May/June 2011 - Eagle Online - Niagara University

N i A G A R A U N i v e R S i t yMay/June 2011 • voluMe 27 • issue 2Remembering Gerard M.Mahoney, C.M. pg9Photo Bookpg16Commencement2011 pg22A Woman for AllSeasons pg25

fromthepresidentThe Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M.,receives a painting from NiagaraFalls elementary school studentRobert Krebbs during an eventcelebrating the birthday of MartinLuther King Jr. Father Levesquewas honored with the Spiritof Dr. King Award at the eventin recognition of his work inand support of the NiagaraFalls community.Western New Yorkers often refer to Buffalo as the“City of Good Neighbors,” a nod to the unity ofits residents and their communal embrace of theregion that they call home. It has beena goal of mine since becoming presidentof Niagara University in 2000 to havean interpretation of this moniker appliedto NU, whereby our staff, faculty andstudents would be regarded as a universityof good neighbors.Cultivating the bond between theuniversity and the town that houses it,or the town-gown relationship as it’scommonly called, is mutually advantageous.Engaged universities are betterable to integrate the teaching, research,and service functions of the institution,while the community is able to useuniversity resources to drive local economicgrowth, promote workforce developmentand revive urban areas in decline.At a time when many municipalitiesand businesses are striving to be leanerfinancially, integrating the university andthe town as a unified entity makes soundeconomic sense. Moreover, developing astimulating intellectual atmosphere typicalof a college town helps recruit and retainstudents and staff, and it also improvesthe quality of life for both communitymembers and college personnel.Over the last decade, Niagara University has takengreat steps toward strengthening its relationshipswith the cities of Niagara Falls and Buffalo as wellas the many other villages and towns that makeup our community. Although it is true that theseaffiliations usually begin with elected officials anduniversity presidents, it is of paramount importancethat outreach extends beyond administrative offices.It gives me great pleasure to say that we have buyinfrom the top down, particularly when it comesto these community-oriented initiatives. We, as aninstitution, are committed to working closely withBuffalo-Niagara’s business and government leaders toenhance our region in strategic and sustainable ways.This community-minded approach can largely betraced back to our heritage as a Vincentian university.Service learning, in its most fundamental sense,corresponds directly with contributing to the greatergood of our community.One of Niagara University’s flagship serviceprograms, Learn and Serve Niagara, providesnecessary assistance to the poor, infirmed, agedand youth of the local community through avariety of endeavors. Last year alone, almost 900NU students were involved in Learn and ServeNiagara activities that provided tutoring andmentoring services to school-aged children at 130locations throughout the region.Niagara’s Office of Campus Ministry takes alead role in promoting several service projectsthroughout the year, while each of Niagara’s fourspecialized colleges has followed suit, institutinga number of programs that foster engagementamong faculty and students and the surroundingcommunities. The variety and breadth of Niagara’scommunity partnerships are so expansive that itwould be impossible to do them justice in thislimited space.Moving forward, we realize that a meaningfulpartnership must exist between the city of NiagaraFalls and Niagara University, one that shares acommon bond and a common vision. We willcontinue to seek out and implement programs thatare beneficial to the community and in accord withour mission as a Vincentian university. We can —and will — continue to be good neighbors.If you have any suggestions as to how NiagaraUniversity can continue to be a good neighbor tothe people in our Western New York region, pleasedrop me a line at jll@niagara.edu.God bless you all,Joseph L. Levesque, C.M.

May/June 2011 • volume 27 • issue 2www.niagara.eduA p u b l i c a t i o n for a l u m n i a n d f r i e n d sOn the coverNiagara Love Stories 12Many Niagara University students have met,fallen in love, and married, thanks to their time onMonteagle Ridge.916Remembering Gerard M.Mahoney, C.M. 9Dr. John Stranges, university professor, shares hismemories of a very influential Niagara president.Photo Book 16An around-the-clock look at Niagara Universitythrough the photography and words of some ofour students.Commencement 2011 22Glimpses of the pomp and circumstance ofCommencement 2011.A Woman for All Seasons 25A tribute to Teresa Carroll, a longtimeuniversity employee.In every issueFrom the PresidentAround the Ridge 2Niagara Notables 7Advancing NU 8In the Spotlight 26/30Alumni AssociationUpdate 28Alumni Notes 31A NU View 41View the Eagle online at http://eagleonline.niagara.edu/The Niagara University Eagle is published quarterly by the Office of Public Relations,Communications and Marketing for alumni and friends of the university.Please send correspondence to:Lisa M. McMahon, MA’09, EditorOffice of Public Relations, Communications and MarketingNiagara University, N.Y., 14109716-286-8747lmcmahon@niagara.eduContributors/PhotographySheila Bednarz Michael FreedmanDon BieleckiJim McCoyDesignSuzanne M. Karaszewski

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/nu-news/News BriefsThe Rev. Joseph L. Levesque,C.M., Niagara Universitypresident, was twice honoredfor his dedicated service to theWestern New York communityin January. He received the Spiritof Dr. King Award at NiagaraFalls High School on Jan. 13 andwas honored by Niagara FallsMemorial Medical Center duringThe Premier, the organization’sannual black-tie dinner and gala,two days later.Dr. Marilynn Fleckenstein,associate vice president foracademic affairs, received a2011 Community LeaderAward from the National Federationfor Just Communities ofWestern New York. She wasrecognized in the category ofCommunity Service/Volunteerismfor the work that she performsas the founding director ofLearn and Serve Niagara, auniversity program that wasinstituted in 1994 to teach facultyand students about the value ofservice to others, and to encouragethem to support and sustainpositive community relations.Niagara University played hostto the inaugural Western NewYork Investment Conferenceand Exhibition in January, anevent that brought students fromnumerous Western New Yorkuniversities to hear from someof Wall Street’s leading investmentadvisors regarding careeropportunities in investmentmanagement. A highlight ofthe exhibition was the CFAGlobal Investment ResearchChallenge, in which studentscompeted to earn a place atthe national challenge.College of Education Celebrates Ontario CommencementNiagara University’s Collegeof Education held its fourthBachelor of Professional StudiesProgram in Ontario commencementon Jan. 26, 2011.The Rev. Joseph L. Levesque,C.M., president of NiagaraUniversity, presided over theceremony, which took placeat the Toronto Centre for theArts. A total of 198 teachercandidates were awarded theirdegrees, with both primary/junior and intermediate/seniordivisions represented.Dennis J. Mills, a notedphilanthropist, former memberDennis J. Mills delivers the keynote address at NU’sof the Canadian ParliamentOntario Commencement.and current vice chairman ofMI Developments Inc., a global real estate firm, delivered the evening’s keynote address. Mills received theuniversity’s Caritas Medal in recognition of the extraordinary manner in which he exemplifies the charityof St. Vincent de Paul.Communication Studies Students Launch The Ridge ReportThe Ridge Report, a student-produced newscastbilled by its creators as “campus news by studentsand for students,” went live on the university’swebsite Jan. 5. A Relay for Life wrap-up, Jack’sMannequin concert review, and previews of NiagaraUniversity’s theatre and men’s basketball seasonshighlighted its first-ever installment.The newscast’s inventionis largely the result of asummer internship thatAnna Hoffmann, a juniorcommunication studiesmajor, participated in atWCBS-TV, the New YorkCity affiliate of CBS.“During my internship, Imet Peter Dunn, the presidentof WCBS and a 1981 alum of NU, who challengedme to create a university television station,” saidHoffmann. “When I brought that back to campuswith me, I found out that one of my fellow communicationstudies majors wanted to do the same thing.”That student, Sarah Kim, met with Hoffmann andMark Barner, Ph.D., chair of NU’s communicationstudies department, to determine the feasibility oflaunching an enterprise that possessed the potentialfor growth and sustainability. The trio, along withuniversity multimedia specialist Brian Rock, deviseda formal plan for a monthly broadcast treatmentthat would feature NU topics and special eventsthat are newsworthy but maintain longer shelf lives.Senior Geoff Redick and sophomores KerisaBonville and Vince Schiano anchored the first severalepisodes of The Ridge Report. Future anchors willbe selected through auditions.“It’s very important that ourstudents, particularly thosestudying communications,obtain the experience thatthey need in these typesof technologies before theyenter the professional world,”commented Dr. Barner. “Theuniversity’s television studiowas recently updated, providing our students witha great opportunity to use high-definition camerasand top-of-the-line equipment. We hope thatthis endeavor will be successful in providing themwith practical learning experiences outside ofthe classroom.”Watch The Ridge Report on NiagaraUniversity’s YouTube page: www.youtube.com/PurpleEagle1.2 eagle magazine

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/nu-news/Living EcologyLessons learned in a field ecology classroom came tolife for nine Niagara students, who spent their winterbreak kayaking, hiking and biking at EvergladesNational Park. The 10-day trip, organized byDr. William Edwards and his wife, Coleen, providedan unparalleled opportunity to experience firsthandthe flora and fauna of seven individual ecosystems.“It’s everything we teach in ecology right infront of you,” says Edwards, who came up withthe idea for the trip several years ago, while onhis honeymoon. At the time, both he and hiswife thought that bringing students to the parkwould be an ideal way for them to learn aboutthe ecological concepts they studied in class. Thisyear, they had the opportunity to do just that.For 10 days, the group explored park trails,observing the animals and plants that call the parkhome. They waded into sloughs, took a nighttimehike along a trail that was inhabited by what seemedto be hundreds of alligators, swam with dolphinsduring a visit to a dolphin research center, and visiteda marine rescue center. Each day offered somethingnew for the students, who came away with a newappreciation for the diversity that shapes the ecology.“The Everglades is one huge classroom,” saysDan Murphy, a senior chemistry/environmentalstudies major. “Everything was a new and enjoyableexperience, and we all learned more than weprobably could have imagined.”Dr. William Edwards, foreground, leads AnniePalermo and Jason Davis on a canoe tripthrough Bear Lake Canal in Everglades NationalPark. The trek was part of a seven-hour, 12-milejourney through a mangrove forest, across twolakes, and through tidal marshes during whichthe group saw American crocodiles; a variety ofbirds, including tri-color herons, coots, and bothwhite and brown pelicans; and encountered amother manatee and her baby.eagle magazine 3

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/nu-news/Niagara University and OpportunitiesUnlimited of Niagarahosted an art exhibit featuringthe work of Artisans Unlimitedparticipants from the OUN dayhabilitation programs throughoutNiagara County. The showincluded 41 paintings done inboth realistic and abstract styles,using acrylic and watercolorpaints, Chinese-style inkpaintings, and printmaking.A paper presented by seniorJamison R. Crawford at the19th annual Illinois StateUniversity Conference forStudents of Political Science inApril was selected for a Best PaperAward by Pi Sigma Alpha, theNational Political Science HonorSociety, and will be publishedin the fall 2011 issue of Critique,a worldwide student journalof politics. Jamison’s paper“DIMENSION DEMENTIA: AUniversal Approach to MeasuringReligiosity,” was one of onlyfour undergraduate submissionschosen.KAPPA GAMMA PI INduCtION — Thirty-seven Niagara University students were inductedinto Kappa Gamma Pi, the National Catholic College Graduate Honor Society, during a ceremony heldon April 29, 2011, in St. Vincent’s Hall. Two honorary inductees, Al Oddo and James Kling, Ph.D.,professors in Niagara University’s College of Business Administration, were welcomed into KappaGamma Pi as well.On April 12, Niagara Universityheld a special graduation ceremonyfor participants in theExperience NU program, whichwas offered in collaboration withthe Center for Joy at HANCI’sAfter-School Program. This firsttimeprogram gave 10 fourththrough sixth graders fromHarry F. Abate ElementarySchool a taste of what thecollege experience is like.Thirty students were inductedinto Sigma Alpha Sigma, theundergraduate honor society ofNiagara University, at its 78thAnnual Tapping Ceremony onApril 9, 2011, at the CastellaniArt Museum. Sigma Alpha Sigmawas established by Niagara’sClass of 1933 to recognize andreward the academic and extracurricularachievements of outstandingstudents.StudENt LAuNChES COuNtyWIdE CABLE ACCESS ShOW — During an internshipwith the Niagara Falls City School District’s public relations office, sophomore communication studiesmajor Stacey Czerwinski (center) launched NU Now, a television show that aired on an educationalaccess station produced at Niagara Falls High School. The program, which finds Stacey responsible for setdecoration, devising show treatments, and scheduling and interviewing guests, is focused on updatingarea residents and prospective students about current university initiatives. The first episode featuredinterviews with Niagara Catholic principal Robert DiFrancesco (left) and Niagara University presidentJoseph L. Levesque, C.M. (right).4 eagle magazine

