canisius college magazine summer 2010

CANISIUS COLLEGE MAGAZINE • SUMMER 2010

In THE

BAGCanisius educates a new generation

of journalists for the digital age

president’sperspective John J. hurley

The beginning of the fall semester is easily the most

exciting time of the year on a college campus and

Canisius is certainly no exception. A lengthy list of

summer construction and repair projects is complete,

the residence halls are freshly painted, the grounds

are immaculate, and the faculty and staff wait with

anticipation for the students to arrive back on campus.

This fall we have the added element of a new president

on campus, and I must confess to a heightened antici-

pation as I welcome my first entering class to Canisius.

I addressed our new students and their parents at our

welcoming convocation and offered five wishes for them

for their time at Canisius. As you think about your time

at Canisius and your life after Canisius, perhaps these

ring true for you.

• A wish that our new students will discover early on

that this really is the best time of their lives. They

should realize that college is a time when they should

strive to understand the real world with all its positives

and negatives. Ask the big questions, explore the

significant moral dilemmas of our time, read great

books, discuss, argue.

• A wish that they will each develop at least one close relationship with one member of our faculty – a relationship

that will help them unlock their passion for learning and a desire to search for truth.

• A wish that they will develop lifelong friends and learn as much from their fellow students as they will from

faculty in our classrooms. I urged them to search for depth in their relationships and avoid the superficiality

that electronic communication can sometimes create. I assured them that if they form deep friendships,

they will find that their Canisius connection will provide them with lasting meaning in their lives.

• A wish that they will take advantage of all that Canisius has to offer. I urged them to get involved, join

clubs, take leadership positions, go on retreats, and volunteer in our community, so that they will discover

that so many of life’s lessons are learned outside the classroom.

• Finally, a wish that they will discover what Ignatius Loyola discovered in his own life: that life was all about

the search for a relationship with God and that the process of that search brought about a transformation

in people. My wish and hope is that they experience the very best that Catholic, Jesuit higher education has

to offer and that they leave here transformed: smarter (of course), but also wiser, more compassionate,

more inspired, more committed to the poor, the defenseless and the marginalized in the world, and above

all, more fully attuned to the movement of the Spirit in their lives.

A tall order? Perhaps. But making these wishes come true is at the essence of what a Canisius education is

all about. Good luck Class of 2014!

PresidentJohn J. Hurley

Associate Vice President for Public Relations & Executive EditorDebra S. Park MS ’06

Managing EditorAudrey R. Browka

Director of Creative Services & Layout EditorAndalyn Courtney

Contributing DesignersShaun M. Maciejewski Rose Twardowski

Director of Alumni RelationsEileen L. Hudson ’83

Contributing WritersElizabeth M. Bohen ’74, MS ’76 Kristin E. Etu ’91 J. Patrick Greenwald Erin H. Hartnett Eileen C. Herbert ’04 Eileen L. Hudson ’83 Laura B. Marek ’06Marion Mittler Kirsten L. Reppert MS ’07, MBA ’10 Rachel Flammer

PhotographyEric Frick Shaun Maciejewski Tom Wolf ’86

To Contact UsWe are eager to hear your comments about Canisius College Magazine. Please send correspondence to:

Canisius College Magazine2001 Main Street, Lyons Hall Room 209, Buffalo, NY 14208Phone 716-888-2790Fax 716-888-2778

Canisius College Magazine is published four times a year (winter, spring, summer, fall) by Canisius College at: 2001 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14208

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Canisius College Magazine

departments

4 BLUE & GOLD BRIEFS

CAMPUS NEWS AND NOTES

21 FacULty nOtES

fACUlTy NEWS AND UPDATES

22 a LEGacy OF LEaDERShIp

CAMPAigN NEWS AND UPDATES

24 canISIUS cOnnEctIOnS

AlUMNi NEWS AND NOTES

36 aS yOU WERE

STORiES fROM THE PAST

12

32

32 | Alumni ProfileaLL-cOLLEGE hOnORS

Brings out the best in

students for 50 years.

6 | Student ProfilepIctURE thIS!

Travel photography students

see the world through

a global lens.

12 | Cover Story In thE BaG

The digital revolution gives

birth to backpack journalism

at Canisius

18 | Faculty Profile StatE OF thE aRt

Jamie M. O’Neil, MFA, redefines

creative expression with a video

camera and computer technology.

18

contents SUMMER 2010

6

4 | C A N I S I U S C O L L E G E M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 1 0

Major & Minor additionsClassics and environmental studies are the two newest undergraduate degrees offered by Canisius College as of fall 2010.

Environmental studies (canisius.edu/envstudies) is an interdisci-plinary major that examines the culture, economic and social forces that shape the environmental challenges of the 21st century.

It lays the foundation for students to pursue environmental careers in commercial, not-for-profit and government sectors. Coursework includes the science of environmental problems, environment and society, environmental justice and environmental ethics. The program culminates with a social justice capstone, in which students must address environmental issues in the community and use their knowledge and skills to evoke environmental change.

Erin E. Robinson, PhD, associate professor of sociology, is the director of the environmental studies program.

The new bachelor’s degree in classics (canisius.edu/classics) prepares students for graduate work in the field and also trains a new generation of Latin teachers to meet increasing demand across the United States and Canada.

Students may choose one of two tracks: Greek and Hellenic studies or Latin and Roman studies.

Coursework includes compo-nents of classical language,

history and literature, as well as art history, philosophy, political science, and religious studies and theology.

The new major furthers the study of classics at Canisius, which already supports two minors in the field.

The environmental studies and classics programs are two of four new majors introduced for fall 2010. Canisius announced undergraduate programs in creative writing (canisius.edu/creativewriting) and journalism (page 12) earlier this year.

New minor programs are also being added in fall 2010.

The Fine Arts Department, in conjunction with the Neglia Ballet Artists, now offers a dance minor (canisius.edu/finearts/dance.asp). Ballet is the focus but studio classes are also available in modern dance. Training and performance take place at Neglia Ballet Studios

in Buffalo.

The Modern Languages Department launched separate language and culture minors in French, German and Spanish (canisius.edu/modlang/minors.asp). The programs develop students’ abilities to understand, speak,

read and write the respective languages, and instill in them an appreciation of the

cultural, history, literature and diversity of the peoples in the countries.

Federal Grant Furthers Institute for autism ResearchThe college’s science education programs received a sig-nificant boost in July, when Rep. Brian Higgins (D-NY) pre-sented Canisius with a $400,000 federal grant. The funds will be directed toward the college’s Institute for Autism Research (IAR).

“These federal funds will help provide equipment that supports pioneering programs at the college, including this one that seeks to learn from challenges that children with autism face and provide tools for change moving forward,” said Congressman Higgins. Higgins toured the IAR’s Connections program prior to his announcement. Connections is an intensive summer treatment program for children with high functioning autism spectrum disorder.

“Congressman Higgins has been a champion for Canisius and the college is grateful for his efforts to help secure this funding,” added Canisius President John J. Hurley. “This grant allows the IAR to significantly expand the applied learning experiences, research and academic programming opportunities currently available for under-graduate and graduate students, and helps further the IAR’s innovative research and treatment programs.”

Canisius created the Institute for Autism Research to conduct leading edge research on autism spectrum disorders (ASD). It provides research-ers and affiliated faculty with the facilities necessary to study and treat ASD in a collaborative manner.

Congressman Brian Higgins (D-27), center, discusses the work of the college’s Institute for Autism Research with co-directors Marcus L. Thomeer, PhD, (left) and Christopher J. Lopata, PsyD, (right).

blue&goldbriefs

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Board of trustees

chindemi named new Vp for Institutional advancement Craig T. Chindemi began work July 1 as the new vice president for institutional advancement at Canisius College. Appointed by President John J. Hurley, Chindemi is the college’s chief advancement officer. In this role, he oversees development and alumni relations, and is responsible for strengthening rela-tionships, so that Canisius may secure the necessary resources to ensure the financial well-being and growth of the institution.

“Craig has a history of demonstrated success in development and higher education development, in particular,” says Hurley. “I am confident that his vision and creativity will enable Craig to uniquely combine the needs and objectives of prospective donors with the mission and vision of Canisius College.”

“Canisius has a long and storied history,” adds Chindemi. “Countless people over generations built the college into the preeminent Catholic institution it is today. It is an honor to join Canisius College not only for its history of academic excellence but also for the exciting vision that is being set for its future.”

Chindemi comes to Canisius with more than 25 years of experience in fund raising and public relations for higher education, healthcare and national social service agencies. He served as vice president of Community Counselling Service (CCS), a comprehensive fund-raising consultant and management firm with offices throughout the United States, and in Toronto, London and Dublin. Chindemi was the lead consultant on several multimillion dollar fund-raising campaigns at various colleges and universities, including Fairfield University. With leadership from Fairfield, Chindemi developed a multi-year comprehensive plan that led to the university’s securement of $137.9 million.

Chindemi holds a BA from St. Thomas University in Miami, FL and an MBA from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), and a member of the Association of Fund Raising Professionals (AFP). An avid volunteer at his alma mater, Chindemi serves on the St. Thomas University President’s Board of Advisors, its Branding Committee and is a member of the Alumni Committee.

canisius climbs in national RankingsCanisius continues its ascent among the top tier of regional universities in the Northeast. The college secured the 20th spot - its highest ranking yet - in U.S. News and World Report’s 2011 rankings of America’s Best Colleges, in the regional universities – North category. Canisius moved up one position from 2010 to achieve its record ranking. U.S. News also listed Canisius among its “Great Schools, Great Prices” category for regional universities in the North.

Canisius College also earned a place on The Chronicle of Higher Education’s list of “Great Colleges to Work For,” for the third consecutive year. The college is among the top, medium-sized college workplaces. The survey recognized Canisius for its best practices and policies in job satisfaction, work-life balance, and facilities, workspaces and security.

The Canisius College Board of Trustees appointed four new members on July 1. The Board formulates and recommends policy to Canisius College President John J. Hurley. Members are appointed to three-year terms. The new Board of Trustees members are:

LaRRy aIELLO JR. ’71 Retired President & CEO Corning Cable Systems LLC

chRIStInE LIcata-cULhanE ’67, MS ’71, EDD Interim Senior Associate Provost, National Technical Institute for the Deaf Rochester Institute of Technology

REV. JOhn F. LIBEnS, S.J. Dean of Teachers & CurriculumSt. Ignatius High School

JOhn L. LanGER ’76 Co-Founder & Partner Jensen Marks Langer & Vance LLC

President Canisius College Alumni Association

Craig T. Chindemi

ach year, a small group of Canisius students tour Italy as part of a travel photography course offered by the Fine Arts Department. Their assignment: to capture the intricacies of Italian culture through the lens of a camera.

“The purpose is not for students to take great photographs of the Coliseum but to take great photographs of the culture that built the Coliseum,” explains Thomas A. Wolf ’86, adjunct professor of fine arts.

The Italy trip is the culmination of a semester’s worth of classes, which focus on photography composition, techniques and lighting. Coursework also includes introductions to the Italian language and customs.

