the Social Dining Hall. Breakfast packs are available upon request. The dining hall will be open Sunday-Thursday until 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday until 7 p.m.

Consistent with our institutional statement on diversity and inclusion, these efforts will help us achieve our goals of “creating a culture of acceptance, awareness, learning, respect, and understanding inside and outside of the classroom.”

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Fatima Rodriguez Johnson, Associate Dean for Diversity & Inclusion, at rodrig23@canisius.edu.

*The term Muslim refers to individuals who practice the religion of Islam.

**Dates may vary depending on the individual’s religious school of thought.

Submitted by: Fatima Rodriguez Johnson, Associate Dean for Diversity & Inclusion, Academic Affairs

The digital displays around campus have been updated with new functionality to feature campus events and information, and faculty and staff can now submit event and club information for all to see on campus TVs. To help promote your event, create an event in GriffConnect will promote it to all students, faculty, and staff by sharing across the digital displays and Today@Canisius. 

The process requires the use of GriffConnect, a tool our students use that is now available to all. Follow the steps below to submit your event:

1. Log on to GriffConnect using your Canisius credentials. (Please note if you have not logged in before, it will ask you to complete a quick onboarding.)
2. To help promote events in Today@Canisius, you must have a department created on GriffConnect. If one hasn’t been made for your area yet, you can create one. 
   1. Creating a group will help you amplify your reach to everyone across campus and give you access to many different resources (attendance tracking, wider audience publishing, communication analytics, and direct student population communication).
   2. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact Jason Francey at franceyj@canisius.edu.
3. Now, going forward, to submit items for the campus digital signage, you will just need to submit a form. 
   1. Your department will need a GriffConnect page to complete this form.
4. To learn more about all the features GriffConnect has to offer to help your team engage students you can watch this short video.

The editorial team of members of University Communications or Student Life will reach out if anything needs to be fixed.

Please reach out to franceyj@canisius.edu with any questions.

Submitted by: Josh Kruk (krukj@canisius.edu) and Mike Yates (yatesm@canisius.edu)

COLI is offering two new 30-minute workshops dealing with Microsoft Teams:

The first is Microsoft Teams for Virtual Meetings. In this workshop, we will go over how to conduct virtual meetings with Microsoft Teams including starting a meeting, recording a meeting (and where to find said recording), screen sharing, and breakout rooms. If there is time, we will also go over how to share documents (that you and participants can edit live!) and Microsoft Whiteboard.

The second is Microsoft Teams: Chats and Teams. In this workshop, we go over how to start a chat in Microsoft Teams. Similar to text messaging, this helps prevent the need for a flood of emails, saving our inboxes. We will also go over how to create a Teams, which is useful for offices and departments for organizing chats, securely sharing files, and more.

To see dates and times (and other Workshops), check out the Faculty Development Opportunities Wiki Page. Can’t wait or want to get started with Teams now? Check out the Microsoft Office Support Wiki Page.

Submitted by: Tyler Kron-Piatek, Instructional Designer, COLI