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/nu-news/Local falconer Pete Lutz and his peregrine falcon,Cheyenne, were highlights of Niagara’s Earth Daycelebration on April 13. Sponsored by the university’sSustainability Task Force, the day included a flying falcondemonstration, an electronics recycling fundraiser, avegan bake sale, and an appearance by David Stapleton ofDavid Homes and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition fame.In addition to inspiring awareness of the Earth’s naturalenvironment, the event celebrated Niagara University’sdistinction as one of the country’s most environmentallyresponsible colleges as named by The Princeton Review inpartnership with the U.S. Green Building Council.Niagara was the only college in the Buffalo-Niagararegion included on the list, which was published in acomprehensive guidebook of institutions of highereducation who demonstrated an above-average commitmentto sustainability in terms of campus infrastructure,activities and initiatives.eagle magazine 5

aroundtheridgewww.niagara.edu/nu-news/ReNU Niagara, NU’s communityoutreach program, isadding a GreenRoots LeadershipDevelopment Program toits repertoire thanks to a$27,374 grant from theCommunity Foundation ofGreater Buffalo. The program isaimed at building a youth andadult sustainable residentleadership base in NiagaraFalls to help reduce existingdemographic disparities.NU’s College of Educationhas launched a doctoral degreeprogram in leadership andpolicy. The Ph.D. program,which started accepting applicationsin January, will prepareleaders to implement systemicchange in an effort to furthercommunity goals and aspirations.The program will provide aninterdisciplinary forum fordoctoral study and research onleadership issues that directlyrelate to matters of those whoare underserved.The NYS DevelopmentalDisabilities Planning Councilawarded a $193,270 grant toNiagara University to developand conduct a statewide disabilityawareness and sensitivity curriculumand the correspondingtraining tools for first responders.The program will provide firstresponders with the skills andtools necessary to communicateand assist individuals with disabilitieswhen an emergency arises.Dr. Abdiweli Ali, associateprofessor of economics, wasrecently appointed deputyprime minister and ministerof planning and internationalcooperation in the transitionalgovernment of Somalia. Dr. Aliwas on sabbatical leave duringthe spring semester to focus hisattentions on his new position.Niagara WelcomesRobert H. Healy, veterans services coordinator.A 30-year member of the United States Air Force,Robert will be responsible for developing andimplementing university strategy for increasingand retaining current and former military studentsand their family members, and developing relationshipswith local, regional, and national militaryand veteran organizations to create recruitingsupport conduits.John P. Davanzo, professional-in-residencein the College of Business Administration. Aformer CEO and president of four Western NewYork hospitals, and named by Buffalo BusinessFirst as one of the top 50 people in healthcare,John will teach and mentor MBA students interestedin careers in healthcare administration.Robert H. HealyStudents team up to Fundraise for Food PantryWhat began as a course-related consultation projectfor a local sweets manufacturer became a holidayinspiredfundraising collaboration to benefit a NiagaraFalls soup kitchen and food pantry.In December, students in an NU business classteamed up with Niagara’s Honeymoon Sweets,a family-run confectionery company that transformsphotos into edible chocolate keepsakes, and RegalCinemas to launch a joint fundraising venturefor the Heart, Love and Soul food pantry of NiagaraFalls. The plan involved raffling chances to wingourmet chocolate candies that featured edibleimages of promotional posters for The Chroniclesof Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, amovie that was playing at the Regal Cinemas atNiagara University studentand fundraiser organizerGrant Danby presents aChristmas stocking filledwith cash to Sister BethBrosmer of the Heart,Love and Soul food pantrywhile Mary Ann Hess,owner of Niagara’sHoneymoon Sweets, NUstudent Michelle Martineau,and Bill Angus, assistantprofessor of managementat Niagara, look on.John P. Davanzothe time. Each of the flavorful confectionsweighed 10 pounds.All told, the class raised more than $500 forHeart, Love and Soul, and Niagara University’sCEO Club elected to donate an additional $1,000to the cause, funds raised from the organizationsponsoring a Turkey Trot on campus this past fall.“We are so thankful to these students for takingthe initiative to spend a large portion of theirevenings — especially leading up to exam week —to support our organization,” remarked Sister BethBrosmer, executive director of Heart, Love andSoul. “Many of these young men and women evensacrificed the opportunity to begin their holidaybreaks early to take part in this project.”6 eagle magazine

niagaranotableshelping at homeHaoua Hamza, Ph.D., envisions a large net when she speaks about herrecently established nongovernmental organization, the Global Networkfor Niger. “Like a net catches fish,” she says, “we are creating a globalnetwork to capture resources for those in need.”The people she is referring to are the women of Niger, a landlockedcountry in West Africa that is one of the poorest in the world.Because their families are dependent upon them for subsistence,these women work 16-18 hours per day on difficult, labor-intensivechores. They have little money, power, or access to information,and the vast majority are illiterate. Dr. Hamza knows the situationwell. She, herself, is a native of Niger. While her life is markedlydifferent from most of her countrywomen, she is nonethelesscommitted to helping those who are not as fortunate as she was.Dr. Hamza’s inspiration for this work comes from her mother,Hadjia Awa Oumarou, who served as the regional chair of theWomen’s Association of Diffa for more than a decade, and whowas involved in numerous projects that supported local women’sinitiatives for self-sufficiency during her lifetime. Many of theseactivities took place in her own living room for lack of a dedicatedspace. “Even though my mother passed, we can still try somethingto continue the work,” she says. “That’s why I want badly to dosomething and to take others along with me to see what they can do.”That’s where the GNN comes into play. Developed as a clearinghouseto connect Nigerien women with the resources they need, specifically inthe areas of education, financial stability, and health, the organization isexpected to reduce poverty and empower women socially and economically.A vital component of this plan is collaborations among governmententities, individuals, and educational institutions in Niger, Europe, andthe United States, including Niagara University.“I am interested in creating opportunities for our students and facultyto be involved in service abroad,” Dr. Hamza says. To that end, she isexploring possible partnerships between Niger’s University of Niamey andNiagara’s colleges of Education and Arts and Sciences that could include exchangeprograms, study-abroad opportunities, and online courses. Already, several ofher Niagara colleagues have offered to assist with the project.While the GNN currently has no physical facility in Niger, the organizationreceived a vital show of support in November when the mayor of Diffa donated a500-square-meter plot of land on which an office will be built. Here, women willbe able to access healthcare and educational programs, as well as develop skills thatwill help them to launch individual and collective income-generating businesses.For Dr. Hamza, this donation was tangible evidence of the trust the people of Diffahave in her project.There is still much to be done, including securing funding, material resources,and volunteers, but Dr. Hamza is confident that the GNN will make a difference inthe lives of the women of Diffa. She points to a group of women in a photo taken inher mother’s living room. “If one of these women is able to write her name in herown language,” she says, “if I can see one more woman getting healed, another girlgraduating because of GNN, I think that’s success.”— Lisa McMahoneagle magazine 7

advancingnuwww.niagara.edu/advancementhttp://purple.niagara.edu/promise/Progress bythe NumbersSix and a half: Number ofmonths left to complete “ThePromise of Niagara ... The next150 years” capital campaign.$71,000,000: Total amount incommitments made.14,000: Number of alumni,students, friends, employees,foundations, corporations,and organizations that havesupported the campaign.83: Percent of Niagarafaculty and staff that hasgiven to the campaign.$657,000: The total amountof those gifts.$1 to $10,000,000: The rangeof gifts received.$10,000,000: The largest giftreceived so far (from B. ThomasGolisano for the sciencebuilding which will bearhis name).225: Number of gifts receivedof $25,000 or more, totaling$56,358,703.$9,000,000: Amount givento campaign as unrestrictedsupport to the Niagara Fund.$5,300,000: Amount receivedthrough testamentary andestate gifts.$80,000,000: Campaign goal.For more information and/orto support the campaign, visithttp://purple.niagara.edu/promise/*As of April 30, 20118 eagle magazineNew Nu Scholarships and EndowmentsAt Niagara University, more than 94 percent ofour students receive scholarship aid, totalingmore than $2 million annually. The most recent ofNiagara’s more than 130 endowed scholarshipsinclude the following:The Niagara University Student GovernmentAssociation Scholarship is an annual scholarshipawarded to a returning student with financialneed and a QPA of 3.0 or higher.The Douglas Towey Memorial Scholarship forTheatre Studies was established in memory ofthe late brother of Brother Augustine Towey, C.M.,director emeritus of Niagara University Theatre.It is awarded to theatre majors with financial need.The Greatbatch Scholarship in Honor of EdwardVoboril is awarded annually to a biology, chemicalscience or physical science major. Voboril is a formermember of Niagara’s Board of Trustees.The Elizabeth N. Kolber Scholarship is an annualscholarship for a student with financial need.In addition to these endowed scholarships, thereare several scholarship funds that have beenestablished but have not yet accumulated thenecessary $25,000 to become fully endowed:The Rev. Francis X. Prior, C.M., MemorialScholarship Fund for needy students.Alumnus’s $1.5 Million Gift EstablishesNiagara’s First Endowed ChairNiagara University has received a $1.5 million estategift from alumnus Dr. John J. Hughes to establishthe first endowed chair at the university.The John J. Hughes, ’67 Endowed Chair inBiology will be reserved to support the research,teaching and scholarly activities of a distinguishedscientist and serve as a catalyst for Niagara to buildupon and expand its programs in the interdisciplinarysciences.“This generous gift from the late Dr. John Hughesdemonstrates his belief in the excellence of our facultyand the strength of our academic programs,” said theRev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., Niagara Universitypresident. “The United States is facing a critical needto educate young men and women in the sciences,and Niagara University is poised to provide thekind of advanced, interdisciplinary education thatis vital in preparing students who will take theirplaces as leaders in the scientific community. Thisendowed chair will enable us to expand our worldclassfaculty and enhance our student/faculty researchopportunities in interdisciplinary science.”The Ms. Julie Burdick Memorial ScholarshipFund for theatre students.The Scott Stuart, ’86, Memorial Scholarship Fund.The Command Sgt. Maj. Fred Kirtchen, ’80,Memorial Scholarship Fund for veteransreturning to school.The Rev. Michael Mazurchuk, C.M., ’80,Memorial Scholarship Fund.The Rosaleen T. Carroll MemorialScholarship FundThe Alfonso Oddo Scholarship for AccountancyIf you are interested in establishing a new scholarshipor donating to one of the scholarships listed here, or ifyou would like more information, please contact theOffice of Institutional Advancement at 716.286.8778.“I was fortunate to have had the professors I didwhile I was at Niagara,” Hughes said at the time of hisgift. “They helped me to develop the intellectual habitsthat I carried with me throughout my life. The currentfaculty is doing great things as well, most notably withstudent research. This endowed chair will permit theuniversity to recruit additional top-quality people andhelp it to become recognized for its accomplishmentsin the sciences.”The idea of an estate gift was especially appealingto Hughes. “As I was looking forward, and lookingfor ways to assist Niagara in a meaningful way, Irecognized that with an estate gift I could make asignificant contribution at the end of my life. It ismy hope that others find a way to follow suit.”Hughes’ gift adds to the nearly $15 million thatNiagara’s “Promise of Niagara” capital campaign hasalready raised toward the science program. A majorityof that funding is dedicated to the construction of theB. Thomas Golisano Center for Integrated Sciences.Construction is set to begin on the 46,000-square-footfacility this summer.Hughes died April 27, 2011, at the age of 65.

