David Moran, PhD, assistant professor of counseling and school counseling program coordinator in Canisius University’s Department of Counseling and Human Services, served as a facilitator at St. Francis High School’s inaugural mental health symposium on December 10.
The event marked the beginning of a monthly initiative at the all-boys high school designed to support students’ mental health needs across the entire school community. Following an introductory presentation on mental health by representatives from Mental Health Advocates of Western New York, Moran led a breakout session focused specifically on men’s mental health.
“High school boys are navigating adolescence—a time marked by changes that signify they are no longer a boy while grappling with how to engage with manhood,” Moran explained. “They need time and space to openly process mental health challenges.”
Moran’s session provided context for mental health care tailored to emerging young men, introducing students to mental health both as an illness requiring treatment and as ongoing maintenance necessary for wellbeing.
The symposium addresses a critical need, as untreated mental health challenges during adolescence can impede healthy development and academic success.
“As professional counselors, we understand human growth and development, and how neglecting one’s mental health can affect not only academic performance but also college and career options after graduation,” Moran said.
Proud Griff Kristen Brill ’89 has built a career in advancement rooted in connecting alumni and donors to opportunities that make a difference. She began in the field as a graduate intern at the Indiana University Foundation, later holding roles at Indiana and the University at Buffalo. This past August, she returned to her alma mater as a Leadership Gift Officer—bringing professional expertise, a passion for relationship-building, and a lifelong Griff spirit.
Q: What inspired you to return to Canisius, this time as a Leadership Gift Officer?
A: Ever since my time at Canisius, I’ve known that I wanted to build my career on a college campus—and if that campus happened to be Canisius, all the better. My experiences at Indiana University and UB deepened my love for higher education, and they confirmed that the most meaningful contributions I could make would be here at my alma mater. I feel incredibly fortunate that my journey has brought me back to Canisius.
Q: Looking back on your career, what experiences have been most meaningful in shaping your approach to advancement and relationship-building?
A: Some of the most important experiences were very early in my career. As a graduate intern at the Indiana University Foundation, I met with alumni who had made significant gifts and helped share their stories. Listening to their deep affection for IU and their desire to give back in transformational ways showed me that advancement was the right career path for me.
Q: As an alumna, what are some of your favorite memories from your time as a student at Canisius?
A: So many! English Club Barn Parties with Dr. Roger Stephenson and Dr. Ken Sroka, feeling like I had a second home in the Student Center club offices—especially the USA and Quadrangle—tutoring in the Academic Development Center on the third floor of Old Main, and Quad Parties. Canisius always felt like a true home away from home.
Q: What excites you most about working with alumni, parents, and friends of the university in your new role?
A: It is a privilege to hear people’s stories about how Canisius shaped their lives. There’s a special Griff connection that alumni share, and I look forward to using my experience to help expand the opportunities for future students to access the education that has meant so much to me.
Q: Outside of work, what are some hobbies or interests that bring you joy?
A: Spending time with my family, friends, and our dog Polly; going to the library and bringing home way too many books; crocheting and knitting while binging the latest must-watch series on Netflix.
“New Faces at Canisius” is a monthly series that introduces new members of the Canisius University community.
Popular Mechanics turned to Canisius physicist Michael Wood, PhD, for insight into a new scientific puzzle: unexplained radio signals coming from beneath Antarctica’s ice, challenging what scientists know about particle behavior. In the article, titled “Mysterious Signals in Antarctica are Baffling Scientists,” Wood offers expert insight as to why the discovery could reshape our understanding of particle physics. Click here to read the story.
CEOWorld Magazine spoke with Associate Dean Karl Kozlowski, PhD, for a December 11 article examining how corporate executives can learn from higher education’s approach to measuring ROI- looking beyond quarterly earnings to long-term leadership development and impact. Kozlowski explained, “Universities have always measured success across generations, not quarters. We think in terms of decades, observing how our graduates impact their communities and grow as ethical leaders.”Click here to read the full story.
Father Fred Betti, SJ, invites the entire Canisius community to take part in the remaining Advent and Christmas celebrations at Christ the King Chapel. The regular weekday schedule of Masses and confessions will continue through the end of the academic semester—unless otherwise noted—so all are welcome to join in prayer and preparation throughout the season.
Dec. 21
Fourth Sunday of Advent 9:30 AM and 7:00 PM Mass
Proud Griff Kristen Brill ’89 has built a career in advancement rooted in connecting alumni and donors to opportunities that make a difference. She began in the field as a graduate intern at the Indiana University Foundation, later holding roles at Indiana and the University at Buffalo. This past August, she returned to her alma mater as a Leadership Gift Officer—bringing professional expertise, a passion for relationship-building, and a lifelong Griff spirit.
Father Fred Betti, SJ, invites the entire Canisius community to take part in the remaining Advent and Christmas celebrations at Christ the King Chapel.