Students travel to Rome, Venice, Florence and Sorrento but spend most of their time in Castellemare di Stabia (Stah

,-bee-ah). The ancient Roman city and farm town is nestled

southeast of Naples. It is a picturesque area untouched by tourists. The locals speak little English and their lifestyles are much more relaxed than that of Americans.

“ I want them to create fantastic art within the frame-work of a new culture and new customs,” says Wolf.

The travel photography course is a favorite among art history and digital media arts majors but it is purposefully open to students from all disciplines.

“The college’s fine arts program is first-rate and we encourage all students to explore it for their personal or professional developments,” adds Wolf.

They do. Students from athletics to biology and business to education enroll in the course. The diverse mix of students adds another artistic dimension to the course.

“It’s all about perception and each student brings a distinct and creative point of view to the table,” says Wolf.

See for yourself. The following pages include photographs of the culture and customs captured by this year’s travel photography students, along with some personal reflections on their works. More photographs can be viewed online at www.canisius.edu/magazine.


student profile in leadership

”This is a picture of the Basilica di San Marco in St. Mark’s Square, in Venice. While this is only a picture of the top part of the Basilica, the clouds in the sky make it seem as though the figures on top are reaching into the heavens.“

ChrisTinA ConsTAbile ’11 | Digital Media Arts / Communication Studies


“I love this shot because this building has a very art deco look. It is gritty and old but still has a very artistic and beautiful look to it - much like the impression Italy left on me, and I loved it.”

briAn bATTenfeld ’10 | Digital Media Arts

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John Glemb ’11Management & Marketing

dAnielle VAnGel ’10 Digital Media Arts

““The gentleman who operated the sandwich cart next to the Coliseum packs up at dusk and escapes

into the night, only to return the next day to tourists filled with a sense of wonderment.”

ChrisTiAn dinGeThAl ’11 | Communication Studies

“I love this shot because this building has a very art deco look. It is gritty and old but still has a very artistic and beautiful look to it - much like the impression Italy left on me, and I loved it.”

briAn bATTenfeld ’10 | Digital Media Arts

“I wanted to capture the chaos of the city of Sorrento on Easter Sunday. There were people everywhere - in cars, on mopeds, even in horse-drawn carriages.

It was such a contrast to the relaxed Italian lifestyle.”

CArA l. ThAyer ’11 | Digital Media Arts/Communication Studies

Jennifer Perez ’10Criminal Justice

miChele boshArT ‘10 Athletic Training

arbara E. pinello ’10 and William F. Golba ’10 continue a long tradition of success at Canisius College, as the latest student recipients of prestigious J. William Fulbright Scholarships. Named for the late U.S. senator, the scholarships are part of the

government’s premier scholarship program, which is designed to foster mutual understanding among nations through educational and cultural exchanges. Fulbright scholarships support a full academic year of study, research or teaching assistantship.

Pinello will study in Germany, where the international relations, European studies and German alumna will examine methods of how to teach a foreign language. She will also gain practical experiences as an English teaching assistant (ETA).

While in Germany, Pinello also plans to volunteer at an academic mentoring program for immigrants. She became aware of how language barriers created social constraints on immigrants, during her study abroad experi-ences.

Pinello plans to enter the TESOL (Teach English to Students of Other Languages) master’s degree program with the Peace Corps, when she returns from Germany. She will spend one year in the United States and then teach English as a second language in a developing country.

William Golba, an international relations alumnus, will also serve as an English teaching assistant, while he conducts research in Vienna, Austria. He will examine whether Austria is still a neutral power in the post-Cold War era. Golba’s research methods include literature review, interviews and correspondence with policy makers.

While in Austria, Golba plans to participate in events through Model United Nation’s (UN) organizations, including the Academics Forum for Foreign Affairs and the United Nations Youth and Student Association of Austria, a subsidiary of Model UN.

Golba plans to enter the U.S. Foreign Services through the U.S. Department of State, upon his return from Austria.

His and Pinello’s awards bring the total number of Fulbright Scholarships received by Canisius students to 29, since 1987.

FULBRIGHT TRADITION CONTINUES AT CANISIUS

Photo left: Fulbright recipient Barbara E. Pinello ’10

Photo right: Fulbright recipient William F. Golba ’10

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rench Professor Eileen M. angelini, phD, received a prestigious Canada-U.S. Fulbright Award. The awards offer unique opportunities for professors to explore a wide-range of scholarly issues that are relevant to

Canada, the United States, and the relationship between the two countries.

Angelini will serve as Visiting Chair in Globalization and Cultural Studies at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. The nine-month position supports her research on the cultures and histories of French-Canadian communities, especially those outside the province of Québec, and their ties to the United States. Angelini’s research project is entitled “Following the French in North America.”

“I am absolutely thrilled to have this opportunity, which will have a direct impact on my teaching at Canisius,” says Angelini. “Most Americans are aware of some of the history and traditions of Québec, but few are aware of the connec-tions between the multiple French-speaking regions of Canada and those in the United States.”

Angelini’s Fulbright Award is the most recent in a long history of recognitions. The Canadian government awarded her a

Faculty Enrichment Program Grant (2009-2010) and the Québec government presented Angelini with a Québec Studies Program Grant (2008).

Eileen M. Angelini, PhD


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Mariacher is a first generation digital native. She grew up with the internet, cellular phones and MP3 players. Twitter, youTube and facebook are legitimate facets of her social life. Mariacher’s ease with these digital tools keeps her in a continual search for new ways to incorporate the latest applications into her digital life.

Now, as she and her digital native counterparts come of age, they no longer want to be passive users of the technology. They want to be creators of its content. And nowhere are these skills needed more than in the rapidly-changing field of journalism.

“The pendulum is swinging,” says Margaret Sullivan, vice president and editor of The Buffalo News. “News is becoming more and more digitally-oriented and if the industry is to endure, it must stay nimble and be ready to reinvent the model all the time.”

The success of the Communication Studies Department – and its grad-uates – lies in this very philosophy.

Throughout its 40-year history, the department evolved and expanded as changes occurred in the ways people communicate. The department evolves again this fall when it introduces a new major in journalism.

Shaped with input from print and broadcast news editors, the under-graduate program educates students about the core skills journalists need to succeed in today’s multimedia environment.

“The burgeoning world of technology virtually shattered the lines that once divided broadcast, print and online communications,” explains Barbara J. Irwin, phD, professor and chair of the Communication Studies Department.

Now, consumers can – and do – access news, information and entertain-ment at speeds of near-instant gratification. They customize what they want to see, when they want to see it and have it delivered right to their digital doorsteps, via E-mail or RSS feeds. When it arrives, consumers expect content that includes all the amenities, such as audio, video, animation and graphics.

“Today’s journalists need to be able to communicate with people wherever they are, whether it is in print or broadcast, on the web or on mobile devices,” adds irwin.

The vast majority of undergraduate programs offer degrees in broadcast journalism or in print journalism. A few offer concentrations in online journalism. “Ours is different,” adds irwin. “The journalism program at Canisius teaches students how to do it all because that is what will be expected of them in the field.”

The trend is known as ‘backpack journalism’ (although it is quickly becoming a reality for all news outlets). As equipment gets smaller and budgets tighter, newsrooms send ‘one-man bands’ out to report stories across an array of media platforms.

Mariacher is the quintessential backpack journalist. She learned the fundamentals as an undergraduate at Canisius College – well before the Communication Studies Department introduced the journalism major.

Sure, Mariacher might pen a few inches of text for the print edition of The Buffalo News. But for most assignments this cub reporter shoots video of her story, uploads it to her laptop computer, edits it down to an average two-minute piece and uploads it to The News’ website, along with a corresponding article for the web. “Then it’s off to her next assignment,” she says.

Multimedia may be the newest form of journalism but it is not the first time technology changed the face of the communication business. Radio, television and cable each altered how and when people receive information.

Surely, there will always be a need for news but media organizations that don’t capitalize on this latest digital revolution risk losing a captive audience. As a result, the market for multimedia journalists is brighter than ever.

“I consider myself an old-school journalist: check your facts, name your sources and write well-balanced stories,” says Mariacher. “The only difference is that veteran reporters use pencils and notebooks to record their stories. I use a laptop computer and digital technology.”

“Newsrooms make very few hires these days and those hires that they do make are very

strategic,” says Sullivan. “Most of my recent hires are all like lauren: young digital natives with multimedia

abilities. They are increasingly attractive to employers.”

Similarly, these young digital natives are increasingly attracted to journalism careers.

Nationally, the field is now among the top five intended college majors in the arts and sciences (journalism actually ranks slightly higher than biology), according to a 2009 College Board data report. Moreover, the Chronicle for Higher Education notes that enrollment in undergraduate journalism programs is up 35 percent, nationwide, over the past 10 years.

The undergraduate programs offered by the Communication Studies Department at Canisius account for more than 10 percent of the stu-dent population. “We estimate that number will grow to 15 percent with the introduction of the journalism major,” says irwin, who cites College Board information on students’ interests in journalism, and statistics from similar regional colleges.

Part of the draw “is a new generation of courses re-tooled for new media,” explains Bill grueskin, a former managing editor of The Wall Street Journal Online who is now dean of academic affairs at Columbia’s graduate School of Journalism. “Ambitious and creative young people see this as an opportunity to be part of the effort to recast and remake journalism.”

The curriculum for the Canisius journalism major introduces a number of new courses that focus on multimedia production and its journalistic applications. Students learn about the software and hardware used for web design, and audio and video production. They develop digital graphic creation techniques, and incorporate these skills into the construction of interactive web pages. Students also become proficient in the use of social media and blogs to track down sources for stories and reach non-traditional audiences.

The journalism major is further supported by a quarter-million-dollar high-definition (HD) overhaul. from cameras to the control room, the college’s television studio and media center now operate as complete HD production and post-production facilities. in addition, the depart-ment is now among the first, locally, to utilize virtual set technology. The NewTek TriCaster switcher enables communication studies and journalism students to achieve the same sophisticated television studio look as broadcast networks, which operate the same technology.

With lights, a simple camera set-up, and a green screen, on-camera tal-ent can be seamlessly integrated into virtually any environment: from behind a news or sports desk, to inside a classroom or in front of a city skyline.

The TriCaster serves a dual purpose. Students in the digital media arts program use the technology to learn digital compositing techniques. Much like director James Cameron did for his 3-D epic film Avatar, Canisius students use motion-capture sensors that feed their movements on the green screen back to a computer, where they then build animated three-dimensional virtual worlds.

“i am learning on equipment, cameras and software that local media outlets don’t yet use,” says Garrett Weinholtz ’12, a communication

studies and digital media arts major. “if i can catch on here, then i know i’ll be able to catch on fast in the real world.”

But no matter how frantically mass communication and its multimedia delivery systems change, the need for trained journalists, who provide accurate, objective and quality information to the public, remains unchanged. Required coursework includes interviewing, story con-struction and writing techniques. Media law courses address conflicts of interest, privacy and confidentiality issues. Media ethics classes teach students that informed public opinions are essential for social justice and that the best way to discern truth is through a multitude of voices.