Niagara Love StoriesMany Niagara University students have met, fallen in love, and married, thanksto their time on Monteagle Ridge. Here are a few of those stories:Meredith, ’04, and Andy Maillet, ’04Wemet in the fall of 2001 as college sophomores. We both livedin Seton Hall that year, Andy as an RA and Meredith as asecond-year resident. After meeting through mutual friends,we both started seeing more of each other around the dorm and aroundcampus as well. It didn’t take long after meeting for us to realizethat we both had a lot in common and begin dating. After graduation,Andy got a teaching position in Meredith’s hometown and moved tobegin his life there. In July of 2006, we got married back where itall started five years earlier, at the Alumni Chapel on the NUcampus. Little did we know when we picked Niagara as our collegethat we would graduate with degrees as well as someone to shareour lives with!Andy, ’04, and Meredith (Plankenhorn) Maillet, ’04Ifirstsaw my future wife, Jan Whistler, ’71, at the La Hacienda restaurant in thefall of 1968. Don’t know if it was love at first sight, but she was definitely someoneI wanted to know better. I had that opportunity on the night of Dec. 7, 1968, whenthe 1956 Buick owned by Dave (The Commander) Frank, ’69, did not start and we decidedto go to the on-campus beer blast in the student center.I was formally introduced to Jan, and as they say, the rest is history. We’ll celebrate our40th wedding anniversary in September 2011.Peter Beaucar, ’69Hewas the science guy; I was the artsy girl.We started out as best friends and the restis history.Todd Janicki, ’99, and I met in the Clet Hall dorm.I chose to live in Clet Hall because it was the theatredorm. Todd was placed in Clet Hall because it wasthe only dorm with an honors floor. Eventually myfriends and I on the fourth floor couldn’t resist meetingthe honors guys on the third floor. I think we were initiallyattracted to the personal computer lab they had on theirfloor, and eventually we all became friends. It’s hard tosay if we would ever have met if we didn’t start out in thesame dorm.12 eagle magazineJennifer (Celebucki) Janicki, ’99Todd, ’99, and Jennifer Janicki, ’99

“Do you believe in love at first sight or should I walk by again?”This is what passed as clever repartee on my part in the 1950s.Susan Garlock, ’59, said, “Keep on hiking.”Many of the details about how this romance developed at NU have fadedfrom my feeble memory, but how I’ve been blessed to have spent 50 plusyears with this wonderful, kind, intelligent, loving wife and mother is theoldest story in the book. I simply got lucky. A wall hanging in Susan’sDonald,’58, and Susan Yezzi,’59Weroom sums it up best: “There are many great love stories, but ours ismy favorite.”Donald E. Yezzi, ’58met during orientation week outside Vinnie’s as we were preparing to walk to theFalls. I saw Bernadette Gaughan, ’81, and I knew right then she would be the girlfor me. We never dated at Niagara, but my friend Patrick Nerney, ’81, andBernadette’s friend Stephanie (Nannery) Nerney, ’81, got us together in Baltimore thesummer after we graduated. We got married on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 1984.Michael J. DePrez, ’81Itis said that going away to college is a life-changing experience.My wife, Mary Leising-Marciano, ’72, and I are livingproof of this statement. We met the first day of registrationfreshman year playing “musical chairs” as we waited in line tosee the dean of each of the departments we were in during thearena registration in the upper level of the Gallagher Center.From that day on, our relationship developed and grew, aswe did, during our four years at Niagara. This year we arecelebrating our 38th year of marriage.There were challenges right from the start. Mary was livingoff campus at the Red Coach Inn. We would see each otherat the student center between classes and I would rely on theNiagara Falls transit system to see Mary on weekends. Inthose days, underclassmen were not allowed to have cars on campus.Dates were walking excursions to the movie houses and the other touristattractions in the Falls. These “walking dates” became more difficult in the late fall andwinter when the winds off Monteagle Ridge were fierce. Thank God for floor-length maxicoats! This time together gave us the opportunity to really get to know each other,including our past as well as our hopes for the future.Over the years, our feet and our eyes must have touched every spot associated with thebreathless beauty around us. One wintry Saturday afternoon, we walked across the RainbowBridge into Canada. It was on that cold day in the garden at the base of Clifton Hill thatI proposed to Mary.One month after graduation, we were married. We rented an apartment in Niagara Fallsand had our honeymoon there.Every time we think of Niagara, we think of how much it is a part of our lives. We stillmeet with old classmates to have a pizza at La Hacienda or to watch a Purple Eagle teamin action. Niagara is the place where we received more than a solid education and values.It is where we found true love.Sam Marciano, ’72Sam, ’72, and Mary Leising-Marciano, ’72eagle magazine 15

6:35 a.m. Erin Baker, ’11 | Women’s soccer practicephoto bookAn around-the-clock look at Niagara University through the photographyand words of students in Lynn Schauer-Bewley’s CMS440A: AdvancedPhotography class.For two months now, the Niagarawomen’s soccer team has hadearly morning practices to fiteveryone’s school schedule. Thesun is just starting to rise over theemptiness of the stadium. Theteam lines up on the sideline fortheir routine warm-up beforeanother difficult fitness practice.They begin with their usual twolaps around the perimeter andthen go right into stretching. Asthe drills begin, the sun riseshigher in the sky, completelyilluminating the field andreflecting off the morning dewthat goes untouched aroundthe field where players have yetto run.16 eagle magazine

8:17 a.m. Taylor Logalbo, ’14 | Winter campusThe scenery on campus is breathtaking attimes, especially early on a winter morning.12:45 p.m. Eleni Vlahos, ’12 | The first snowfallIt is the beginning of December and the firstsnowfall of the year has covered the NUcampus with a soft white blanket of snow.There is no doubt that this snowfall is themost beautiful.2:15 p.m. Derek Zeller, ’12 | WNIAWNIA, Niagara University's radio station,broadcasts live on the Internet whereanyone around the world can listen in. Theradio station was renovated this past year,allowing students the opportunity to usesome of the most modern technology andlearn very valuable firsthand experience.(To listen, visit http://wnia.niagara.edu/)eagle magazine 17

3 p.m. Cole Bielecki, ’14 | Castellani Art MuseumThe moment you step intothis expansive place, you feelthe inspiration of many artists.The emotion and determinationput into these marvelouspieces of art influences manyof the students here at NiagaraUniversity, who spend hoursadmiring the artwork in eachroom. This is a great placeto come if you have timebetween classes to relax andescape from the stresses ofschoolwork and everyday life.18 eagle magazine

6:30 p.m. Sarah Kim, ’12 | NUSGA concert“Two to one, static to thesound of you and I, undonefor the last time ... ” Jack’sMannequin, a rock bandoriginally from Orange County,Calif., performs before acrowd of about 900 in theKiernan Center during aconcert sponsored by NiagaraUniversity’s Student GovernmentAssociation. As thelights dim, fans crowd thestage and begin to cheer, thecold keys of the piano slowlybegin to warm the hearts ofthe students as they singalong, swaying back andforth, snapping photos withtheir best friends, creatinggreat memories.7:04 p.m. Cole Bielecki, ’14 | Purple Eagles hockeyAlmost every seat in the Dwyer Arena is taken as Dave Burkholder and his team wait forthe game against the UConn Huskies to begin.eagle magazine 19

7:20 p.m. Eleni Vlahos, ’12 | Almost, MaineNiagara University’s brand new Leary Theatre is overflowing with excited students who are preparing to go on stage fortheir last performance of the theatre production Almost, Maine. They go to the backstage room of the theatre wing to applytheir make-up, change into their costumes, and do voice exercises. When they are ready, they hold hands and form a circle,taking turns to express their gratitude toward the team or to give an inspirational message before this last performance.Then they all take a deep breath as the audience quiets down, the lights dim, and the curtains open.10:23 p.m. Eleni Vlahos, ’12 | A Classic Christmas at NUNU’s annual student ball hasa holiday theme: “A ClassicChristmas.” The Kiernan Center isbeautifully decorated: tables areadorned with ornaments andpresents, and Christmas lightsshine along the walls. Outside,a horse and buggy wait to takestudents for a ride aroundcampus. It's very cold, soeveryone wraps in blankets toget cozy and warm while theywatch the snowflakes hit theground and listen to the horse'shooves clip clop against thecold pavement.20eagle magazine

11:47 p.m. Taylor Logalbo, ’14 | LibraryThe lower level of the library is quiet at this time of night. It is filled with rows androws of books, which expand and contract at the press of a button. You settleinto one of the comfy chairs in the corner where the lighting will keep youawake. The desk attached to the chair is perfect for your laptop and coffee.eagle magazine 21

More than 1,250 individuals became Niagara University alumni on theweekend of May 21 and 22 at commencement exercises held in theuniversity’s Gallagher Center and the University at Buffalo’s Alumni Arena.Pulitzer Prize-winner Isabel Wilkerson, pictured left, gave theaddress to the undergraduates, while best-selling authorRichard Florida gave the graduate commencementaddress. Both speakers received anhonorary doctor of humane lettersdegree from Niagara.22 eagle magazine

L-r: John R. Sanderson, ’75; the Rev. Joseph Levesque, C.M.,Niagara University president; Richard Florida; and Julie Payette.Also honored during the weekend were alumni John R.Sanderson, ’75, president of Sanderson & CompanyInvestment Consultants LLC, and Kathleen BarryMonti, ’70, MBA’85, retired executive vice president/chief administrative officer for First Niagara FinancialGroup and First Niagara Bank, who received honorarydoctor of commercial science degrees; Julie Payette,an astronaut and public policy scholar at the WoodrowWilson Center for International Scholars inWashington, D.C., who received an honorary doctor oflaws degree; and Martin Chalfie, Ph.D., a professor inColumbia University’s Department of BiologicalSciences and winner of the 2008 Nobel Prize inChemistry, who received an honorary doctor ofscience degree.L-r: Isabel Wilkerson; Father Levesque; Kathleen Barry Monti, ’70,MBA’85; and Martin Chalfie, Ph.D.eagle magazine 23

Bryan Eckenrode,adjunct professorof fine arts.Niagara University ROTCcolor guard.Photo courtesy ofthe Niagara GazettePhoto courtesy ofthe Niagara GazetteFranklin Moore, senior classpresident and recipient ofthe Niagara Medal.24 eagle magazine

A Woman forAll SeasonsBy Sandra Mann Ormsby, ’67If ever there were a “woman for all seasons,” it was RosaleenTeresa Carroll.The mere mention of her name (“Teresa,” as she was knownon the Niagara University campus) evokes an almost nonstopflood of shared memories among her former colleagues, eachstory giving rise to plenty of smiles.The memories are of a kind and caring woman whose blueIrish eyes were complemented by crinkled laugh lines thatbetrayed her enormous sense of humor. Perhaps this is one of thereasons that a month after her death on Jan. 11, at age 80, giftsfrom family, friends, and former colleagues to the Rosaleen T.Carroll Memorial Fund established by her family exceeded$25,000. Niagara University plans to establish a scholarshipnamed in her memory.For more than 30 years Teresa was, as one of her formersupervisors said, a “gate keeper” as secretary to a series ofdeans of the College of Arts and Sciences and later, to severalof the university’s academic vice presidents. She worked full timeuntil well into her 70s.Teresa projected the image of the consummate professional —confident, perfectly attired and coifed, elegantly poised andknowledgeable — who knew the demands made on each of herformer bosses as she carefully managed their schedules. Thelong list of her former supervisors includes Father Joseph L.Levesque, C.M., Dr. John Stranges, Father Daniel O’Leary, OMI,and Dr. Bonnie Rose.Teresa had a way of handling difficult situations, according toDr. Stranges, former dean of the College of Arts and Sciencesand former academic vice president, “in a cool, reassuring, andrespectful manner, trying to solve problems as quickly aspossible.” He recalled times when students came to his office,upset and needing to discuss particular problems with him. Teresaoffered comfort and reassurance as she worked out a way forstudents to meet with Dr. Stranges despite his busy schedule. “Shealways knew just what to do,” Dr. Stranges recalled, adding thatwhen speaking of Teresa “the word ‘trust’ comes to mind — trustin her judgment, competence, and reliability.”Dr. Rose, executive vice president and vice president foracademic affairs, lauded Teresa’s many professional attributes,but added that she misses her, especially her humor. “She had awicked sense of humor!”After retiring, Teresa remained connected with the university anddidn’t miss opportunities to spend time with fellow retirees at the annualretirees Mass and luncheon or the annual university Christmas party.A native of Toronto, Ontario, Teresa immigrated to the UnitedStates in 1959 after her marriage to James Carroll, also aToronto native. The couple settled in the DeVeaux neighborhoodof Niagara Falls, N.Y., where they raised their three sons: John,’82; Jim, ’86; and Frank, ’88. Teresa’s husband died in 1996.Teresa moved to the Boston area in July 2010 to be closer toher sons and their families. In addition to her three sons and theirwives, Teresa is survived by 12 grandchildren, a brother, threesisters, and several nieces and nephews.Funeral services were held in Niagara Falls.eagle magazine 25

inthespotlightwww.niagaraalumni.comA LeaderComes homeWhen Maj. Gen. Vincent “Vinny” E.Boles, ’76, returns to Monteagle Ridgein October as the featured speaker forAlumni Weekend’s “Pantheon of Warriors”event, he likely will share memorableexperiences from his 33-year career inthe Army. And there are many. The highlydecorated general, who is the highestranking graduate of Niagara’s ROTCprogram, has had a distinguished careerpreparing troops for, and at times leadingthem into, war. But what he’s lookingforward to most is the opportunity toconnect with the ROTC servicemen andwomen who have served from the 1950son. “Just to be there and to be considereda part of that arc of history is prettyhumbling,” he says.Vinny’s humility is obvious when he’sasked about his achievements. He is proud,he says, of being considered a good teammateby his soldiers, of being thought ofas someone whose best got better and whohelped others be their best as well. “Whatit’s ultimately about is, are you a teammatefolks can count on?” he says.During Vinny’s service with the Army,hundreds of thousands of soldiers countedon him (and the units he served in) for theammunition, equipment, and trainingthey needed to support them in campaignsincluding Operation Enduring Freedomand Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was thecommander in charge of the Army’s FieldSupport at the time of the September 11attacks, and later, from commands inKuwait and Iraq, he assumed control ofall war reserve supplies and equipmentfrom around the world to prepare for andsupport the Coalition’s operations intoAfghanistan, Iraq, the Philippines, and theHorn of Africa. He was promoted to majorgeneral in 2004 and assigned as the Army’schief of Ordnance, where his experiencewith the global war on terror was a crucialcomponent in the training programs hedeveloped for Ordnance Corps soldiers inthe fields of mechanical and electronicmaintenance, ammunition handling, andexplosive ordnance disposal.26 eagle magazine

