From record enrollment to campus improvements, these are just highlights that defined an exceptional fall semester as Canisius University delivered a remarkable start to its 2025-26 academic year. Read the full story here.
A winning result: Canisius Athletics’ “More Than a Game” campaign raises $340K for student-athletes. Read a recap of the story here.
With decades of leadership in law enforcement and campus safety, Randy Szukala brings experience, approachability and a deep commitment to student well-being to Canisius University.
Can you share a bit about your background and what brought you to Canisius University?
I retired after 26 years with the North Tonawanda Police Department, where I served as police chief. During that time, I also worked as a field training officer, domestic violence liaison to the Niagara County District Attorney, defensive tactics and general topics instructor, and SWAT team leader.
After retiring, I spent seven years as assistant director of campus safety at Niagara University and one year as director at Medaille University, where I also taught several classes. I hold a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in public administration.
Coming to Canisius allowed me to stay connected to the college community and work directly with students, many of whom are experiencing independence for the first time.
How do you see campus safety contributing to a welcoming and inclusive environment?
Campus safety officers are often among the first people new students and families meet when they arrive. First impressions matter, and a simple interaction—like giving directions—can leave a lasting impact.
I make it a priority to stay engaged at campus events and ensure that our staff feels comfortable interacting with everyone in a positive, respectful way while maintaining a safe environment.
What are one or two priorities you’ve focused on in this position?
Visibility and approachability are key. People feel safer when they regularly see the individuals responsible for keeping them safe. Students, faculty and staff should feel comfortable approaching campus safety with concerns or questions.
I expect our team to either address issues directly or connect people with the right resources to resolve them.
What advice would you give students and employees about staying safe and engaged on campus?
A college campus is no different than anywhere else we go in our daily lives. The most important advice is to be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation.
Most crimes are crimes of opportunity, and awareness is one of the strongest tools we have to reduce risk.
When you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your time?
My wife and I enjoy traveling when we can, but most of our time is spent cheering on our grandkids—whether it’s hockey and baseball games, dance recitals, or whatever new activity they decide to try next.
“New Faces at Canisius” is a monthly series that introduces new members of the Canisius University community.
Canisius Alumni in Action
From engineering research to digital storytelling, Canisius alumni are making an impact across industries.
Geoff Fortman ’17 reflects on how relationships formed in the classroom, on the ice, and in the lab shaped his journey to becoming a research engineer at the Michigan Tech Research Institute. Read his story here.
Meanwhile, Christopher Hyzy ’12 and Nick Veronica ’13 are leading the way in creative services, journalism, and digital strategy—showcasing how a Canisius education prepares graduates to be adaptable, ethical, and career-ready in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Read their story here.
America Media, the Jesuit Review of Faith and Culture, has announced a new university partnerships program, wherein current students, faculty and staff at each of the Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States can now access America‘s digital content for free.
You can learn more about the effort and register for an account through your school’s specific link here on this page.