“Young college graduates enhance their chances of securing work if they can say to potential employers, ‘ I know web design, video production

or digital graphics.’ ”- Benjamin J. Dunkle, Associate Professor of Communication Studies

“The curriculum emphasizes that potential journalists develop a strong sense of social responsibility to the public and a deep conviction that what they do has a significant impact on society,” says irwin.

The journalism major is the latest advancement for a department that recognized the signs of the digital revolution more than a decade ago – and aptly responded.

The change began when the Communication Studies Department moved from its cramped quarters on the fourth floor of Old Main to new spacious facilities in lyons Hall in 1999. The college equipped the department’s newly-renovated home with the latest state-of-the-art technology, on which students learn: Macintosh computer labs, web and digital imaging labs; design production labs; digital video edit stations; a digital audio lab; and a television studio outfitted with standard definition studio

cameras, a video switcher, a 16-channel audio mixing board and a teleprompter. The facility upgrade led to the creation of a

campus television club (CCTV) and a co-curricular arrangement with the student-operated radio

station (WiRE). it also attracted the attention of high school students interested in communication studies.

“Everything just clicked when i visited campus and toured the department’s facili-

ties,” recalls Weinholtz. “Dr. irwin showed me the classrooms, the labs and the television

studio, and spoke about all the extra-cur-ricular activities. it really won me over.”

Many of the facility upgrades were precursors to the college’s digital media arts major. The

program was among the first of its kind in Western New york and one of only a few in the

country, when Canisius introduced it in fall 2000. At its inception, the DMA major prepared students

for work in the then-emergent fields of electronic publishing, website design, and

digital video and graphics.

“The digital media arts major far exceeded enrollment expectations

from the very beginning because it caught the growing digital wave in communication, and married stu-

dents’ interests in art and design

with technology,” says Barry Berlin, phD. The former chair of the Communication Studies Department is the architect of the DMA major and director of the new journalism program.

Ten years later, the digital media arts program continues to surpass enrollment expectations. Moreover, it attracts an increasingly large percentage of residential students, who come from Syracuse, Rochester, Detroit and Ontario.

Ultimately, the DMA program keeps pace with the fast-moving devel-opments in communication systems and today prepares students for careers in the growing fields of digital video production and editing, digital illustration, motion graphics, digital communication technology, electronic game design and interactive media. Although the skills students learn via DMA coursework “are relevant to virtually any career path they may pursue,” says Benjamin J. Dunkle, an associate professor of communication studies who recently concluded his tenure as director of the DMA program. “young college graduates enhance their chances of securing work if they can say to potential employers, ‘i know web design, video production or digital graphics.’”

for these reasons, the Communication Studies Department will launch a freshman-year seminar course in digital scholarship this fall. Open to students from all disciplines, the course introduces them to the ways in which they can combine their creativity with digital technology to produce scholarly works.

“The idea is to lay the groundwork for a new generation of students who are interested in different forms of expression other than the traditional term paper,” says irwin.

She explains that digital media arts at Canisius is more than the sum of its software applications. The program is structured around the diverse digital media backgrounds of its faculty.

Dunkle led web design and development at a local advertising agency, when the World Wide Web first emerged as a digital tool. Associate Professor Jamie M. O’neil (page 18) is a digital video and multimedia

“The burgeoning world of technology virtually shattered the lines that once divided

broadcast, print and online communications.”- Barbara J. Irwin, PhD, professor and chair of the Communication Studies department


design specialist with 10-plus years experience producing multimedia projects for fortune 500

companies. Assistant Professor przemyslaw (pJ) Moskal is an expert in three-dimensional computer- generated content creation

for electronic games, an industry which now generates more capital than the motion picture industry.

“Because Ben, Jamie and PJ all maintain close ties with their respective industries, they more easily identify and respond to new trends in digital media,” says irwin. She gives the example of a new course, entitled Designing for Mobile Devices, which the department will introduce in spring 2011.

But perhaps the real differentiator of the DMA program at Canisius is that it is housed in the Communication Studies Department, rather than in the fine Arts or Computer Science departments, as other schools opt.

“The applications of digital media arts are directly tied to the ways in which people communicate and interact,” explains Dunkle. “By having it under the same umbrella as the communication studies and journalism programs, it enables unlimited opportunities for collaboration between faculty and students from all three programs.”

There is, perhaps, no better example of collaboration between these degree-granting programs than the award-winning Canisius College Video institute (Vi) (Canisius Magazine, winter 2007). Established in 2005 with support from The John R. Oishei foundation, the Vi is comprised of communication studies, DMA and now journalism students who combine the lessons they learn in effective interviewing and storytelling with those in digital production and post-production to produce promotional videos for not-for-profit agencies, which otherwise do not have the resources to tell their stories. Canisius recently granted permanent funding to the Vi so that the success of the program may continue. The Vi is similar to the college’s five other institutes, in that it is an educational, research and public outreach initiative.

“My experiences in the Video institute were my ‘in’ at The Buffalo News,” says Mariacher, who produced three Vi documentaries as an undergraduate.

She and her Video institute classmate, Jesse D. Koch ’09, a DMA alumnus, garnered the attention of Margaret Sullivan at The News, just as the newspaper began to explore the idea of producing digital video stories for its website.

“They were interns at The News but they had more knowledge and experience with producing and editing video for the web than anyone on our staff at the time,” recalls Sullivan, who enlisted the help of the Canisius students.

Together, Mariacher and Koch compiled a list of digital equipment The News needed: cameras, microphones, editing software and computers. They then trained The News’ photographers to shoot and edit digital video, create digital graphics and post it to the website.

“it was all so unprecedented and really a testament to my Canisius edu-cation and experience,” recalls Mariacher.

So while many traditional communication jobs are likely to become extinct, the digital revolution will replace them with new opportunities. And there should be no shortage of suitors for young digital natives, with bright ideas about how to communicate via a multitude of multimedia platforms.

in the meantime, the Communication Studies Department at Canisius not only continues to keep pace with the digital revolution. it leads the way.

“Throughout our history, students have changed, the means by which people communicate have changed but the mission of our department remains the same,” says irwin. “That mission is to recognize an ever-changing world, to educate students to welcome that change, and to provide them with the foundation on which they can build meaningful roles in the contemporary world.”

“Most of my recent hires are young digital natives with multimedia abilities. They are

increasingly attractive to employers.”- Margaret Sullivan, vice president and editor of The Buffalo News


sTATe of The ArTSToRy: kRISTIN E. ETu ’91

phoToS: ToM WolF ’86

faculty profile in leadership


On September 25 a new exhibit will hang among the watercolor paintings and hand-crafted works in Buffalo’s Burchfield Penney Art Center. “SkippiSox/Skipping Slides” is the latest interactive, digital artwork collection of Jamie M. O’Neil, associate professor of communication studies at Canisius College.

O’Neil is a contemporary artist. He uses digital technologies to express his creativity. Video is O’Neil’s canvas. The camera is his paintbrush. O’Neil’s palette includes digital images and effects.

“I have the soul of an artist although it’s always been a challenge for me to integrate my artistic interests into my life,” says O’Neil.

O’Neil studied art at Boston University, not far from his hometown of Hingham, MA. His mother (a homemaker) and father (a ship-builder) thought their son might be better served by an education that focused on more practical pursuits. However, they never discouraged him and in 1992, O’Neil earned a bachelor of fine arts degree, with a major in theater.

“My objective was not necessarily to have a theater career but to become a well-rounded creative person who takes the role of art in society very seriously,” says O’Neil.

His plans changed with the advent of the World Wide Web one year later. Businesses needed people to design for this new medium. O’Neil needed to earn a living.

“I did what most fine arts graduates do,” he laughs. “I went into advertising.”

Weymouth Design in Boston hired O’Neil as its first non-traditional (or non-print) graphic designer.

“Jamie picked up quickly on the emerging technology,” recalls Michael Weymouth, president of the company. “What’s more, he made it sing and dance. Everything he touched was ultra-creative.”

O’Neil became a pioneer in multimedia design. He produced promotional materials for Fortune 500 companies such as Corning, Titleist and Mead, and traveled throughout the U.S., Europe and Asia. Within five years, non-print advertising made up nearly 50 percent of Weymouth’s business. “That’s how fast things were changing in the industry,” recalls O’Neil.

Despite the security of his job, the artist within O’Neil felt constrained by the work. “I just could not thrive creatively in a traditional corporate environment,” he explains, which is why he jumped at the chance to relocate to Buffalo in 2000. The move to his wife’s hometown landed him on fertile creative ground.

“People assume that Boston is a more diverse cultural scene than Buffalo but I don’t believe that is the case,” says O’Neil. “Once we settled in Buffalo, I said ‘Okay, I am ready to be an artist.’”

Today, O’Neil combines his creativity and multimedia interests to create art for the digital age. Cannon Design and the National Museum of the U.S. Army both commissioned O’Neil for forth-coming media projects. Danceworks at Toronto’s Harbourfront Center contracted with O’Neil to design the video scenic effects for Autobiography: Chapters One Through Five, a multimedia col-laboration with choreographer Gerry Trentham. Currently, the team is producing a dance quartet that connects dancers in four different cities through the use of real-time video networking technology.

O’Neil the artist aptly blends his roles as O'Neil the associate professor of communication studies and director of the Canisius College Digital Media Arts (DMA) program. He joined the faculty in 2004, the same year he obtained his master’s degree in fine arts from the State University of New York at Buffalo. At Canisius, O’Neil instructs students in digital media arts, interactive multimedia, video editing and Flash animation. More important, he nurtures the imagination of his students.

“Nothing is more satisfying for me as a teacher than to recognize and bring out artistic expression in students,” says O’Neil. “Canisius students are insanely creative. They just need the right guidance and they need to know that it is alright to be an artist. It helps that I can tell them, ‘I was just like you when I was your age and there is a way to live in this world.’”

Some students struggle to draw or paint in a traditional sense, explains O’Neil. But digital media art is multi-sensory, which lends itself to students whose creativity lies in music, video, digital illustration or interactivity through programming.

“Jamie sees qualities in students that they don’t see in themselves and he channels their energies,” says Barbara J. Irwin, PhD, chair of the Communication Studies Department. “He doesn’t hand out cookie-cutter assignments. Instead, Jamie figures out how to make students’ interests fit with what he teaches.”

Richard A. Lunghino ’13, a DMA major, is O’Neil’s Canisius Earning Excellence Program (CEEP) research assistant. The two participate in The Electronica Project, which was established by H. David Sheets, PhD, professor of physics, as an innovative way to teach electronics in the context of electronic music. Their initiative examines musical instrument digital interface (MIDI). Specifically, it explores how to synchronize musical instruments, such as live keyboard or drum performances, with computer-synthesized music.

“Jamie knew I had a music background and encouraged me to help with this research,” says Lunghino. “I never imagined I would get involved with such a technical project at Canisius but I’m so glad that he pushed me outside my comfort zone.”