inthespotlightwww.niagaraalumni.comVinny assumed duties as the assistant deputy chief of staff forlogistics in the Pentagon in 2006, where he again played an integralrole in the management and support of logistical operations worldwide,with special emphasis on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.By the time he retired from active duty in 2009, at the age of54, he had earned numerous awards and decorations, including theDistinguished Service Medal (two awards), the Legion of Merit, theBronze Star Medal (three awards), the Meritorious Service Medal,the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal,the Parachutist Badge, and the Army Staff Badge.Ironically, a career in the Army was one of the furthest thingsfrom Vinny’s mind when he left his hometown of Bronxville, N.Y.,for the Niagara University campus in 1972. His father, an IrishCatholic immigrant who worked in the restaurant business, hadexpected that his son would follow in his footsteps. But Vinnyhad other ideas. Deciding that he had to come up with a “PlanB,” he enrolled at Niagara as a business major, not quite surewhere the degree would take him. In his sophomore year, at theurging of friends who were in the university’s ROTC program, hetook a military history class. He enjoyed it so much that he changedhis major to history, and although he was unsure about what he’ddo after graduation, he said he never thought about making theU.S. Army a career.Even after Vinny learned about and applied for the ROTCscholarship that would pay for his last two years at Niagara, henever expected to spend more than the required four years in theArmy. But a leadership development course he took during thesummer between his junior and senior year changed his mind.He “got turned on” by the cadets he was training with and theopportunities he was given to lead, he says, and he discoveredthat he enjoyed getting tasks accomplished and had an aptitudefor doing so. He especially liked the fact that the Army’s valuesbasedenvironment mirrored Niagara’s, and that anyone whoembraced the Army’s standards could succeed. “I found thattremendously liberating as a young man,” he says.So Vinny returned to Niagara with a new enthusiasm for theROTC program. He planned to pursue service in infantry, militarypolice, armor, or military intelligence, but was commissioned as asecond lieutenant of Ordnance. His disappointment was tempered bythe fact that only a handful of his classmates received assignments.After graduation, Vinny headed to Fort Knox, Ky., to begin serviceas a maintenance officer. In 1982, he and his wife, Cheryl, also aNiagara alum from the Class of 1976, moved to Berlin, Germany,where he was chosen to be an aide to Maj. Gen. John H. Mitchell,a position that he calls “the most seminal development opportunityof my life,” and one that confirmed his decision to make the Armyhis lifework. Although his goals were characteristically modest — hewanted to become a major — his knowledge and skills propelled himup the Army’s career ladder until his retirement two years ago.Vinny’s military leadership and logistics expertise serve him wellin his new vocation as a speaker, teacher, consultant, corporateboard member, and executive coach. While on active duty, heconducted dozens of presentations for the Army’s outreach programand today, he speaks to groups, sharing the lessons he learnedwhile leading one of the most important and complex supplychains in the world.— Lisa McMahonniagara to Honor“Pantheon of Warriors”OOn Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, Niagara’sservicemen and women from the 1950s tothe present will be honored for theircontribution to our nation’s defense at the“Pantheon of Warriors,” a ceremony thatwill highlight the university’s militarytradition. Graduates of Niagara’s ROTCprogram who were commissioned, calledto active duty, and served during a wartimeperiod are invited to attend the event,during which they will be individuallyrecognized and thanked for their service.Maj. Gen. Vincent E. Boles, ’76, thehighest ranking graduate of Niagara’sROTC program, is the featured speaker forthe event, which will take place at 10 a.m.in the upper level of the Gallagher Center.A luncheon will follow. To make yourreservation or for more information,contact Jaclyn Rossi, assistant directorof alumni relations, at jrossi@niagara.eduor 716.286.8770.eagle magazine 27

alumniassociationupdatewww.niagaraalumni.comAlumni AssociationBoard of directorsMartin Byrne, ’78PresidentJeffrey Dann, ’74Frank Fiannaca, ’85Gregory Hudecki, ’68Past PresidentBarbara Malinowski, ’59Father Stephen Denig, C.M., ’71Alumni ChaplainArt CardellaDirector of Alumni RelationsMaureen Becker, ’90Shannon Bloomquist, ’07Timothy Carroll, ’84Carol Cassell, ’79Ashleigh Cirilla, ’02James Collard, ’74Christopher Coyer, ‘93Frances Crosby, ’67Kimberly Dreier, ’09James Hart, ’69Michael Hogan, ’76Julie Kwasniak, ’06Anthony Lista, ’80Mary Lou Markowski, ’90Paul McCarthy, ’60Dianne Moll, ’89Michael Moll, ’89Jaclyn Rossi, ’08Robert Sheehan, ’85Lisa Sheremeta, ’95Melinda Smith, ’78Jason Stein, ’93Michelle Van de Loo, ’01Dear fellow alumni,Our Alumni Association is growing and planning activitiesacross the country to connect with and engage our alumni.But we need help from everyone to make our eventssuccessful. Recently, the alumni executive committee helda meeting to plan some special initiatives to reach out andinclude more alumni in our activities. Those plans include:• Encouraging our more established alumni to connectwith our younger graduates so that they stay involvedwith Niagara and attend local chapter events. To contactall alumni, it is critical for us to have the most currentinformation; you can update yours using the Eagle’sNest (www.niagaraalumni.com). We have reached outto thousands of alumni through social networking siteslike Facebook and have explored an “app” to enablealumni with smart phones to stay in constant contactwith Niagara through the Eagle’s Nest. These types ofinitiatives will help us to continue our growth and contactwith all alumni. Also, we plan to actively market newsabout our Niagara alumni in all markets with anexisting chapter, so watch your local news for these kinds of stories.Martin Byrne, ’78, with Barbara Malinowski,’59, a member of the Niagara UniversityAlumni Association executive committee.• Undertaking an aggressive plan to strengthen our existing alumni chapters, such as those in Charlotteand Boston, and add more alumni events in areas including Dallas and Colorado. We will need yourinvolvement to make this happen. A list of existing chapters and chapter leaders is printed in eachissue of the Eagle; contact those individuals listed and get involved now! Visit the Eagle’s Nest fornews of our progress.• Extending the true Vincentian philosophy by challenging the NUAA board and chapter leaders to identifya community service project in each area. Contact the alumni office to report your involvement incommunity service projects. We plan to acknowledge the successes of these projects throughout the year.Three years ago, we had the idea of reestablishing the Niagara Alumni Association. The success werealized from those three years allows us to expand on the initiatives listed here. But we need your continuedinvolvement and support. Please update your information on the Eagle’s Nest and continue to visit so youcan stay active with the Alumni Association.I’d like to thank everyone for their great encouragement, and I am genuinely excited about these plansfor the next two years. Together, we will continue to strengthen our support of all the alumni and showthe pride of the Purple Eagles!Sincerely,Martin Byrne, ’78President, Niagara University Alumni AssociationAlumni ChaptersAlbany ChapterBob Sheehan, ’85518.441.2758rjsheehan2002@yahoo.comAtlanta ChapterMelinda Smith, ’78404.934.6135 or 770.935.4511msfundraiser@bellsouth.netBoston ChapterTony Lista, ’80508.951.2641tonylista@aol.com28 eagle magazine(L-r) Charles Wright, ’62, Peggy and David D’Amato,’73, and Lina Voutour at the Buffalo/Niagara chapterdinner theater on Dec. 4, 2010.Katy Cotton, ’09, Monte, and Mike Hobbs, ’08, atthe Purple Eagle Madness alumni event on campuson Feb. 4, 2011.

alumniassociationupdatewww.niagaraalumni.comAlumni events are a great way to stay connected to Niagara, no matter your location!We have a lot in store for our chapters in the upcoming months. Don’t forget to add these dates to yourcalendar and check out the Eagle’s Nest at www.niagaraalumni.com for more information.*Don’t receive our e-mails about events? Send your updated information to alumni@niagara.edu!July23 Albany — Saratoga Day at the RacesAugust13 Buffalo/Niagara —Boat cruise on the moondanceCatSeptember15 Buffalo/Niagara —Presidential reception21 National Capitol — Buffalo Nite22 Tri-State — Presidential ReceptionTBD Chicago — Networking eventOctober7-9 Alumni WeekendTBD Raleigh and Charlotte, N.C. —Networking event(L-r) Josie Alexander, ’94, Michelle Lazarczyk Tosi,’93, Emmy Garcia, ’93, and Elizabeth Caliva Dozier,’76, at the Boston Harbor Cruise on May 13, 2011.(L-r) Mary Lonergan Lamb, ’77, Drew Dittrich, ’76,and Gwen and Bill Webb, ’64, at the Atlanta chapterNU vs. Georgia Tech game on Nov. 19, 2010.TBDEvents in Atlanta, Cleveland,Central New YorkHow do I register for an event?1. Online at the Eagle’s Nest:www.niagaraaalumni.com2. By phone at 716-286-87873. By mail:Alumni Relations OfficeP.O. Box 2008Niagara University, N.Y. 14109-2008*Event calendar is subject to change. The listingincludes only the confirmed events as of printing.Check the Eagle’s Nest for the full listing.Dan Moore, ’89, Kyle Moore, and Cathy O’Donnell,’88, at the Boston chapter NU vs. Northeasternhockey game on Nov. 5, 2010.Karolina Bazylewicz, ’05, and Stephanie McJury, ’07,at the Washington National Capitol chapterPresident’s Reception on May 5, 2011.Buffalo-Niagara ChapterNancy Langer ’78716.836.5188nmlanger@aol.comShannon Bloomquist, ’07716.316.5873shannon.m.bloomquist@gmail.comCentral New York ChapterMarty Byrne, ’78315.424.7139Byrneirish7@aol.comLisa Sparks-Sheremeta, ’95315.622.3443 or 607.316.1884lisa.sheremeta@hilton.comCentral Maryland ChapterMaureen Becker, ’90410.744.2400mmbbaltimore@aol.comCharlotte ChapterJason Stein, ’93704.332.8407jstein@carolina.rr.comChicago Chapter“Windy City Purple Eagles”Lavisse Smith, ’75630.410.8597Lavisse.Smith@jostens.comCleveland ChapterTimothy Carroll ’84216.479.8655tcarroll@ssd.comMary Lou Markowski, ’90mlmarkowski@roadrunner.comDelaware Valley ChapterAshleigh Cirilla, ’02585.766.1690acirilla7@yahoo.comFrank Fiannaca, ’85856.665.5600ffiannaca@usapayrollnj.comRochester ChapterMike Moll, ’89585.924.2414mmoll2@rochester.rr.comDianne Moll, ’89585.924.2414diannemoll@rochester.eduTri-State ChapterMichelle Vandeloo, ‘01917.685.1675michelle.vandeloo@aig.comWashington NationalCapitol ChapterPaul McCarthy, ’60703.931.6478paulmccarthy@earthlink.neteagle magazine 29