WITh A VIDEo CAMERA AND CoMpuTER TEChNology, JAmie m. o’neil REDEFINES CREATIVE ExpRESSIoN

Photo, left: Associate Professor of Communication Studies Jamie M. O’Neil previews his latest interactive, digital artwork, in which he appears as ‘Kurt Weibers.’


O’Neil admits he is at his best with students when they begin their creative journeys in their freshman and sophomore years. Things become more difficult with upperclassmen because he says creative types typically don’t respond well to directives.

“Juniors and seniors need to create work that will get them work,” explains O’Neil. “If I do not push them hard to produce, then I am not serving them well.”

Erin E. Bagwell ’09 produced several award-winning documentaries for the college’s Video Institute, as well as a 34-minute documentary on her study abroad experiences in Spain, with O’Neil’s guidance. Bagwell says O'Neil challenged her critically, technically and from a design perspective. This gave her the skills and confidence necessary to establish her own video and graphic design business.

“Because Jamie is an artist himself, it is very easy to explain ideas to him,” says Bagwell, who now has her own company - Lady Bird Productions. “Every one of his assignments is basically a seed that blossoms. I would not have been able to accomplish any of this without the stepping stones from Jamie’s classes.”

This fall, students across all disciplines can share in experiences similar to Bagwell’s, when O’Neil becomes co-director of the Video Institute (VI), alongside Irwin. The program recently received permanent funding from Canisius, following a competitive grants process across campus. The funds enable the success of the program to continue but also support new multimedia projects for students and professors who want to express their written scholarship in digital ways. For example, students in the college’s Creative Writing Program can collaborate with VI students to bring their words to life through digital animation. Business students who study management techniques can work with VI students to pro-duce motivational videos and corresponding websites.

O’Neil expresses his own scholarship in digital ways. His academic research focuses on the effects of digital culture on society, specifically how the idea of remixing has “radically altered our concept of what it means to create something original,” says O’Neil.

A remix uses pieces of pre-existing media, such as audio or video, to create something new. O’Neil explains, “In 1985, the band Run DMC did a rap version of the Aerosmith song ‘Walk this Way.’ That marked a defining moment for pop music remixing.”

The remix originated with audio but is now a popu-lar tool for video. A quick search for “remix” or “mashups” on YouTube yields countless examples. O’Neil’s students actually inspired him to examine and experiment with remixing. “They all did it already,” he says. His most widely-recognized video remix is “The Medium is the Mix” (www.mcluhanremix.com). In it, ‘Kurt Weibers’ (the pseudonym O’Neil uses when he performs in his own art pieces) appears to conduct an on-camera interview with the late revolutionary communication theorist Marshall McLuhan. O’Neil actually remixed audio and video of McLuhan from a 1960s debate he participated in with Norman Mailor.

“Jamie thinks outside the box and is passionate about what he does,” says Irwin. “Canisius students will be able to do even bigger and better things with him as co-director of the Video Institute.”

In some ways, O’Neil’s life at Canisius and in Buffalo seems to be scripted from his childhood. O’Neil resides on a quaint tree-lined street, much like the one on which he grew up in Hingham. His wife, Megan, is a full-time mother to their children Will, 10; Jonah, six; and Maeve, three. In the summer months, when the conditions are just right, O’Neil makes a beeline to the waters of Lake Erie to windsurf, much like he did when he lived near Cape Cod.

The major difference is that today O’Neil is at ease with himself as an artist. His multimedia expressions enrich Western New York’s art galleries. At the same time, he models what it means to be a contemporary artist, to artistically-inclined young minds. As a result, O’Neil, his students and Buffalo’s greater cultural community thrive.

“The sad part about being an artist is that it can create a natural alienation with society,” says O’Neil. “But the people in Buffalo and here at Canisius understand that artistic expression is an emotional, visceral part of a human being. They understand that an artist is not an individual but a comrade who participates in the creativity of an entire community.”

“ noThinG is more sATisfyinG for me ThAn To reCoGnize And brinG ouT ArTisTiC exPression in sTudenTs.”

beyond/ in WesTern neW york

ArT shoW Burchfield Penney Art Center | September 25 - December 4


facultynotes

John S. Dahlberg, PhD, and Leonid A. Khinkis,

PhD, are the inaugural participants in the college’s Senior Administrative Fellows Program. Created to develop administrative talent from within, the fellows program is designed so that faculty members can contribute their unique skills to the college in administrative capacities, while they continue to teach.

Dahlberg contributes his expertise to the institution’s advertising and marketing efforts. The professor of communication studies has nearly two decades of experience as a senior writer/producer, creative director and copy editor at various advertising agencies. His portfolio includes work in print advertising and collaterals, electronic media and film, and clients such as Kodak, Corning and Fisher Price.

Khinkis focuses his fellowship efforts on market and financial aid analysis, new program development and increased grant funding. The mathematics professor is a frequent collaborator with scientists from Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) and the University at Buffalo’s School of Pharmacy. Prior to Canisius, Khinkis was a research mathematician at the Program Systems Institute at the Academy Institute, Academy of Sciences USSR.

Khinkis and Dahlberg will serve as Senior Administrative Fellows for the 2010-2011 academic year.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded H. David Sheets, PhD, a $58,581 grant to study biodiversity. A professor of physics, Sheets and his students will examine how ocean circulation patterns and species’ climate affinities influence different life forms within the ecosystem. They will use fossil records and paleontological GIS (geographic information system) maps to carry out their research.

The project is part of a four-year multidisciplinary and collaborative effort, which includes professors and

students from the State University of New York at Buffalo; the University of Dayton, OH; St. Francis Xavier University, Nova Scotia; and the Institute of Geology and Paleontology, Nanjing, China.

James N. Oigara, EdD, assistant professor of education, is the recipient of a $21,150 SMART PREP Grant from SMART Technologies. The grant required matching funds, which the School of Education and the Office of Academic Affairs made available.

SMART PREP grants support pre-service teaching programs with the purchase of SMART technology products. Oigara will use the grant to purchase SMART Boards and to create a SMART Lab within the School of Education.

“We will now be able to provide our pre-service teachers with access and practical training in the newest interactive edu-

cation technologies so that we can ensure our graduates have the skills and knowledge needed to be effective 21st century educators,” says Oigara.

A portion of the grant will also be used to conduct practical research on the impact and effectiveness of technology as an instructional tool in K-12 classrooms.

The Women’s National Book Association (Los Angeles Chapter) named The Girl Who Threw Butterflies a 2010 Judy Lopez Memorial Awards Honor Book. Authored by Mick Cochrane, PhD, professor of English and Lowery Writer-in-Residence, the novel tells the story of Molly Williams, a young girl whose father dies in a car accident. To make herself known at school for something other than her father’s death, Molly joins the boys’ baseball team.

The Girl Who Threw Butterflies is Cochrane’s third novel and his first book for young readers. USA Today recently named it a ‘recommended read’ for young people.

The Judy Lopez Memorial Awards are presented annu-ally, and recognize works of literary excellence for readers between the ages of nine and 12.

Dahlberg, Khinkis named Senior administrative Fellows

Sheets Examines history of Ecosystems with nSF Grant

Oigara is SMaRt Recipient

Literary Excellence for cochrane

James N. Oigara, EdD

H. David Sheets, PhD

Mick Cochrane, PhD

John S. Dahlberg, PhD

Leonid A. Khinkis, PhD

The Canisius annual fund concluded another successful campaign and made a little history in the process. The collective support of more than 8,800 donors helped secure $2.554 million in gifts and pledges.

“The Jesuit Challenge was a key factor in the fund-raising success,” says Annual Fund Director Kirsten Reppert MS ’07, MBA ’10. She explains that the two-year initiative generated more than $1 million in new and increased gifts to the annual fund. Membership to the college’s Leadership Society also climbed to its highest levels, as a result of the Jesuit Challenge. More than 670 Canisius alumni, parents and friends made commit-ments of $1,000 or more for a total of $1.58 million in gifts. “The positive response to the Jesuit Challenge speaks to the college’s rich Catholic, Jesuit tradition, and to the Jesuits, themselves, who continue to inspire us after 140 years.”

In 2008, the Jesuit community at Canisius pledged $1 million to A Legacy of Leadership: The Campaign for Canisius College, with the directive that it be used to support annual fund giving. To extend the impact of the gift, the Jesuits invited Canisius alumni and

friends to make donations to the annual fund that were above and beyond their usual contributions.

Gifts to the annual fund are critical to the college’s financial strength. Ninety-two percent of annual fund dollars supports financial aid and scholarship resources. The remaining eight percent supports faculty retention and resources, academic programs, and co-curricular activities.

The 2010-2011 annual fund campaign is already underway. To make a pledge, call 1-800-201-4952 or go online at www.canisius.edu/gift.

Jesuit challenge is Key to annual Fund Success


Peter J. Murrett Jr. ’43 presented a check in the amount of $258,000 to Canisius College on June 27, on behalf of Marjorie M. Demerly’s estate. The gift will provide additional funding for the Dr. John A. ’38 and Marjorie M. Demerly Scholarship Fund, which the Demerly’s estab-lished in 1987 and which now totals more than $550,000.

The scholarship fund provides grants, annually, to upper-classmen who maintain 2.75 GPAs and demonstrate financial need.

The college recognized the lifelong generosity of the late John and Marjorie in 2001, with the dedication of Demerly Hall, the former Streng Oldsmobile property on Main Street.

Photo: Peter J. Murrett Jr. ’43 and Canisius College President Rev. Vincent M. Cooke HON ’10, S.J.

Paul A. Battaglia ’69, chair of the 2009-2010 annual fund cabinet, and Canisius College President Rev. Vincent M. Cooke HON ’10, S.J.


Outside the president’s suite in the Bagen Administration Building is a wall of plaques, which represent the nearly 350 named endowed scholar-ship programs at Canisius College. Combined, these scholarships total more than $55 million in investments in student learning at the college. This summer, Canisius added one more named endowment to the wall.

The Dr. J. David Valaik Scholarship was established by former students to pay tribute to the guidance, direction and discipline provided by the late history professor and dean of continuing studies.

“These alumni understand the important role this exemplary professor played in shaping their lives and enthusiastically embraced the idea to endow a scholarship in his name,” says J. Patrick Greenwald, director of principal gifts. He notes that The Dr. J. David Valaik Scholarship was endowed with commitments that total more than $40,000.

The Valaik Scholarship is one of several endowed scholarships

established in honor of a faculty member by students, colleagues and friends, or established by current and former faculty and staff in their own names. Each provides vital funding for scholarship aid to help defray the cost of a Canisius education for deserving students.

“Professors not only educate students, they help them discover their true callings, inspire them to go out and do great things, and offer friendship and wise counsel,” adds Greenwald. “As time passes, alumni realize that the care, concern and influence these educators provided during their undergraduate years and they begin to seek opportunities to express their thanks in special ways.”

To learn more about how to honor a Canisius professor through an endowed scholarship or to make a contribution to The Dr. J. David Valaik Scholarship, contact Marion Mittler, director of donor relations and special events, at 716-888-8217 or via E-mail at [email protected].

A record 720 Canisius alumni and friends attended the 44th annual Board of Regents Scholarship Ball, which paid tribute to Canisius President Rev. Vincent M. Cooke HON ’10, S.J.

Father Cooke retired this summer. In recogni-tion of his leadership at Canisius and in the greater Western New York community, the Board of Regents presented Father Cooke with its 2010 Distinguished Citizen Achievement Award. He also received proclamations from President Barack Obama and Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, as well as a memory book from the Canisius community.

Sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of WNY for a second consecutive year, the Regents Scholarship Ball raised an impressive $138,000, which surpasses last year’s fund-raising event by 19 percent. Proceeds provide financial support to students who otherwise would not be able to take advantage of a Canisius education.

To view pictures from the Regents Scholarship Ball, visit www.canisius.edu/regentsball.

Keep the Legacy alive

Regents Scholarship Ball Surpasses Expectations

campaign Update As of August 3, Canisius College has secured $73.6 million in commitments toward its $90 million goal for A Legacy of Leadership: The Campaign for Canisius College. To learn more about A Legacy of Leadership, visit www.canisius.edu/campaign.

Canisius College President Vincent M. Cooke HON ’10, S.J., (center) is photographed with (l-r) Acea Mosey ’92, co-chair of the Regents Scholarship Ball; John J. Hurley ’78, current Canisius College President; and Patricia and Vincent Mancuso ’68, MBA ’77, co-chairs of the Regents Scholarship Ball.


V E R y D ay, t h E h O n O R a B L E L E n O R a B . Foote-Beavers ’92, JD, must confront the harsh realities that result from broken families. As support magistrate

for Erie County Family Court, she hears cases that involve child support violations and paternity issues. But not every case ends sadly.

“Some people didn’t have parents to show them the right way,” says Foote-Beavers. “I try to give them the guidance that maybe they never received.”

Many parents whom Foote-Beavers encounters did not finish high school. She refers them to Buffalo’s Educational Opportunity Center to pursue GEDs or vocational training. Foote-Beavers enrolls the children of the parents in various academic, social and support programs, specific to their needs, at their respective schools.

She credits her Canisius education for instilling in her a commit-ment to community.

“The focus was less about how much money you can make in a career and more about how you can use your talents to serve the community,” says Foote-Beavers, who incorporates this philosophy into all her work.

After she obtained her juris doctorate degree from the University at Buffalo, Foote-Beavers became coordinator of the city’s Save Our Streets (SOS) program. SOS unites federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to tackle drug activity in urban neighborhoods.

As housing court prosecutor, Foote-Beavers met regularly with block club leaders to discuss ways to help landlords and residents maintain their properties. She also served as general counsel for the Urban Renewal Agency, the community development arm of the city.

Foote-Beavers’ contributions to the community do not end with her day job.

The past president of the Minority Bar Association of Western New York (WNY) is now chair of the Continuing Legal Education Committee, and co-chair of the WNY Chapter Diversity Committee for the Women’s Bar Association of New York.

She also makes alma mater a priority. Foote-Beavers is a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, and serves on the Pre-Law Advisory Council. It is her way to say thank you to those whom she says gave so much to her.

“I doubted myself when I was a student but Professors Jesse nash, peter Galie and Robert Klump saw potential in me. They taught me to believe in myself and encouraged me to further my education.”

Life comes full circle for Foote-Beavers in her role as support magistrate, as she now works to encourage young people to further themselves through education.

“The best part is when a parent or teenager comes back and says ‘thank you’,” says Foote-Beavers.

A L U M N I S P O T L I G H T

hon. Lenora B. Foote-Beavers ’92: the power of One

E

canisiusconnections


If you can write, you can think. That was the prevailing message of a panel discussion led by alumni of the college’s English program and hosted for current English students.

“The perception is that English majors can only become English teachers,” said Rachel L. Greenberg, PhD, an assistant professor of English. “The reality is that an English degree prepares students for hundreds of career opportunities because it provides them with verbal, written and analytical skills.”

In addition to education, English graduates commonly put their degrees to work in such fields as publishing, creative writing, journalism and public relations. Gretchen Galley ’87, creative department manager at a local advertising firm, told Canisius students that her English background “taught her how to communicate ideas clearly and make persuasive arguments.”

But every organization - be it business, government, legal, industry or academic - “needs individuals who can com-

municate effectively,” added Greenberg. She explained that an English degree demands that students develop clear and concise writing skills. It also requires students to engage in logical discussions on a broad range of topics introduced in literature.

“My English degree taught me how to negotiate language, how to use words and how to organize information,” said David L. Roach ’76, a partner at the law firm of Blair and Roach LLP.

The cognitive skills required to analyze passages of literature or understand the figurative meanings of poems can also be applied unilaterally, added Maryalice Nowak ’85, a federal official for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

“My English background gave me the ability to simplify complex information, and to communicate that informa-tion both orally and verbally.” She concluded, “Writing is learning and the ability to learn is what truly makes potential employees marketable.”

to be or not to be … an English major

A group of Canisius alumni recently traveled with Michael noonan, phD, professor of animal behavior, on an educational eco-tour of Northern California. Hardly a trip for rest and relaxation, Noonan’s seven-day expedition focused on the behavioral ecology of Pacific Ocean marine mammals including Sea Otters, Harbor Seals and Sea Lions, and the behavior patterns of migrating Gray Whales.

Noonan also provided alumni with breathtaking opportunities to view more than 100 bird species, such as the rare California Condor, the Yellow-Billed Magpie and the Western Scrub-Jay.

“It is refreshing to see the same spark and interest in our alumni as I see in our students on these wildlife excursions,” says Noonan. “It’s proof that the desire to learn never leaves us.”

Photo: Canisius alumni pose for a quick picture before heading out with Mike Noonan on a kayak adventure to observe Sea Otters, Harbor Seals and various bird species in the biologically-rich Elkhorn Slough reserve.

More than 450 alumni relived a Canisius tradition on June 5, when the college hosted Alumni Quad Party. Organized as part of Alumni Weekend 2010, the Quad Party included live music, food and refreshments much like the time-honored event (now called SpringFest), which is held each year for students, on the last day of classes.

Alumni Weekend 2010 celebrated reunion years for the classes of 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005. The two-day event kicked off on Friday, June 4 with individual class dinners and happy hours.

Pictured left page: Top: Quad Party 1980

Bottom (l-r): Dave Cleland ’81 and Tom Greenwald ’82

Pictured right page:Top, left (l-r): Clare (Manuel) Dean ’85, Russell Battaglia ’88, Marie (Ricchiazzi) Battaglia ’85, Susan Marchione ’85, MS ’99, Robert Ketteman ’85, Lynn (Terian) Maher ’85, Michael Sullivan ’85, MD, Katie Butt ’85, Sibby Fasanello ’85 (kneeling)

Top, right (l-r): Jennifer (Knowles) Gill ’00, DVM and Nicholas Gill

Center, left (l-r): Mary (Rappl) Bellanti ’90, Kristen Kulinowski ’90, PhD, Julie Renda ’90, Kimberly Hocking ’90

Center, right (l-r): Andrew Leberer ’07, Duffy Dunnigan, Chris Billoni

Bottom, right (l-r): Mike Vavonese ’80, Laurie Pilawa Salerno ’80, Denise Tuoti ’80, Joel Holka ’80, Carol Ravina-Huegen ’80

CHECK OUT MORE PHOTOS FROM ALUMNI QUAD PARTY 2010!

visit www.canisius.edu/alumniweekend


The Canisius classes of 1950, 1955 and 1960 marked milestone reunion years with a weekend of events in May. Campus tours followed by a Friday night stag party in the Palisano Pavilion kicked off the commemoration. On Saturday, members of the Canisius classes of 1950 and 1960 processed with students from the Class of 2010 at undergraduate commencement ceremonies. Later that evening, alumni gathered for individual class dinners at the Montante Cultural Center and The Buffalo Club. The weekend culminated with the traditional Golden Plus Mass and Brunch, which is celebrated annually by alumni who graduated more than 50 years ago. Photos clockwise from top, left: Michael Anastasia Sr. ’55, Joseph J. Castiglia ’55,

Anthony Colucci Jr. ’55; Jim Falkner ’60; David Paa ’60, MD, John McGhee ’60; Julie (Bitterman) Urban ’94 and Margaret Songin ’50 ; Jerry Culhane ’50, Ed McMahon ’50, MS ’67, Joe D’Amato ’50, Canisius President John Hurley


class notes1950s’55 bs, hon ’94 Joseph J. Castiglia, former consultant for JBC Enterprises, was named to the newly-created Western New york Community health planning Initiative Steering Committee.

’56 bA William l. holcomb, president of William l. holcomb Associates Inc., received the Citizen of the year Award from the labor & Employment Relations Association of Western New york.

1960s’60 bs Peter x. bellanti, tax manager at Amato Fox & Company pC, received the first annual Distinguished Service Award from the Buffalo Chapter of the New york State Society of CpAs, in recognition of his many years of outstanding service and dedication.

’62 bA stanley J. nowak, a retired educator for the Buffalo Board of Education, was installed as the president of the Aero Club of Buffalo.

’63 ms Amy m. (Joseph) habib, chair of the petri Baking products Inc. Board of Directors, was named co-chair of the 2010 National Federation for Just Communities.

’64 bA robert s. swiatek, a self-employed author, had his cookbook, The “Read My Lips” Cookbook: A Culinary Journey of Memorable Meals, re-published in a second edition.

’65 bA michael J. bellehumeur, proprietor of the gite lepassant B&B, in Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, recently celebrated his 20th anniversary as owner of the establishment.

’66 bA, hon ’05 robert m. Greene, partner at phillips lytle llp, received the Father William lewers Award from Notre Dame university for his work in civil and human rights, social justice and international humanitarian services.

’66 bA francis m. lazarus, Phd, is the new provost and vice president of academic affairs at Assumption College in Worcester, MA. he is a president emeritus of the university of Dallas.

’67 bs, ms ’75, mbA ’78 frank l. eberl, co-owner of Eberl Iron Work Inc., received the gambit loyalty Award from Canisius high School at its annual gambit Dinner and Auction.

’68 richard C. Penfold, retired chief executive officer of South park Enterprises, received the philanthropy Award from the National Federation for Just Communities of Western New york at the organization’s annual Community leader Awards luncheon.

’69 bs Anthony J. latona, partner at Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel llp, was elected to the leadership Buffalo Board of Directors.

’69 bA kenneth P. service, vice president of institutional relations at la Roche College, was named to the pittsburgh Mercy health System Board of Directors.

1970s’70 bs Anthony W. bylewski, retired chief operating officer and chief technology officer of the Western New york Children’s psychiatric Center, now serves as president of the polish union of America Branch 86. he is also a member of the Clarence Senior Citizens Inc. Board of Directors.