inthespotlightwww.niagaraalumni.comIntrigued by the Power of the MediaJack Essig, ’92, loves what he does. It’s apparent in the energy andenthusiasm with which he describes his job, his sales and marketingteam, and his community service activities. And it’s one of the keys tohis success. The others? A supportive wife and a strong work ethic thathas propelled him to the position of senior vice president and publisherof Men’s Health and Women’s Health magazines and websites, responsiblefor advertising sales and marketing for the two brands.“I’ve always liked magazines, advertising, and media,” Jack says. “Theidea of influencing millions of people and the power of the mediaintrigued me.”Jack got his start as a sales/marketing coordinator at a weekly tradepublication in Manhattan. He sought out opportunities to go beyondhis job duties, earning the notice of his supervisor and a promotion toa junior sales position eight months later. His trajectory to his currentrole at the bestselling (single copy) men’s magazine included launchingBob Vila’s American Home magazine for Hearst Publications andpositions with Traditional Home and Men’s Journal Magazine. He joinedMen’s Health 10 years ago as advertising director and was promotedto associate publisher just two years later. In 2005, he was namedto his current position, taking on the additional roles of senior vicepresident and publisher of Women’s Health in 2009.Like many in the industry, Jack is spending much of his time investigatingthe opportunities presented by the changing media landscapeand developing content for readers who get their information in a varietyof ways. One of his most recent projects was developing an advertisingprogram to launch Gatorade’s G Series Fit low-calorie beverage thatcombined traditional advertising avenues as well as newer ones likewebisodes (video that appears on the Internet rather than on broadcastor cable television).“It’s an exciting time to be in media, but with that comes a learningcurve,” he says. “It’s a whole new ballgame. The way our jobs areevolving is making all of us step out of our comfort zones. There’ssomething exhilarating about that.”One of the most successful initiatives Jack has launched on the eventfront is the Men’s Health Urbanathlon, a signature event that extended thebrand to a first-of-its-kind race platform. Introduced in 2006 in New YorkCity and later expanded to Chicago and San Francisco, the Urbanathlonincorporates iconic city landmarks into the race, including the staircases at7 World Trade Center in New York City and the bleachers in Soldier Field.“It’s really taken off,” Jack says, noting that he has participated ineach of the Urbanathlons. “Thirty thousand racers from 34 statesparticipate, from weekend warriors to elite athletes. Our readers loveit because it is a completely different race experience and requiresunconventional training.”Proceeds from the event go to the Challenged Athletes Foundation,an organization that provides opportunities and support to people withphysical disabilities so they can pursue active lifestyles through physicalfitness and competitive athletics. Jack, who serves on the foundation’scouncil, calls the people it serves “the most inspiring group of individualsI’ve ever worked with.”Jack also mixes business with service as a member of the NationalFather’s Day Committee, using Men’s Health as a forum to recognize“everyday” fathers as “All-Star Dads” alongside celebrity dads at theAnnual Father of the Year Awards in New York City.Although he hesitates to call himself a triathlete, Jack participatesin several such races each year, including the Malibu Triathlon andthe South Beach Triathlon, which are sponsored by Men’s Health andWomen’s Health. “It’s one way I live the brand,” he says.Since Essig has been at the helm, Women’s Health was namedAdvertising Age’s 2009 “Magazine of the Year” and both Men’s Healthand Women’s Health were named to Adweek’s annual Hot List. In2007, Essig was named to Advertising Age’s prestigious “40 Under40” list that recognizes excellence in the publishing industry. He hasalso been honored by Media Industry Newsletter at its annual SalesExecutive of the Year Awards.Jack credits these accomplishments to a team that shares his passionand conviction for the brands and a supportive wife (Kathy Smith, ’93)who takes care of things at home, including their four daughters, sothat he can stay focused on work. Even with this strong support system,balance is sometimes elusive for Jack. He notes that although hesometimes must accept quality time over quantity time, he prioritizesweekly family dinners, kids sports, and date nights with Kathy. “I’mno different than any other busy dad,” he says. “What I work hardestat is keeping balance.”Despite the challenges ofcareer and family, Jack loveswhat he does and is awareof the impact he has onhis readers. “I’ve beenincredibly blessed,” hesays. “I consider myselflucky to have had theopportunities I’ve had.We change people’s livesfor the better everyday.”— Lisa McMahon30 eagle magazine

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comclassnotesCA&S = College of Arts & SciencesCBA = College of Business AdministrationCE = College of EducationCN = College of NursingCH = College of Hospitality & Tourism ManagementITHRA = Institute of Travel, Hotel & RestaurantAdministration (pre-CH)TTT = Transportation, Travel & Tourism (pre-ITHRA)1960s Michael Ricci, ’69 (CA&S), Auburn, N.Y.,is the author of a monthly column for the AuburnCitizen. He has written for the newspaper sinceMarch 2010. The father of seven boys and five girls,Ricci founded three organizations in the Auburnarea: the Kids Sandlot Baseball League, which wasthe first in his community to include girls; the Boysand Girls Baseball League; and the Auburn SpellingBee for Grades 1-8, which was later expanded toinclude children from across New York state andother states. All three organizations continue today.The former English teacher recently retired from a52-year tenure as a high school baseball umpire. Heis a member of the Toastmaster’s Club at the rankof Advanced Communicator Silver and is workingtoward the Gold ranking.Clarence Sundram, ’69 (CA&S), Delmar, N.Y., theleading national expert on the provision of care todevelopmentally disabled persons and other vulnerablepeople, has been appointed special advisor onvulnerable persons to New York state GovernorAndrew Cuomo. In this position, Sundram willevaluate and provide recommendations to thegovernor concerning state programs related todevelopmental disabilities, mental health, alcoholand substance abuse, children, and the elderly. Hewill also coordinate with the Governor’s Spendingand Government Efficiency (SAGE) Commission toevaluate and provide recommendations concerningthe management, design, and structure of stateagencies operating or overseeing programs or facilitiesfor vulnerable persons.1970s Brendan Coyne, ’70 (CA&S), Cornwallon-Hudson,N.Y., was elected the 28th mayor ofthat village in March.Mark D. LaRoach, ’70 (CBA),Endicott, N.Y., was appointedsuperintendent of schools inthe Vestal, N.Y., central schooldistrict in March 2010.Thomas M. O’Neil, ’70(CA&S), Rochester, N.Y., hasbeen appointed interim presidentand chief executive officer of Bishop KearneyHigh School.Hon. Sara Sheldon Sperrazza, ’72 (CA&S),Niagara Falls, N.Y., was recently re-elected to asecond 10-year term as Niagara County Courtjudge and surrogate. She is also a supervising judgefor town and village courts in the eight counties ofWestern New York.Mark A. Cavanagh, ’73 (CBA/Accounting), Oneida, N.Y., hasbeen promoted to senior vicepresident, mortgage originations,at Oneida Savings Bank.Mary Jane (Grajewski) Gross,’73 (CN), Piedmont, Calif.,founder and former presidentand CEO of Stars Behavioral Health Group, is therecipient of the 2011 National Council of BehavioralHealth Care Award of Excellence for VisionaryLeadership, and the 2011 Alameda County Women’sHall of Fame Award in Health. Both are in recognitionof the significant contributions she has madeto the field of behavioral healthcare. (See articleon page 40).J. Michael DeVoria, ’74 (CBA/Accounting),Macedon, N.Y., has been appointed to senior vicepresident, business banking market executive, withFive Star Bank.Harold “Buzz” G. Garlock, ’74 (CBA/Commerce),Orlando, Fla., has recently been appointed seniorvice president and public funds manager of theFifth Third Bank in Tampa Bay.Margaret (Meade) Gerlach, ’75 (CN), Rochester,N.Y., received certification in wound ostomycontinence nursing and foot and nail care fromEmery University. She is also certified in geriatrics andis working at Highland Hospital in Rochester, N.Y.Edward A. Johnson Jr., ’76 (CBA/Accounting),Kenmore, N.Y., was named vice president forfinancial affairs at D’Youville College.Pamela Brady-Webb, ’78 (CN), Humble, Texas,has been appointed an ambassador by the NationalLeague for Nursing. In this role, she will keep facultyand educational leaders in all schools of nursinginformed about the NLN’s programs, grant opportunities,and member involvement initiatives.Martin Byrne Sr., ’78 (CBA), Syracuse, N.Y., hasbeen elected to a two-year term as president ofNiagara University’s Alumni Association, whichworks closely with the Office of Alumni Relations.Michael S. Gawel, ’78 (CBA/Accounting), NiagaraFalls, N.Y., tax principal at S&D Consulting, Inc.,has been named manager of the organization’s newoffice in Orchard Park, N.Y.Anthony A. Murad, ’79 (CA&S), Utica, N.Y., hasbeen recognized for the third consecutive year inUpstate New York Super Lawyer Magazine. SuperThe Eagle magazine is nowavailable online at http://eagleonline.niagara.edu/.Or, if you prefer, read the Eagleright from your Smartphone!1. Open a barcode scannerapplication on your Smartphone(search your appstore for “barcode reader,”or “QR code scanner”) ordownload one (such asScanLife: www.getscanlife.comor text SCAN to 43588)2. Point your phone’s camera atthe following code and scan.3. The code will bring youright to the Eagle online!If you’d like to view the Eagleonline rather than receive aprinted copy of the magazine,send your e-mail address toLisa McMahon, editor, atlmcmahon@niagara.edu.eagle magazine 31

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comKovach’s New ChapterNearly a decade ago, when others his age werebeginning to think about retirement, LarryKovach, ’67, was beginning a new chapterin his life. After 34 years serving in financialand administrative positions for organizationssuch as Price Waterhouse; Vorys, Sater, Seymourand Pease (one of the top-grossing law firms inthe nation); and the El Paso Buzzards minorleague hockey team, Larry jumped on theopportunity to try something new: workingwith the Confederated Tribes of the GrandRonde Community of Oregon.“I had spent my working life in professional/business environments,” Larry says. “Whensomething else materialized involving somethingtotally new and different, somethingout of my comfort zone, I had to considerit. It was an opportunity to learn and workin a new area along with relocating to a partof the country that I had never been to.”As finance officer, Larry played a pivotal role indirecting the tribal government’s fiscal practices. In2007, he was asked to take on additional financialresponsibilities for the Spirit Mountain Casino, thetribe’s casino/hotel/conference center in GrandRonde. A year later, a gaming consultant recommendedhim to Miko Beasley Denson, chief of theMississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, who offeredhim the position of executive vice president/CFOof the tribe’s Pearl River Resort. In 2008, Larrybecame CFO for the tribe.The reservation in Mississippi is a long way,literally and figuratively, from Larry’s roots in NiagaraFalls, Ontario. His parents, John and Mary, wereimmigrants from Yugoslavia and Ireland, respectively.They had little formal education, but their devoutCatholic faith and strong belief in education ledthem to make the sacrifices necessary to send theironly child to Catholic school. When John died aftera three-year bout with cancer, Mary continued towork as a housekeeper in the parish rectory to supporther son’s education. Larry graduated from NotreDame College School, where the priests encouragedhim to consider Niagara. He enrolled as an accountingmajor, graduating magna cum laude and earninga full scholarship to the University of Notre DameLaw School. Before he completed his first semester,however, his mother became ill and could no longerwork, so Larry left South Bend and took a jobwith Price Waterhouse’s Buffalo office, launching hiscareer in the financial services industry.Larry worked his way up the corporate ladderat Price Waterhouse (where he eventually becamenational director of financial services) and servedas chief operating officer at several law firms, thenspent three years managing venture capital projectsalong the U.S./Mexico border. In 2000, when theeconomic slowdown caused the venture capitalindustry’s sharp decline, he accepted an offer froma law firm in Dallas before he found the job inOregon, which ultimately led to his current rolewith the Choctaw tribe.Today, in what he has called “the legacy part” ofhis career, Larry relishes the opportunity to assistthe Choctaw people. The best part of the job, hesays, is “the chance to work with the tribal chiefin providing tribal members with the opportunityfor a better life through education, training andemployment, within their own environs and culture.”— Lisa McMahon32 eagle magazineLawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyersfrom more than 70 practice areas who have attaineda high degree of peer recognition and professionalachievement. The selection process is multiphasedand includes independent research, peer nominations,and peer evaluations.Charles Trascritti Jr., ’79 (CBA/Accounting),Naperville, Ill., has been named vice president ofcorporate development for Morrison ManagementServices, the healthcare division of CompassGroup PLC.1980s Craig R. Dumbleton,’81 (CE/French), Sanborn, N.Y.,is vice president of key accountrelationships and marketing atTry-It Distributing Co., Inc.Bernard J. Turi, ’82 (CA&S/Psychology), Utica, N.Y., associategeneral counsel and claimsattorney, has been promoted tosenior vice president with theUtica Mutual Insurance Company,the Utica National InsuranceGroup’s principal membercompany, located in NewHartford, N.Y.

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comDr. James P. Pellow, ’83 (CBA/Accounting), Pelham, N.Y., hasbeen named president and CEOof the Council on InternationalEducational Exchange, effectiveJune 1, 2011. He will becomethe fourth president and CEOof CIEE in its more than 63-year history.Robert C. Capuano, ’84 (CBA/Accounting),Tampa, Fla., has accepted the position of treasurerof the board of directors for the Lions Eye Institutefor Transplant and Research.Timothy Dupree, ’86 (CBA), Los Angeles, Calif.,has been named associate director of sales andmarketing for Montage Hotels & Resorts. Thisfollows an 18-year career with Four Seasons Hotels& Resorts.Kenya Mann Faulkner, ’86 (CA&S/CriminalJustice), Ambler, Pa., has been appointed to leadthe Pennsylvania Inspector General’s Office.Anthony “Tony” Troia Jr., ’86 (CA&S/Communications),Romulus, Mich., was sworn in as apracticing attorney before the Supreme Court ofthe State of Michigan. He has been working atthe firm of Edmund Maciorowski, P.C., inBloomfield Hills, Mich., for six years and has nowbeen appointed to the position of associate attorneyfor the organization.Edward B. Bradley Jr., ’87 (CA&S/Communications),New Hartford, N.Y., completed hisfirst marathon, the Niagara Falls InternationalMarathon, on Oct. 24, 2010. Competing in thewheelchair division, he completed the 26.2-milecourse in 4:36:15.Kimberley A. (Shepard) Minkel,’88 (CA&S/Biology), Lancaster,N.Y., has been named executivedirector of the Niagara FrontierTransportation Authority. She isthe first woman to be appointedto this position in the history ofthe NFTA.John D. Craig, ’89 (CBA/Marketing), Lockport,N.Y., has been promoted to vice president foreducation and outreach at WNED Buffalo-Toronto.Linda Ann LaBarbera, ’89 (ITHRA/Travel, Tourism,Transportation), Niagara Falls, N.Y., has been nameda general ledger specialist with Tronconi Segarraand Associates, a certified public accounting andbusiness consulting firm with offices in bothWilliamsville and Niagara Falls.Kris Riedell, ’89 (CBA), Wellington, Fla., has beenpromoted to vice president of human resources forAlzheimer’s Community Care.1990s Gary W. Ferris, ’90(CA&S/Communications),Schenectady, N.Y., has beenappointed executive director ofthe Adirondack Saratoga chapterof the American Red Cross.Michael S. Harrington, ’91(CA&S), Glenmoore, Pa., attainedthe distinguished “Leaders in Law” ranking in the2011 Chambers USA Guide.Dr. Stephen Cook, ’92 (CA&S/biology), Fairport, N.Y., assistantprofessor of pediatrics at theUniversity of Rochester MedicalCenter, was recently honoredby two organizations for hisadvocacy, research, and work inchildhood obesity prevention. InMarch, he received the Dr. DavidSatcher Community Health Improvement Awardby the URMC’s Center for Community Health.This award is presented to individuals who havemade significant contributions to communityhealth in the greater Rochester region. In April, hewas recognized by the American Heart Associationwith its Science Advocate of the Year Award, whichis given to a medical professional who is activelyengaged in communicating with lawmakers onbehalf of the association’s heart and stroke issues.Dr. Cook is chairman of the Childhood ObesityCommittee for the New York state chapter of theAmerican Academy of Pediatrics, a member of theNational Advocacy Task Force of The Obesity Society,and serves on state and national committees of theAmerican Heart Association. He was instrumentalin developing the Healthi Kids initiative in MonroeCounty, N.Y., and its policy agenda to reverse childhoodobesity. Dr. Cook is also actively involved inthe American Heart Association’s public policy agendaas a member of its You’re the Cure nationwide networkof volunteers.Dr. Bradley J. Porfilio, ’92 (CA&S/History), GlenCarbon, Ill., won the Critics Choice Award fromthe American Educational Studies Association for avolume he co-edited: The destructive path of neoliberalism:An international examination of education.Dr. Elizabeth J. Heavey, ’95 (CN), Rochester,N.Y., has published a textbook for practicing nursesthat provides a clinically based resource for understandingstatistics. She uses the book in the courseshe designed and teaches in SUNY Brockport’s RNto BSN program.60 Seconds With:Kimberly Reimels, ’98Hometown: Harrisburg, Pa.Degree: B.S. in biologyCurrent job: Financial advisorMy best memory at Niagara is:getting to meet the BarenakedLadies. I walked into the GallagherCenter during the band’s soundcheck and they asked if they couldsing to me. A personal serenadefrom the band is pretty neat!My favorite hangout was:Gallagher Center.The most important life lesson Ilearned at NU was: to give backto your community.I am inspired by: my family; theyare truly fantastic people.The three words that describeme are: honest, loyal, and energetic.When I’m not working you’ll findme: hosting a segment for a localTV show about food, running,knitting, or hanging out withfriends and family.I still want to learn how to:speak Spanish.Five random facts about me:1. My father, uncle, two brothers,and sister all graduatedfrom Niagara.2. My dream is to one day hosta show on the Food Networkor QVC.3. I can whip up a batch ofhomemade chocolate chipcookies in less than 10 minutes.4. In one day I saw the St. LouisArch, the Washington Monument,the Statue of Liberty,and Niagara Falls.5. I ran my first half marathon lastyear in Richmond, Va.We’d like to get to know youbetter! In each issue of the Eagle,we’ll spend a minute (or so) withan alum from a random area ofthe country and ask a fewquestions to find out more abouthim or her. Will you be next?eagle magazine 33

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comImpeccable tasteTo us, it’s a strawberry. But to Gerard Mosciano,’62, it’s a complex mixture of more than 800organic compounds that together contributeto a flavor that we perceive as the small, ediblered fruit.Jerry is a creative flavorist, a chemist whocreates artificial and natural flavors. Keeping theend product in mind (which can include foods,beverages, confectioneries, pharmaceuticals,cosmetics, and nutritional products) he usesaromatic ingredients, botanical extracts, andessential oils to match its basic flavor profile anddesired physical form. He compares the work toan artist who knows which paints to combine tocreate the exact color he is looking for.“It’s an art and it’s a skill, but you have to knowwhat the ingredients can do,” he says.Jerry didn’t plan to become a flavorist. Whenhe graduated from Niagara with a natural sciencedegree, he began working for the New JerseyHealth Department as a food chemist. After ayear he went to a technical placement companythat placed him with International Flavors &Fragrances as an instrumental chemist. There,he performed analyses of the flavor ingredientsin various food products.For several years he commuted from his homein New Jersey to IFF’s flavor laboratories in NewYork City, but as his family grew (he and hiswife, Barbara Nebel, ’62, have four children),his desire to spend more time at home grew withit. So he inquired about other positions withinthe company and, after proving that he had theappropriate skills, was given the opportunity toapprentice with a senior flavorist.“A lot of people can taste, but there is adifference in the way my brain is wired,” he says.Jerry studied for a total of seven years underthe tutelage of his mentors before earning certificationfrom the Society of Flavor Chemistsand the title of senior flavorist in 1974. Hethen pursued a creative flavor career with asmall company in Philadelphia where he sayshe got his first “real affirmation” that he coulddo the job. “It was me, a blotter, and a wall ofbottles,” Jerry recalls. Without the assistance ofa research and development department or analyticalinstruments, he created his first commercial flavorsale, a cherry used in hard candy. “It was myfinest moment,” he says.Since then, Jerry has fabricated thousands offlavors, a process that can take anywhere froma few hours to more than a year. After spendingalmost 40 years creating flavors for several flavorcompanies, Jerry established G. Mosciano Ltd.as an independent flavor consultant. He servedas president of the Society of Flavor Chemistsand of The Chemical Sources Association, andrecently edited the book Successful Flavors.Now retired, Jerry still consults on flavors,meeting with several senior creative flavorists fortastings each month, the results of which he usesin the monthly column he writes about theorganoleptic characteristics of flavor materialsfor Allured Publications’ Perfumer & Flavorist.He notes that people’s perception of flavors is verysubjective and has evolved over the years. Despitethe consumer’s changing tastes, what was truewhen Jerry began his career is true today: “Thebest flavor is the one that sells.”— Lisa McMahonGerard Mosciano, ’62, with an odor blotter that he uses to evaluate the aroma of aflavor ingredient. The blotter, which is identical to those used in department storeperfume counters, allows the evaporation of a perfume or flavor ingredient so thatits top notes, middle notes and substantivity can be determined.34 eagle magazine

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comHelen F. Donohoe, M.S.’96 (CE/Education),Burlington, Ontario, Canada, is co-author ofthe published curriculum resource titled Frenchas a Second Language, for use by teachers inOntario classrooms.Theresa (Hanson) Leslie, ’96 (CA&S/Spanish),Fort Collins, Colo., has been promoted to vicepresident of billing administration and data supportat American Support in Chapel Hill, N.C., anorganization which offers billing services, techsupport, and customer service call center operationsand management.Hon. Christine L. (Strenkoski)Robinson, ’96 (CA&S/CriminalJustice), Venice, Fla., has beenappointed to the Sarasota CountyBoard of Commissioners byFlorida Governor Charlie Crist.Kimberly Ann Schwenzer, ’98(CA&S/Theatre), Webster, N.Y.,received recognition as the top salesperson of CGICommunications for two years in a row.James DeVivo, ’99 (CA&S), Woodbridge, N.J.,recently achieved doctoral candidacy in the educationaltheatre program at New York University. Hewill begin working on his dissertation in fall 2011.2000s Victoria Abrams, ’00 (CE/English),Newport, R.I., has been promoted to humanresources director at The Newport Harbor Hoteland Marina. She has been with the hotel for fourand a half years and was previously the salescoordinator in the sales and catering office.Carmen Floyd Calloway, ’00 (CA&S), New York,N.Y., starred in the new William Finn/JamesLapine musical Little Miss Sunshine. Based on theAcademy Award-winning film, the musical had itsworld premiere at the LoJolla Playhouse in March.John M. Coyle, ’00 (CA&S/Political Science),Boston, N.Y., is an associate attorney with the lawfirm Chelus Herdzik Speyer and Monte.Richard L. Myles, M.S.’01 (CE/Education), WestHenrietta, N.Y., is beginning production of MentalScars 2, the sequel to his 2009 horror film. Myles, whowill star in the film, is co-creator of the DeadZoneMagazine, the Apple iPhone’s first and only interactivehorror magazine. In addition, his song, The BeatNever Stops, has been selected as the theme song for thecable-TV show Eye On Entertainment. The song is offMyles’ Ambient Nights Vol. 2 album.Timothy J. Gentner, ’03 (CA&S/Mathematics),Buffalo, N.Y., has been promoted to underwritingmanager in BlueCross BlueShield of Western NewYork’s general business unit.Amber Zito, ’03 (CA&S), Lakewood, Ohio, hasbeen selected to present research she conductedon suicide in the terminally ill population to socialworkers at Hospice of the Western Reserve inCleveland, Ohio, as well as to medical providersin Ashtabula County, Ohio.Deidra Desrocher, ’04 (CH), Rochester, N.Y.,was promoted to event planner/manager at LocustHill Country Club in Pittsford, N.Y.Patricia Freedman, ’06 (CA&S), Elmira, N.Y., hasbeen promoted to ticket office manager at WatkinsGlen International Raceway.Carol (Cali) Lea Gilbert, ’07 (CH/SportManagement), Sausalito, Calif., completed hermaster of arts degree in sport management at theUniversity of San Francisco in December 2010.Eric R. Soro, ’07 (CBA/Accounting), NorthTonawanda, N.Y., has been promoted to the seniortax advisory group at Dopkins and Company, acertified public accountants and consultants firm.Robert M. Ingrasci Jr., ’08,Niagara Falls, N.Y., has beenpromoted to senior accountantin the tax department of Lumsden& McCormick. Ingrasci recentlypassed all four parts of the CPAexam and earned his hourlyrequirement to be a CPA.Christopher J. Patti, ’08 (CBA/Accounting),Cheektowaga, N.Y., has been named a senioraccountant with the certified public accountingfirm Brock Schechter and Polakoff.Robert A. Dornan, ’09 (CBA/Accounting),Rochester, N.Y., has been promoted to partner anddirector of 401K advisory services with the AngeloPlanning Group, LLC, a wealth management andestate planning firm in Rochester.Camille E. Granchelli, ’10 (CH/Tourism andSpecial Events), Baltimore, Md., has accepted theposition of assistant manager of event services withthe Buffalo Waterfront Marriott.Jeffrey Ryan, ’10 (MBA/Accounting), Buffalo, N.Y.,has been named a staff accountant with the firmChiampou Travis Besaw & Kershner, an Amherstaccounting firm.Matthew E. Sajn, M.S.’10 (C.E.), Fenwick,Ontario, co-wrote the narrative for the musicvideo Highway, which he filmed with his band,Northern Primitive.Kevin Gleason, ’11 (CBA), Johnstown, Pa., codrovewith his father and brother in Grand-Am’sContinental Tire Sports Car Challenge series, whichstarted in January at Daytona International Speedwayin Daytona Beach, Fla.Find us!Facebook Fan Page:Niagara University AlumniLinkedin Group:Niagara University AlumniTwitter Username:NiagaraAlumnieagle magazine 35