’70 bs George V. Cotroneo, chief of the hydraulics and hydrology branch for the Buffalo District of the u.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was named Engineering Educator of the year by the Erie/Niagara Chapter of the New york State Society of professional Engineers.

’70 bs Thomas A. Palmer, a partner in the law firm of Jaeckle Fleischmann, was named to the Woodward White list of Best lawyers in America 2010.

’71 bA kevin J. hamilton was promoted to vice president at Credit Suisse group. he previously served as supervisory analyst/editor.

’72 bA ronald h. luczak, director of development, public relations and charitable contributions for The Travel Team Inc., was appointed to the Arts in Education Institute Board of Directors.

’73 bA dennis C. Galluzzo, pharmacist and owner of Family Medical pharmacy Inc., received the national Immunization Champion Award, in the individual practitioner category, from the American pharmacists Association.

’74 bs shawn P. dailey is a new investment consultant at hafner Financial group. he previously served as an investment adviser for more than 16 years with Wachovia/Wells Fargo.

’74 bA dennis C. Walczyk, chief executive officer of Catholic Charities, was named to a two-year term as chair of the New york State Council of Catholic Charities Board of Directors.

’75 bs kevin m. marmion, president of William S. hein & Company Inc., was honored by the company for 40 years of dedicated service.

’75 bA James J. Pendergast, administrator for human Resources Security and Transportation at the university of New Mexico hospital, ended a three-year term as president of the Albuquerque Boys & girls Club. he is now president of the Four hills golf Club.

’75 bA stephen J. Quigley, of counsel at ostrolenk Faber llp, was elected to the Village of Tuckahoe, Ny Board of Trustees.

’76 mbA John burgess is the new chief executive officer of Simulated Surgical Systems Inc. he previously served as owner and president of Reichert Inc.

’77 bA Thomas J. foels, md, chief medical officer at Independent health, was named to the Buffalo Business First 2010 health Care 50 Roll Call.

’77 bs kathlenn T. (scully) Grimm, md, a physician with Quaker Medical Associates, was named to the newly-created Western New york Community health planning Initiative Steering Committee.

’77 mbA Joseph P. michael, chief executive officer of The Dental Shop, received the gambit loyalty Award from Canisius high School at its annual gambit Dinner and Auction.

’77 bs mary f. (Jenkins) roberts, executive director of the Martin house Restoration Corp., received the Binational Star Award at the 2010 Binational Economics & Tourism Summit.

’78 bA John C. Plante, regional sales manager at lynx Technologies Inc., was elected to the Business helping Business Board of Directors.

’78 bs mark A. smith is the new director of marketing and business development at Summit Educational Resources. he previously served as chief operating officer at liazon Corporation.

’78 bA, mbA ’85 nancy (Wutz) Ware is founder and president of Edukids Inc., which was named to Exchange magazine’s annual top 50 for-profit child-care organizations in the country.

’79 bs david J. nasca, president and chief executive officer of Evans Bank NA, was named to the Buffalo Business First list “people to Watch in 2010.”

’79 bs dirk d. rabenold, financial planner at Next Financial group, was elected to the Financial planning Association of Western New york Board of Directors.

1980s’80 bs Carolyn (beiter) frank, vice president of quality and health informatics at Excellus health plan Inc., was named to the newly-created Western New york Community health planning Initiative Steering Committee.

’82 bA, msed ’86 John A. sopko, a social studies teacher at Springville-griffith Institute high School, is the school’s new head football varsity coach.

’82 bA Peter f. kowalski, md, a physician at uB Family Medicine, was named to the Buffalo Business First 2010 health Care 50 Roll Call.

’83 mbA nancy m. blaschak, executive director of the greater Buffalo Chapter of the American Red Cross, was named to the newly-created Western New york Community health planning Initiative Steering Committee.

’83 bA Timothy m. Clark, executive director of the Buffalo Niagara Film Commission, was named to the Buffalo Business First list “people to Watch in 2010.”

’83 bs, mbA ’94 James f. dentinger, president at Mcguire Development Company llC, was elected secretary of the Erie County Medical Center lifeline Foundation Board of Directors.

’83 bs James e. knight, real estate broker and appraiser for MJ peterson Inc., was elected vice president of the Western New york Chapter of the New york State Commercial Association of Realtors.

’83 bA Todd J. mcdermott is the new morning news anchor for WpxI Channel 11 in pittsburgh, pA. he previously served as lead anchor at WuSA in Washington, D.C.

’83 bs Thomas J. Topper, financial planner at prudential Insurance, was elected treasurer of the Williamsville Business Association.

’83 bs, mbA ’87 daniel J. zimmer was promoted to vice president of corporate finance and development for Delaware North Companies. Zimmer has been with Delaware North since 1995 and most recently served as vice president of business operations for the Boston Bruins.

’84 mbA marie A. bartolotta, retired dean of institutional planning, assessment and grants at Erie Community College, received the college’s louis J. Billittier honorary Alumni Award.

’84 bA linda m. diPasquale, a self-employed attorney, was elected a commissioner of the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission Board of Directors.

’84 bA daniel P. Garvey, manager of food and beverage at the Roycroft Inn, was elected treasurer of the New york State Restaurant Association Board of Directors.

’84 bs Janet m. (biniszkiewicz) stanek is the new senior vice president of sales and marketing at Counsel Financial Services llC. She previously served as president and chief strategist at Stand Advertising llC.

’84 bA louis n. Taravella is the new associate real estate broker at The olear Realty group/MJ peterson Inc. he previously served as real estate broker and owner of ReMax All-star Team Realty.

’85 bs Thomas C. naples, vice president of Integrity Distribution Inc., was named to the Western New york Division of the New york Chapter of the March of Dimes Board of Directors.

To see what alumni events are happening in your area, visit the Alumni Calendar of Events at www.canisius.edu/alumni.class notes

’86 bA Vincent e. doyle iii, partner and attorney at Connors & Vilardo llp, was named president-elect of the New york State Bar Association.

’86 bs douglas C. Gaffney was promoted to vice president of finance and adminis-tration at Biel’s Information Technology Systems. he previously served as controller.

’87 bA frank d. stephen iii, Phd, is a new assistant professor in the Department of Math and Natural Sciences at D’ youville College. he also serves as a licensed clinical laboratory scientist at Buffalo general hospital.

’88 bA Paul m. Anain, md, a vascular and endovascular surgeon for the Catholic health Systems, was honored by D’youville College for his contributions to healthcare in Western New york at its 15th annual health Awards Dinner.

’88 bs Paul r. shosho is the new director at uSB Wealth Management. he previously served as a lead business analyst for E*Trade Financial.

1990s’90 bA Jennifer A. (desantis) Carlo is the new marketing specialist in the sales analytical division at Reichert Inc. She previously served as owner of American Tomboy.

’90 bA david m. hersey is the new varsity football coach at St. Mary’s high School in lancaster. he previously served as a football trainer at the Thurman Thomas Football Academy.

’90 mbA Christopher C. kempton, director of group benefits at Walsh Duffield Company Inc., was named treasurer of the Town of Clarence Industrial Development Agency.

’90 bA david r. rice, dds, dentist and chief executive officer at East Amherst Family Dental, was named to the Buffalo Business First 2010 health Care 50 Roll Call.

’91 bs Joseph J. martin assumed command of the u.S. Army’s golden knights, its premier parachute Jump Battalion. he previously served as a military fellow for Sen. harry Reid.

’91 bA laura l. Ponticello, founder of laura’s list: Books for Women, was featured in a question-and-answer news profile in Syracuse’s The Post-Standard.

’92 mbA kenneth e. baldes, chief financial officer and chief operating officer of the Christian & Missionary Alliance, was recognized by Cambridge Who’s Who for demonstrating dedication, leadership and excellence in finance, leadership development and team management.

’92 bs robert d. Chyka Jr. was promoted to chief information officer at Medaille College. he previously served as senior network analyst.

’92 bs Jeffrey P. Culhane is the new vice president of perishable marketing at Tops Markets. he previously served as director of merchandise planning and replenishment for perishables at Meijer Supermarkets in grand Rapids, MI.

’92 mbA ralph m. Jeswald, partner at Dopkins & Company llp, was named to the Buffalo Business First 2010 health Care 50 Roll Call.

’92 bs david T. karb, perishable opera-tions manager at Tops Markets Inc., was elected to the lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

’92 mPA Anthony m. san Giacomo was promoted to chief federal probation officer for the Western District of New york of the united States Department of probation. he previously served as deputy chief.

’94 bA matthew J. igoe was named general manager of the Chicago division of Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway.

’94 bs henry W. J. mcWilliams, director of finance at uB Associates Inc., was named to the St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute Board of Trustees.

’95 bs Cheryl A. (sciandra) Prout, partner at gaines kriner Elliott llp, was named to the Western New york Division of the New york Chapter of the March of Dimes Board of Directors.

’95 bs, mbA ’99 Angela l. (sabatino) ricci is the new client release specialist at Synacor. She previously served as Microsoft account manager at Client logic Corporation.

’95 mbA robert e. rich iii, president of RoAR logistics Inc., was named Niagara university’s Family Business Entrepreneur of the year. his company also received an Innovate Buffalo Niagara Award from the Buffalo Niagara partnership and kpMg llp.

’95 bs david A. Taylor was promoted to manager of the Advanced Diagnostic product line at Reichert Inc. he previously served as a marketing manager.

’95 bA david i. richards, a student at Christ the king Seminary, was ordained a transitional deacon by Bishop Edward u. kmiec.

’95 bA Trent m. Voelkl, vice president of operations for Buffalo pharmacies Inc., was named to the Buffalo Business First 2010 health Care 50 Roll Call.

’95 bs leslie J. Wangelin, manager of treasury services for Catholic health Systems, was named to the Aspire of Western New york Board of Directors.

’96 mbA ronald d. Adamczak, risk manager at lawley Service Insurance, earned his Certified Risk Manager designation from Certified Risk Managers International.

’96 bA, msed ’04, mbA ’06 Anthony s. marranca, client manager of premier banking and investments at Bank of America, was named to the Western New york Division of the New york Chapter of the March of Dimes Board of Directors.

’96 bA Jeffrey r. Pirrone is the new team supervisor for Mobile Safety-Net Team, a basic human needs initiative supported by The John R. oishei Foundation. he previously served as community relations coordinator at Community Services for the Developmentally Disabled.

’97 bA Vincent d. Clark, director of community relations at the university at Buffalo, was appointed vice-chair of the Read to Succeed Buffalo Board of Directors.

’98 bA, mbAPA ’08 Joseph m. Cannon is a new staff accountant at Freed Maxick & Battaglia pC. he previously served as a tax associate with pricewaterhouseCoopers.

’98 bA david J. Goehrig is the new lead developer at Synacor. he previously owned his own business.

’99 bA Julie e. kruger is a new associate attorney at kolken & kolken, Attorneys at law. She previously served as a member of Congressman Brian higgins’ staff.