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comFond MemoriesJerry Nashel, M.S. ’76 (far right), sent in this photo from a year-end appreciationdinner held for student staff in 1976. Jerry was a resident assistant on the seventhfloor of O’Shea Hall during the 1975-76 academic year. Some of his fond memoriesinclude painting a “Seventh Heaven” mural on the wall across from the elevator;false fire alarms; having his door “pennied,” (four pennies were glued to hisdoorjamb); and water wars. If you have a “Fond Memory” to share, send it toLisa McMahon, editor, at lmcmahon@niagara.edu.Editor’s Note: Thank you to Mark Caloza, '82; Victoria C. Omeltchenko; MaryDeegan Egan, ’84; Isabel Menendez, ’80; Terri (Abrams) Connor, ’83, and MaryBeth (Sowers) O'Brien, ’80, who helped to fill in the blanks about the “FondMemories” photo published in the November/December 2010 issue of theEagle. The picture was from the freshman orientation parade, an annual eventthat helped to welcome incoming freshmen to the Niagara University community.Each year, teams of studentswould dress up in outfitscorresponding to the themeof the parade and walkfrom the campus to theFalls along Route 104.Residents who lived alongthe way would set up chairson their front lawns to watch the festivities and cheer on the students. Laterthat evening, a party was held to award prizes to teams for creativity, spirit, andenthusiasm. While the parade is no longer a part of the orientation activities,new students participate in a convocation, a sports day carnival and barbeque,and enjoy a fireworks display as part of their welcome to the campus.militarynewsRobert Laver, ’71 (CA&S), Dumfries, Va., retired inJanuary 2011 after 39 years with the U.S. Army invarious military and civilian positions.Maj. Gen. Vincent E. Boles, ’76 (CA&S), Madison,Ala., was appointed as a proxy board chairman toiDirect Government Technologies, a United Statessubsidiary of VT iDirect, Inc., in October 2010.(See story on Maj. Gen. Boles, page 26.)Lt. Col. Michael E. Rutkowski, ’93, Alexandria,Va., has been selected for program management/battalion for Aviation Systems at Redstone Arsenal,Huntsville, Ala.marriagesKaren Jezewicz, ’97, Midlothian, Va., to JamesLovetro, Midlothian, Oct. 10, 2010.Theresa Ditlow, ’02, Chicago, Ill., to NicholasGriffiths, Dec. 11, 2010.Michelle L. Mott, ’02, Lockport, N.Y., to PhillipSilvestri, Clarence, N.Y., June 26, 2010.Patrick D. Noonan, ’03, Albany, N.Y., to BrianneBaggetta, Sept. 25, 2010.James D. Reilly, ’03, Ronkonkoma, N.Y., to BonnieCox, Ronkonkoma, Sept. 18, 2010.Jacob Scott Wolff, ’09, Batavia, N.Y., to ElizabethLouise Grinnell, Batavia, July 31, 2010.birthsadoptionsTo Mr. and Mrs. William Bradley Blaisdell IV,’91, Ellsworth, Maine, a daughter, Alexandria Ray,Oct. 5, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Dominic Cristelli, ’92, Smyrna,Ga., a daughter, Audrey Kate, Dec. 9, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Michael Puma (Suzanne Lalor,’93), Ossining, N.Y., a daughter, Cassidy Elizabeth,Oct. 6, 2010.To Dr. and Mrs. David W. Hojnacki (Kristen M.Colucci, ’97, M.S.Ed.’99,’06), Grand Island, N.Y.,a son, Rocco Eugene, Nov. 17, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Craig J. Thrall (Mary M. Mahar,’97, M.S.’99), Lockport, N.Y., a son, Maxim DavidRollin, Nov. 23, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Mark J. Nairus, ’98, ParmaHeights, Ohio, a daughter, Peyton Christina,Jan. 11, 2011.To Dr. and Mrs. Todd Janicki, ’99 (JenniferCelebucki, ’99), Dublin, Ohio, a daughter,Lauren Elizabeth, Nov. 16, 2010. (Read their “LoveStory” on page 12.)36 eagle magazine

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comTo Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Synor (Cathie L.Petheram, ’99), Sanborn, N.Y., a son, NathanielTimothy, Oct. 25, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Steven B. Parsons (Jennifer LynnRuettimann, ’99), East Amherst, N.Y., a son,Nathan Robert, Oct. 5, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Jason Ciurzynski (Anne M.Pignataro, ’00), Cheektowaga, N.Y., a daughter,Elena Caroline, Jan. 6, 2011.To Mr. and Mrs. Michael Gutmann, ’01(Kimberly Costello, ’02), Charlotte, N.C.,a daughter, Madelyn McNally, Sept. 8, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Nunez (Angela M. Rizzi,’01), Binghamton, N.Y., a son, Alexander Emilio,Aug. 11, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. William (Bill) Lenz, ’02, NorthMerrick, N.Y., a daughter, Abigail Katherine, anda son, Kyle Jason, Dec. 9, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Peter Arena (Kathleen MarieMcMillan, ’03), Amherst, N.Y., a son, HenriJames, Sept. 20, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Jonas van Cleef, ’05 (EmilyMurphy, ’05), Hazel Park, Mich., a daughter,Avalyn, Dec. 21, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. John Siwicki (Nichole MarieTubiolo, ’05), Rochester, N.Y., a son, JohnPatrick, Sept. 22, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth E. Warren (KristenN. Yacono, ’05), Alden, N.Y., a daughter, BrookeMarie, Dec. 10, 2010.To Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Nemi, ’06 (DanielleM. Milleville, ’06), Lockport, N.Y., a son, DavidRobert, Dec. 15, 2010.deathsto have a Mass celebrated at Alumni Chapel,call Nu’s campus ministry office at 716.286.8400.R. Teresa Carroll, Newton, Mass., Jan. 11, 2011.Teresa worked as a secretary at Niagara Universityfrom 1974 until her retirement in 2005. (Read moreon page 25.)Anthony B. Colitti, ’37, West Islip, N.Y.,Oct. 11, 2010.Seward G. Smith, ’41, Pflugerville, Texas,Feb. 26, 2011.Walter F. O’Connor, ’42, Pensacola, Fla.,Feb. 16, 2011.Walter V. Ebert, ’43, Aurora, N.Y., Dec. 6, 2010.Harry Crook, ’47, Omaha, Neb., March 6, 2011.Kennard W. Webster, ’47, Davidson, N.C.,Oct. 14, 2010.Robert F. McMahon, ’48, Daytona, Fla.,Sept. 1, 2010.Richard F. Hirsh, ’50, Barrington, R.I.,Oct. 9, 2010.Ralph A. Chille, ’52, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,Feb. 8, 2011.Paul J. Connelly, ’52, Fairfield, Conn.,Nov. 15, 2010.G. Russell Sornberger, ’54, Sanborn, N.Y.,Aug. 2, 2010.Robert J. Frame, ’55, Lewiston, N.Y.,March 2, 2010.Elizabeth Wallace Gormley, ’57, Lewiston, N.Y.,Jan. 2, 2011.John J. Graney Jr., ’57, Hyde Park, N.Y.,Jan. 14, 2011.Col. Joseph J. Kokalas, ’58, Vienna, Va.,Jan. 14, 2011.David W. Mandyck, ’58, Endwell, N.Y.,Feb. 7, 2011.Robert C. Roman Sr., ’60, Pearl River, N.Y.,Sept. 18, 2010.William J. Roberts, ’61, Buffalo, N.Y.,Dec. 22, 2010.Robert Grandjean, ’64, Port Saint Lucie, Fla.,Jan. 19, 2011.Michael J. Spagnola, ’65, Rochester, N.Y.,Nov. 5, 2010.John T. Lockwood, ’68, Tucson, Ariz.,Dec. 29, 2010.James Lee DiSanto, ’69, Clyde, N.Y., Nov. 13, 2010.John Hurder, ’69, Auburn, Calif., April 10, 2011.Jeanne (Wezel) Salerno, ’70, Sag Harbor, N.Y.,Jan. 14, 2011.Lydia Anna Wozniak, ’72, ’75, Santa Clara,Calif., March 5, 2010.Ottavio J. Forlivio, ’73, Plantsville, Conn.,March 1, 2011.Lt. Col. Benjamin E. Perry, ’76, Lewiston, N.Y.,Dec. 30, 2010.Donald H. Reed, ’77, Hamilton, Ontario,Sept. 16, 2010.Richard D. Caufield, ’80, Rochester, N.Y.,March 13, 2011.Barbara (Blackmon) Malyak, ’81, West Seneca,N.Y., Sept. 26, 2010.Michelle L. Mott, ’02, and PhillipSilvestri wed June 26, 2010.eagle magazine 37

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comA Pioneer in Cardiovascular healthAs a child, Regina (Houghton) Deible,’85, would tend to the injuries her foursiblings and neighborhood friends wouldsustain during their outdoor pickup gamesof baseball, basketball, football, and thelike. A few years later, she administeredinsulin shots to her diabetic grandmotherand helped to manage her other necessarycare. So it came as no surprise when Reginaenrolled in Niagara University’s Collegeof Nursing. It seemed to be her destiny.The Rochelle Park, N.J., native (whonow lives in Annandale, Va., with herthree children and her husband of 20 years,Dan), has put her nursing degree to use ina variety of settings. From bedside nursingto ICU nursing, research work to management,she has taken advantage of whateveropportunity came her way during the past25 years. One of the most life-changing opportunitiescame shortly aftergraduation, when she“I had the chanceto follow pivotaltechnology from thebench to bedside.”took a position as aresearch coordinatorin the field of interventionalcardiologyat the WashingtonHospital Center.Despite the fact shehad “absolutely noprior experience,”Regina worked with someof the pioneers in the field and “was personallyinvolved in almost every single early device, stent,and acute MI (myocardial infarction) trial.”“I started in the field when there weren’t anyapproved devices and had the chance to followpivotal technology from the bench to bedside,”she says.Her early on-the-job experience led to opportunitiesto design training programs for novicecoordinators, and she later joined GeorgetownUniversity’s faculty to teach the process. Today,she divides her time between working in a cardiaccatheterization lab at the National Institutes ofHealth Heart Center at Suburban Hospital inBethesda, Md., and consulting with the medicalindustry on research trials. She has more than120 publications, abstracts, and presentationsto her name, and her first book chapter on thetopic was recently published in the third editionof Invasive Cardiology: A Manual for Cath LabPersonnel. In January, Regina was honored bythe Foundation for Cardiovascular Medicinewith the John Tworoger Achievement Awardfor her work in advancing and promoting CVmedicine while remaining committed to thehands-on care of patients.Although she had little interest in researchwhile she was at Niagara (“ ... the nursing researchclass was the singular class that I least enjoyed,”she says), once she was out of school she “foundresearch to be a nice little niche field” that providedthe intellectual stimulation she desired to complementher bedside work.Regina credits the education she received atNiagara with preparing her for her dual roles asresearcher and clinician.“Looking back, I marvelthat we did as much aswe did. Technically, weall double-majored andcompleted all those clinicalrequirements that weren’teven credit hours,” she says,jokingly adding that thenursing students were“more than a bit bitteron those snowy morningsat 6 a.m. when our friends all slept in as we venturedinto Buffalo for our clinicals!”With plans to stay active in the field andultimately earn a doctorate degree, Regina alsosees a more Vincentian pursuit in her future.Noting that her hospital has a “Mobile Med”program that provides screening, diagnostictesting, and therapeutic techniques for cardiovasculardiseases to the uninsured, she says thatthis is just one example of how she can use herexperience and expertise to help those in need.“I think the future holds many hours of volunteeropportunities for me,” she says, “and I lookforward to those days ahead.”— Lisa McMahon38 eagle magazine