’99 mbA michael Trachimowicz, branch manager and vice president at First Niagara Bank, was elected to the grand Island Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

2000s’01 ms lori e. miller, president and owner of Developing professionals, was elected to the lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

’01 bs katherine A. (Guidie) zoratti is the new marketing manager at Ivoclar Vivadent. She previously served as a marketing associate at Curbell Electronics Inc.

’02 ms Grace huff was promoted to principle at Chiampou Travis Besaw & kershner. She joined the firm in 2007 and most recently served as senior tax manager.

’02 bs Christopher e. kader is the new supervisor at Freed Maxick & Battaglia pC. he previously served as a senior associate at pricewaterhouseCoopers llp.

’02 ms Jacqueline smukler matheny was promoted to vice president of the School of Adult and graduate Education at Medaille College. She has been with

the college for 27 years and most recently served as executive director of enrollment management.

’04 bA eileen C. herbert, director of public relations at Canisius College, was named Northeast District Assembly delegate for the Buffalo Niagara Chapter of the public Relations Society of America.

’04 bA John m. Tuppen, assistant district attorney for Chemung County in Elmira, Ny, recently passed the New york State Bar Exam.

’05 mbAPA nicholas J. dukat was promoted to audit manager at lumsden & McCormick llp. he joined the firm in 2005 and most recently served as a senior accountant.

’05 mbAPA daria shanchuk was promoted to audit manager at lumsden & McCormick llp. She joined the firm in 2005 and most recently served as a senior accountant.

’06 bA racquel V. Ananiadis is the new marketing specialist/claims coordinator of Stahlka Agency, a member of the EMS group. She previously served as an assis-tant account manager for the Commercial lines Department at M&T Bank.

’06 bA stacey l. budzinski is a new associate at Damon & Morey llp. She received her law degree in 2009 from george Washington university law School.

’06 bs elizabeth A. Gruber, md, is a new internal medicine resident at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, MA, an affiliate of harvard Medical School. She received her medical degree from the university at Buffalo School of Medicine.

’07 bA, mbAPA ’08 nicole m. bzibziak is a new staff accountant at McAuley Seton home Care, part of the Catholic health System in Buffalo, Ny. She previously served at Dopkins & Company llp.

’07 bA, mbAPA ’09 melissa r. Clingersmith, auditor at Dopkins & Company llp, successfully passed all parts of the Certified public Accounting exam.

’07 bA Jessica k. Gasiecki is a new marketing assistant for Watts Architecture & Engineering. She previously served as cathedral administrator at St. paul’s Episcopal Church.


new job? newly married? new arrival to the family?Simply E-mail your news and notes to [email protected]. The editors will share your accomplishments in a future issue of Canisius College Magazine. Just remember to indicate Alumni Note, Alumni Wedding or Baby griff in the subject field of your E-mail.

Stephen R. Kin ’33, MS ’36 february 11, 2010

John a. Long ’34 April 26, 2010

Robert K. hasler ’36, Ma ’41, EdD february 1, 2010

chester a. Josef ’39 february 5, 2010

nicholas J. toth ’41 March 13, 2010

charles a. Oliver Jr. ’42 April 25, 2010

herman Brunotte ’47 March 5, 2010

William J. Karnes ’48 August 13, 2009

Victor J. cook ’49 April 4, 2010

Rev. nicholas p. Rogers ’49 April 5, 2010

hon. thomas p. Flaherty ’50 October 9, 2009

Leo a. Flynn ’50 March 22, 2010

Joseph a. Marion ’50 March 31, 2010

John Murphy ’50 March 11, 2010

Robert c. Schindler ’50 October 9, 2009

Lewis a. Dahl Jr. ’51 January 31, 2010

thomas J. taggart ’51 March 10, 2010

Rev. William W. Meissner ’52, S.J. April 16, 2010

patrick W. harris ’53 March 22, 2010

James J. Mccarthy ’53 April 29, 2010

Eugene F. provenzo ’53, MS ’54 August 19, 2009

Joyce J. (Butmore) Braun ’54 March 20, 2010

Gerard Brennan ’55 March 4, 2010

paul E. Gillooly MS ’56 April, 11 2010

Robert p. McShane ’60 february 1, 2010

David M. cima ’62 January 28, 2010

Laurence hebeler ’64 April 13, 2010

Richard J. McLoughlin MS ’68 March 15, 2010

Joan M. Gibson MS ’70, Ma ’78, phD May 31, 2010

Eugene Sanford Jr. MS ’70 March 15, 2010

Rev. thomas F. Sheehan ’70 March 3, 2010

Russell M. Giordano ’71 february 9, 2010

antoinette M. Klimeczko ’71 february 1, 2010

Myra E. Lewis MS ’72 April 20, 2010

Ronald a. clark ’75 March 2, 2010

Michaeline M. Reining MS ’75 february 21, 2010

Robert E. pernatt ’76 february 26, 2010

catherine L. (Schuetze) Berkemeier ’79 March 4, 2010

Susan L. peters ’81 April 6, 2010

Mary E. (Luzer) amador ’98 and Anthony E. Amador, twin daughters, Grace Daisy and Maya patricia, born December 8, 2009

Elizabeth a. (Schmitt) arcara ’02 and David a. arcara ’92, a son, Matthew Joseph, born July 30, 2009

Melissa a. (Russo) Eberz ’01, MS ’08 and John Eberz, DDS, a daughter, Grace ann, born September 14, 2009

Joshua p. heim ’01, MBa ’04 and Sarah Heim, a son, Ryan James, born October 20, 2009

Mary Kate (Zebracki) Loftus MBa ’03 and Kevin E. Loftus ’98, a daughter, Molly catherine, born September 30, 2009

Elizabeth a. (Foley) Mackay ’99 and Gerald F. Mackay ’96, a daughter, penelope Foley, born November 1, 2009

Robert J. Martin ’01 and Stephanie M. Martin, a son, Robert Michael, born November 9, 2009

Kathleen F. (Duffy) Martoche ’02, MS ’04 and christopher c. Martoche ’99, MSED ’05, a son, Salvatore Daniel, born December 27, 2009

thomas B. McGee ’92 and Janice Mcgee, twin daughters, Margaret Rose and nora Elizabeth, born february 27, 2010

Karen L. (thiebolt) Mikols ’99, MBa ’04 and adam F. Mikols ’97, MBa ’04, a son, carson adam, born December 3, 2009

adam D. Quick MSED ’00 and laura Quick, a son, payton alexander, born September 16, 2009

Julie M. (Skladanowski) Rosinski ’99 and Andrew C. Rosinski, a daughter, Lila Grace, born february 13, 2010

nadine R. (carver) Schwanz ’97, MS ’01 and Daniel Schwanz, a daughter, Evelyn Rose, born March 20, 2010

Daniel M. Shea ’95, phD, and Nicole Shea, a daughter, aífe Lily, born September 17, 2009

amanda S. (Metz) talty ’02 and Thomas B. Talty, a son, thomas tucker, born December 8, 2009

hon. Jeffrey F. Voelkl ’89 and Margrit DiCamillo, twin daughters, Jane and Julia, born in December 2009

think your baby ought to be in pictures? Send us a photo of your newborn with his/her name and date of birth. Each issue, we will draw from the entries. if your child’s picture is chosen, he/she will be featured as the next “Baby griff.” Send photos to: Canisius College Magazine Baby Pictures; 2001 Main Street, lyons Hall 209; Buffalo, Ny 14208 or E-mail a high resolution photo to [email protected]. aLL Baby Griff photos submitted can be viewed on the college’s alumni site at www.canisius.edu/alumni/wedding_births.asp. Photos will be returned if a self-addressed, stamped envelope is provided.

I N M E M o R I A M

Weddings

Erica D. Driggs ’03 and Adam gregoire on July 11, 2009

Douglas J. Evanovich ’92 and Amanda M. Novack on October 3, 2009

Jon D. Ferris Jr. ’04 and Ashley M. larsen on December 23, 2009

Bridget a. Quinlan MSED ’06 and andrew L. Spitler ’05, MS ’07

on August 22, 2009

*Robert J. Simpson ’06 and Krista Corigliano on february 13, 2010

Dana M. tintner ’06, MBa ’08 and Justin S. Bennett ’07 on May 24, 2009

Kathleen p. yearley ’07 and John a. Wickett ’07 on January 2, 2010

canisiusconnections

*Indicates married at Christ the King Chapel.


T H I S I S S U E ’ S F E A T U R E D B A B Y G R I F F

Evan Jamesborn to Mark D. Walter ’04 and Genevieve (connolly) Walter

October 27, 2009


All -College Honors

emories of the All-College Honors Program flooded back when William Schoenl ’63, phD and

Daniel palaszewski ’63 reunited at their 45-year class reunion. It was the first time they saw each other since graduation day.

“We laughed a lot about the eccentricities of some of our honors professors,” says Schoenl. “Dr. George Lavere (philosophy) ambled in as if on a pleasant stroll. Dr. Leslie Warren (English) literally sprang into the classroom,” laughs Schoenl. “But we also reflected on what a great, great education we received as honors students,” adds Palaszewski, a retired business owner.

Palaszewski and Schoenl are among the very first graduates of the All-College Honors Program at Canisius. That inaugural class consisted of 19 students: six in the arts, five in the social sciences, three in business administration, three in chemistry, and two (Palaszewski and Schoenl) in mathematics.

Graduates from this first honors class will join honors alumni from subsequent years to commemorate 50 years of the all-college honors program, on September 18, 2010.

“For a half-century now, the All-College Honors Program has challenged highly-qualified and highly-motivated students to develop their intellectual curiosities and become independent critical thinkers,” says Bruce J. Dierenfield, phD, professor of history and director of the

BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN STUDENTS FOR 50 YEARSStory by Audrey R. Browka

alumni profile in leadership

All -College Honors

All-College Honors Program. “Now, we invite members of this close-knit scholarly community to relive their experiences as we celebrate this milestone.”

The origins of the All-College Honors Program at Canisius are somewhat vague, according to Dierenfield. The initial idea came about in 1958 when the late dean of faculty Rev. William Scott, S.J., suggested Canisius consider an academic seminar to bring out the best in the college’s brightest students. Two years later, Father Scott introduced the first interdisciplinary sophomore honors seminar. Students who successfully com-pleted the course were formally admitted to the Honors Program, and enjoyed such privileges as unlimited cuts from classes except honors seminars, exemption from final exams in certain subjects and exclusive use of an honors house on Eastwood Place to study, meet and lounge.

Rev. Vincent Blehl, S.J., of the English Depart-ment, and George Lavere, phD, served as the first co-chairs of the All-College Honors Program. English Professor Leslie Warren, phD, replaced Father Blehl when he left Canisius in 1960. Successive administrators included Rev. anthony B. Brzoska, S.J., former associate dean of the College of Arts & Sciences; James Lauffenburger ’60, phD, former chair of the Physics Department; and Keith R. Burich, phD, professor of history and former dean of the School of Education & Human Services.

But it is Robert J. Butler, phD, professor of English, who “rescued a near-defunct Honors Program

and reorganized it to be the premier program it is today,” says Dierenfield.