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comHelen Grace Maroon, ’81, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,Jan. 22, 2011.Ann (Kremer) Reinhardt, ’81, Queens, N.Y.,Jan. 7, 2011.John J. Gleason, ’84, New York, N.Y.,July 11, 2010.John P. Bartolomei Jr., ’92, Lewiston, N.Y.,Oct. 27, 2010.Daniel S. Sim, ’06, LaVergne, Tenn.,March 25, 2011.withsympathyTo Jean (Cleary) Mullane, ’53, Lockport, N.Y.,on the death of her sister, Lorraine C. Monin,Sept. 6, 2010.To Jerome F. Gormley, ’54, Lewiston, N.Y., on thedeath of his wife, Elizabeth Wallace Gormley, ’57,Jan. 2, 2011.To Mary Wallace Neville, ’59, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,on the death of her sister, Elizabeth WallaceGormley, ’57, Jan. 2, 2011.To Michael J. Colitti, ’61, West Chester, Pa., onthe death of his father, Anthony B. Colitti, ’37,Oct. 11, 2010.To Donald R. Crowell II, ’69, Lancaster, Pa., onthe deaths of his father-in-law, Eugene F. Monin,Aug. 16, 2010, and mother-in-law, Lorraine C.Monin, Sept. 6, 2010.To Barbara (Giordano) Mastriani, ’70, Schenectady,N.Y., on the death of her mother, Gilda Giordano,Aug. 9, 2010.To Thomas E. Monin, ’70, Tacoma, Wash, on thedeaths of his father, Eugene F. Monin, Aug. 16, 2010,and mother, Lorraine C. Monin, Sept. 6, 2010.To Glenn R. Vitek, ’70, Mission Viejo, Calif., on thedeath of his father, William J. Vitek, Dec. 29, 2010.To Carol (Monin) Crowell, ’71, Lancaster, Pa.,on the deaths of her father, Eugene F. Monin,Aug. 16, 2010, and mother, Lorraine C. Monin,Sept. 6, 2010.To Ronald J. Kovatch, ’71, Stauton, Va., on thedeath of his mother, Rose Kovatch, Dec. 9, 2010.To Dr. Susan Kay Roll, ’74, Clarence Center,N.Y., on the death of her mother, Onnolee G.(Hartwig) Roll, Oct. 25, 2010.To Elizabeth S. (Sacheli) Caruso, ’75, Brockport,N.Y., on the deaths of her father-in-law, Joseph J.Caruso, Feb. 15, 2011, and her mother-in-law,Hilda Caruso, Jan. 30, 2011.To Vincent J. Laurendi Jr., ’78, Lewiston, N.Y.,on the death of his father, Vincent J. Laurendi,Dec. 8, 2010.To Jane (Monin) Yacono, ’78, Lockport, N.Y., on thedeaths of her father, Eugene F. Monin, Aug. 16, 2010,and mother, Lorraine C. Monin, Sep. 6, 2010.To Mary Kay Briceland-Merrifield, ’79, EastAmherst, N.Y., on the death of her father, Donald J.Briceland, Oct. 24, 2010.To Lori (Cincebox) Caufield, ’81, Rochester,N.Y., on the death of her husband, Richard D.Caufield, ’80, March 13, 2011.To Greg Reinhardt, ’81, Queens, N.Y., on thedeath of his wife, Ann (Kremer) Reinhardt, ’81,Jan. 7, 2011.To John J. Carroll, ’82, Needham, Mass., on thedeath of his mother, R. Teresa Carroll, Jan. 11, 2011.To Tom Kremer, ’85, Rochester, N.Y., on thedeath of his sister, Ann (Kremer) Reinhardt, ’81,Jan. 7, 2011.To James R. Carroll, ’86, Newton, Mass., on thedeath of his mother, R. Teresa Carroll, Jan. 11, 2011.To Michael J. Curran, ’86, Rye, N.Y., on thedeath of his father-in-law, Donald J. Briceland,Oct. 24, 2010.To James J. Perham, ’86, Las Vegas, Nev., onthe death of his mother, Beatrice M. Perham,Dec. 6, 2010.To Betsy A. (Briceland) Curran, ’87, Rye, N.Y.,on the death of her father, Donald J. Briceland,Oct. 24, 2010.To John Kremer, ’87, Rochester, N.Y., on thedeath of his sister, Ann (Kremer) Reinhardt, ’81,Jan. 7, 2011.To Thomas P. Maroon, ’87, Philadelphia, Pa., onthe death of his mother, Helen Grace Maroon, ’81,Jan. 22, 2011.To Francis C. Carroll, ’88, Franklin, Mass., on thedeath of his mother, R. Teresa Carroll, Jan. 11, 2011.To William N. Maroon, ’93, Philadelphia, Pa., onthe death of his mother, Helen Grace Maroon, ’81,Jan. 22, 2011.To Kristen (Yacono) Warren, ’05, Alden, N.Y.,on the deaths of her grandfather, Eugene F. Monin,Aug. 16, 2010, and grandmother, Lorraine C.Monin, Sept. 6, 2010.To Patrick M. Oliveto Jr., ’06, Rochester, N.Y.,on the death of his mother, Joanne V. (Velardi)Oliveto, Dec. 29, 2009.To Vincent T. Laurendi, ’08, Lewiston, N.Y., onthe death of his grandfather, Vincent J. Laurendi,Dec. 8, 2010.ApologiesThe names of the class agentsrepresenting Niagara’s Class of1960 during Alumni Weekend2010 were inadvertently omittedfrom the dinner-dance programbooklet. Many thanks go outto Dennis J. Carroll, AnthonyDiLaura, F. William Joynt,Joseph A. Matturro, MichaelO. McGuire, and Thomas E.Wolff for contacting their classmatesto invite them to thereunion weekend.Joseph Latona, ’70, Farmingham,Mass., was mistakenly listedamong the deceased membersof his class at Alumni Weekend.He would like to let his classmatesand friends know that heis alive and well, and living inMassachusetts.eagle magazine 39

alumninoteswww.niagaraalumni.comChanging LivesMary Jane Gross, ’73, discovered earlyin her nursing studies that what patientsoften needed most was someone to talkwith. This insight has guided her careerand motivated her to become an entrepreneurand advocate for people withmental illness.For the past 40 years, Mary Janehas dedicated her life to bringing highqualitymental health treatment andcost-efficient services to children,families, and communities who cannotafford them. Her extensive health andmental health nursing and administrativeexperience spans all levels ofhealthcare delivery. She is a memberof numerous state and national organizationsand has served on many oftheir boards. She was also one of thefirst supporters of the California Mental HealthServices Act, which provides funding for transformationalchange in the mental health system.But perhaps her greatest accomplishment isthe founding of Stars Behavioral Health Group,one of the largest mental health organizationsin California with 15 locations and more than1,000 staff serving over 25,000 clients each year.These clients are poor, homeless, uninsured andunderinsured adults, youths, and families whowould have no other way to access the mentalhealth services Stars provides.Mary Jane’s introduction to the mental healthfield came in her sophomore year at Niagara,when Sister Bernadette Armiger, then dean ofthe College of Nursing, encouraged her to applyfor a National Institute of Mental Health grant.“It was a time when they desperately neededmental health nurses,” Mary Jane notes. As arecipient of the grant, Mary Jane was requiredto attend graduate school, so she enrolled inthe community mental health nursing programat UCLA after graduating from Niagara. There,she learned about programs and services designedto enable the poor to receive treatment in theircommunities rather than in hospitals and institutions,and was inspired to focus her careeron providing quality behavioral healthcare inthe most comfortable and compassionatesettings possible.As founder and former president and CEOof Stars Behavioral Health Group, Mary Janehas designed, implemented and operated a widevariety of innovative mental health prevention,early intervention and treatment services thatadhere to stringent quality standards and evidencebasedpractices to ensure successful outcomesfor clients. The organization, which is viewedas “a place where lives are changed,” has enabledthousands of clients to achieve and maintainrecovery, develop meaningful lives and live asindependently as possible.This work is closely aligned with the principlesMary Jane learned while at Niagara.“The Vincentian values of working with thepoor and needy and ministering to the sick arevalues I have kept and practiced my whole life,”she says. “I credit Niagara with infusing thesevalues into my education, and the nursing facultyfor demonstrating how this is implemented innursing practice on a daily basis. These valueshave been with me and I have used them to guidemy life and career.”Mary Jane’s tireless commitment and visionaryleadership has earned her numerous awards andrecognitions. Two of the most recent include the2011 National Council of Behavioral Health CareAward of Excellence for Visionary Leadership,and the 2011 Alameda County Women’s Hallof Fame Award in Health. Both are in recognitionof the significant contributions she hasmade to the field of behavioral healthcare andto the citizens of the counties Stars BehavioralHealth Group serves.Now retired, Mary Jane continues her work asa senior advisor to the organization she founded.And although she now is involved more withthe administration of the company than withproviding direct care to its clients, she says thatshe never “lose(s) touch” with nursing. “Everyday, I use the nursing process that I learned atNiagara to think through problems and determinesolutions to help people in difficult situations,”she says. “It’s a way of thinking and acting. This,together with the lens of Vincentian values, determinesthe actions of how I live my life and whatnursing is about.”— Lisa McMahon40 eagle magazine

anuviewMonteagle MemoirsEditor’s note: The following is an excerpt from an essay by Franklyn E. Daily Jr., ’39, sharing some of his memoriesof being at Niagara in the late 1930s. For the full story, visit the Eagle online at eagleonline.niagara.edu.Very Rev. Joseph M.Noonan, C.M.Rev. Francis L.Meade, C.M.Rev. Thomas D.O’Connor, C.M.Rev. Joseph F.Illig, C.M.His first day: In September of 1935, Niagara University welcomed the largest incomingclass in its history. One hundred twenty-five young men arrived on campus that fall.I was privileged to be one of the new arrivals. Newspapers covered the event. My pictureappeared in both the Niagara Falls Gazette and in the Buffalo Courier-Express, under thehorizontally outstretched arm of entering freshman basketball phenom Gene Seymour,with classmate “Butts” Bittner under his other arm. Gene was a near 7-footer intendedto make the starting five on Taps Gallagher’s varsity basketball team. Gene never did, butI became assistant to the assistant manager of the team.Vincentians: Father Glavin, prefect of discipline; Father “Okie” O’Connor, my confessor;Father Francis L. Meade, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Father Noonan, universitypresident; Father Illig, who taught apologetics; and Father Desmond, rector of the seminary,who had the ability to converse with young men both seriously and informally.Memorable professors: Erich Buchterkirchen was my German professor. He had oneof the larger department offices on campus, with a wall behind him that featured a hugeswastika flag. He thought we should emulate German students (whom he said were givena tankard of beer to put on their shoulder and then had to drain the contents) and tookus to Hannel’s Bar downtown.Professor O’Connor was a polio victim who made his way around campus trying notto wince from his pain. He never complained. He taught solid analyticdescriptive geometry. His teaching tool? The walls in the classroomcame to a point on both sides of his desk. The intersections formedthe convenient Cartesian coordinates for the x-, y-, and z-axes. Whatan outstanding teacher he was!NU Athletics: Our hoop team played a semifinal nationalchampionship game at the Palestra in Philadelphia against Templeand lost by one point. Niagara’s basketball court was on the top floorof St. Vincent’s, directly over our freshman and sophomore dormson the third floor. Our class provided “swivel hips” Morgan Davis tofootball and he could run with the ball. We also had Franny Blake,the first man I ever saw who could “palm” a basketball.My one memory of baseball is of a small group meeting in therefectory on a warm early fall afternoon in 1936 to hear a talk onbaseball. It was advertised to feature a key baseball man. Imaginemy surprise to be sitting next to Connie Mack, the famed managerof the Philadelphia Athletics.Mealtime: Niagara’s refectory was our dining hall. The Sisters whooperated it baked delicious rolls on Sundays, but you had to get thereearly enough. I got there early enough. Although the Sisters did nothave a lot of money to work with, they did have advantages: Niagarahad its own dairy, orchards, and fields of Niagara (green) grapes. Weate a lot of applesauce. Cousin Tommy Dailey and I, always hungry,used the orchards as meal supplements.Student laundry: The U.S. Post Office offered a standard-issuesuitcase that a student could buy to put laundry for shipment backhome. Mothers would ship back the fresh clothes in that same suitcase. Some studentsshipped every week, some shipped every month!Dorms: Our cots were side by side in the freshman dorm on the third floor of St.Vincent’s Hall. About 80 of us slept there; we were allowed one footlocker betweenadjacent cots. No space for any more cots or footlockers. No walls to break up thatbig dorm room. No air conditioning to freshen the air. The janitor, and I recall himwell, put the morning coffee grounds from the refectory on the oiled floor and thenwould sweep them up to clean the floor each day. That helped a lot!Rev. WilliamGlavin, C.M.Rev. Francis X.Desmond, C.M.Eric BuchterkirchenBy Franklyn E. Daily Jr., ’39have something to say?We’re looking for topical personalessays for “A NU View.” Articlesshould be approximately 700words on the topic of your choice.Send them to: Lisa McMahon,Editor, Office of Communicationsand Public Relations, NiagaraUniversity, N.Y. 14109 or emailto lmcmahon@niagara.edu.eagle magazine 41

Office of Institutional AdvancementNiagara University, NY 14109Nonprofit Org.U.S. POSTAGEPAIDNiagara University, N.Y.Permit No. 1CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTEDYou never call, you never write …How many times have you thought about your friends from college,but didn’t have a clue about how to actually reach them?The Eagle’s Nest alumni online community will help you get and STAY connected.www.niagaraalumni.comIt’s been one year since our relaunch of the Eagle’s Nest!Check out all it has to offer:• Alumni Directory• NUws and Events• Post Class Notes• Career Center• And much, much more!Become a Member of theNiagara University Heritage SocietyAnd leave a lasting legacy —one that provides tax and other financial benefitsSave money on taxes and preserve more assets for your family when you includeNiagara University in your will, make a life-income gift (such as a charitable giftannuity or a charitable remainder trust), and/or designate the university as abeneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance policy.By making any of these kinds of planned gifts to Niagara University, you becomea member of the Heritage Society. The type of gift that is best for you depends onyour needs and expectations. We encourage you to talk with your financialadvisor, family, and Niagara University about the options available to you.For more information, contact Leslie K. Wise, director of planned giving andsenior major gifts officer, at lwise@niagara.edu or 716.286.8590.To register on the Eagle’s Nest, visit www.niagaraalumni.com and click“First-time Login”* in the upper left-hand corner of the screen. Follow theon-screen prompts and you’ll be reconnecting with old friends in no time!Call us at 716.286.8787 or email us atalumni@niagara.edu with any questions.*Your first-time login code is located above your name on the address label above.