Throughout Butler’s 21-year tenure as director (1985-2006), he grew enrollment in the Honors Program from approximately 20 students a year to a combined enrollment of about 250 students. The program’s growth never jeopardized its academic quality.

Butler raised admissions standards to the program. Invitees come from the top 10 percent of applicants to Canisius College and carry high school averages of at least 94.

He restructured the Honors Program to enable students to take their honors courses in con-junction with their intended majors rather than in addition to them. “Most of our honors classes were held in the evenings because we attended our regular classes during the day,” recalls Palaszewski.

Butler also introduced cultural enrichment opportunities. Students receive a broader under-standing of topics they study in the classroom via theater excursions, concert outings and academic trips to such places as Boston, New York City, Chicago and Cleveland.

“The All-College Honors Program embodies what is best about Canisius, in that it provides students with challenging educational experiences that nurture the whole person,” says Butler. “It is often described as a college-within-a-college but the Honors Program enhances the intellectual life of the entire campus.”

BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN STUDENTS FOR 50 YEARSStory by Audrey R. Browka

A lot changed about All-College Honors in 50 years. Still, the hallmarks of the program remain the same.

“The intellectual rigor of the coursework, the interdisciplinary learning, and the camaraderie among students and the faculty whom mentored them – these are the noteworthy qualities of the program that continue to influence students,” says peter J. Galie, phD, professor of political science and a 35-year educator in the Honors Program. “They provide students with a wonderful balance between the academic and social aspects of college life.”

Academics in the Honors Program are accelerated and students delve deep into highly interdisci-plinary subjects. Coursework integrates history, political science, literature and art into one larger framework so that students consider connections between disciplines.

“Exploring how all those subjects tied together was fascinating,” says Lawrence J. Vilardo ’77, a partner in the law firm of Connors & Vilardo LLP. “It still helps my appreciation and under-standing, every time I walk into an art museum or hear a symphony.”

The quality of the Honors Program continues to be dependent on the extent to which students choose to be engaged. The prime goal is to move students from a structured learning environment to an independent, student-driven environment.

“We knew the program was special when we came into it,” recalls Molly a. Mccarthy ’89, phD, a visiting scholar in the History Department at the University of California Berkeley. “We always felt obligated to do our homework, come prepared to class and to make it the best experience for everyone involved.”

Some of the most insightful experiences occur in students’ small seminar courses. Professors pose provocative questions on such subjects as religion and science, biotechnology and society, or the individual and the community. Honors students are all but required to think and discuss freely.

“I remember Dr. Marianne Djuth’s philosophy 215 course on social justice,” says Stacey L. Budzinski ’06, an attorney at Damon & Morey LLP and a member of the All-College Honors 50th Reunion Committee. “The class sat on ideological lines and we would have full hours of debates. Occasionally, you could convince someone to switch sides.”

Such dialogues do more than stimulate the aca-demic environment of the honors classrooms. They are exercises in effective expression, inde-pendent reasoning and intellectual honesty.

“Dr. Dierenfield’s class on the Civil Rights Move-ment awakened me to the idea of race relations and its implications in a city like Buffalo,” recalls McCarthy. “I began to think, politically and so-cially, about how I could make a change and be mindful of my responsibility as a citizen.”

“Those seminars gave me the confidence that I could compete at a more advanced level and against students at Ivy League schools,” adds Schoenl. The professor of history at Michigan State University went on to earn his PhD from Columbia University.

The academic rigor of the All-College Honors Program culminates senior year in a compre-hensive independent research project and thesis. Students tailor their works to topics of particular interest to them and their studies. Very often, these impressive pieces of scholarship pave the way for master’s, doctoral or professional pursuits.

“It was my Canisius honors thesis on the Progres-sive Era that opened the door for me at Brandeis University,” says McCarthy, who spent 10 years

sk Matthew E. Raiff ’91, phD, what he appreciates most about his experiences in the All-College Honors Program and he

doesn’t hesitate: “peter cashel-cordo, Donald I. Bosshardt, phD, Mark p. Zaporowski, phD, paul M. Dowling, phD, peter J. Galie, phD and Robert J. Butler, phD.” These are just a few of the Canisius honors professors whom Raiff says set him on a trajectory toward the success he experiences today.

And to think, Raiff almost never attended college. Distraught by the untimely death of his older sister, Raiff put off applying to colleges. But his father, Edward ’51, encouraged him to consider Canisius and when he did, Raiff’s future began to take shape.

“My professors encouraged me to stop by their offices and talk,” recalls Raiff. “Not just about school but life. They saw my potential and encouraged me to reach it.”

The friendships Raiff developed in the All-College Honors Program - with his peers and his professors - helped him heal from the loss of his sister and focus on his future. Economics came naturally to him and faculty in the Economics Department encouraged him to pursue graduate studies. Raiff went on to earn a master’s degree and PhD in economics from Duke University.

Today, Raiff is a founding partner of Bates White LLC. With offices in Washington, D.C. and San Diego, the consulting firm provides economic, finance and business strategies to law firms, Fortune 500 compa-nies and government agencies. Global Competition Review, an international journal, recently named Bates White one of the world’s leading competition economics firms.

“Canisius sets All-College Honors students up to achieve excellence because it gives them superb and supportive faculty, and creative course design,” says Raiff. “Honors graduates can help further the program’s success by giving back. It’s a two-way street.”

In appreciation of his honors experiences and in recognition of the program’s 50th anniversary, Raiff made a significant monetary commitment to the All-College Honors Program as a challenge to inspire fellow honors alumni to support the program. This additional funding will help expand the All-College Honors Travel and Learn Program; improve com-munication with honors students, alumni, faculty and prospective students; and fund Canisius College membership and participation in the National Collegiate Honors Program.

DOnOR SpOtLIGhtMatthew E. Raiff ’91 Helps Honors Students

Achieve Excellence


C A n I S I U S C O L L E G E M A G A Z I n E • S U M M E R 2 0 1 0 | 3 5

as a journalist at The Buffalo News and Newsday before she went back to school for her PhD in history.

“I competed against graduates from Harvard, Duke and Princeton and came out ahead because my honors thesis was so comprehensive,” adds Budzinski. Her thesis, on the democratization in sub-Saharan Africa, landed Budzinski a job at OPIC (Overseas Private Investment Corporation). The independent government agency assists U.S. businesses with economic development in new and emerging markets. “Canisius didn’t even have a program in this area but the level of care and involvement from faculty in the Honors Program enables students to explore their different or obscure interests,” she says.

In fact, it is the faculty who distinguish the All-College Honors experience for many students. Professors are not only accomplished scholars but talented educators.

“Dr. Lavere could sit at a desk, never look at a note and speak non-stop about a subject for 50 minutes, and intrigue the class the entire time,” recalls Palaszewski.

“Canisius is a gift that keeps on giving,” adds McCarthy, who sought the advice of History Professor Nancy J. Rosenbloom, PhD, several times after graduation. “I just can’t imagine being able to develop relationships like this with pro-fessors at other schools. It takes time - face time – and you get that in the Honors Program.”

Academics may be the heart of the All-College Honors Program but it is this camaraderie that students develop with their professors, as well as with their fellow students, that truly invigorates their honors experiences.

Students begin to form bonds with one another early in their freshman years. “You struggle at first but then you realize that everyone is struggling and there is solidarity in that,” laughs Budzinski.

These relationships are enhanced for present-day students who learn and live together. George Martin Hall and the second and third floors of Dugan Hall serve as their intellectual homes.

“The special housing really gives us opportuni-ties to connect with people who have similar interests,” says Anne Marie Sweeney-Jones ’10, who earned her chemistry degree from Canisius. “The friendships will last a lifetime and that’s not something easily duplicated,” adds McCarthy.

nor is the All-College Honors Program at Canisius.

“It was like Canisius opened a new door with a bright light inside and you just wanted to go there, be there and enjoy all the new things possible to uncover and explore,” says Palaszewski. “That

is what I remember about the All-College Honors Program. That is what it meant to me.”

And that is exactly what Canisius College intends to continue for at least another 50 years.

ou don’t have to be a Canisius alum-nus to appreciate the value of the All-College Honors Program. When

Moira and David A. Dooley, PhD, decided to turn their admiration for Canisius into an active investment, these longtime friends of former Canisius President Rev. Vincent M. Cooke HON '10, S.J., directed their support toward the All-College Honors Program.

“Father Cooke inspired us with his enthusiasm and his results-oriented approach to make Canisius and Buffalo a better place,” recalls Moira Dooley. “We wanted to be a part of that and felt that an investment in All-College Honors was an ideal way to do this.”

Specifically, the Dooleys’ investment helped to significantly grow the number of diverse cultural, social and scholarly experiences available to honors students outside the classroom. Honors students now participate, annually, in a retreat at the Chautauqua Institution, a trip to a major American city, and theatrical performances at the Shakespeare

and Shaw Festivals in Ontario, Canada. Addi-tional activities include excursions to concerts and museums. Almost all the expenses are incurred by the program, not by students.

“It is rewarding to know that our support of the Honors Program helps educate students to people, places and communities that they might not otherwise know,” says Moira Dooley.

Such extra-curricular excursions also “strengthen the mission of the program, which is to build a community of scholars,” explains Bruce J. Dierenfield, PhD, director of the All-College Honors Program. The scholarly activities give students a more broad, real-life view of the subjects they study in the classroom. They also promote greater social interaction between students and faculty.

“Ultimately, the Dooleys’ support enhances one of the most valuable and distinctive features of the Honors Program,” adds Dierenfield. “As a result, the academic experience of honors students is bolstered and the entire Honors Program is strengthened.”

DONOR SPOTLIGHTThe Dooleys Expand Honors Education

TO SUPPORT THE ALL-COLLEGE HONORS PROGRAM visit canisius.edu/honors/giving.asp or contact Erin Hartnett,

development officer, at 716-888-8227 or at [email protected].

FOR MORE INFORMATION about the All-College Honors Program or

reunion visit canisius.edu/honors or contact Bruce J. Dierenfield, PhD, director, at

[email protected] or at 716-888-2690.

Canisius College Magazine

2001 Main Street | Buffalo NY 14208 | www.canisius.edu

Pictured is the All-College Honors Class of 1989. This was the first honors class to graduate under

renowned program director Robert J. Butler, PhD, professor of English. Appointed to the position in

1985, Butler reorganized and revived All-College Honors to the premier program it is today. It now operates

under the direction of Bruce J. Dierenfield, PhD, professor of history. The All-College Honors Program com-

memorates 50 years at Canisius this fall (see page 32).

Pictured (l-r): Susan Benzo, Susan Ponzi, Nancy Pula, Molly McCarthy, Patty Bubar, Cindy Ptak, Kelly Carrigg, Cathy Kurek, Kelly Wood,

Mark Lozo, Robert Hassett, Mark Bock, Tim Stevens, Cathy Harrington, and Wendy Gorski. Robert Butler is pictured behind the students.

canisius college magazine summer 2010

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