Medaille Magazine Spring 2005 by Medaille University

MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

MEDAILLE

CAMPUS KUDOS ALUMNI PROFILE ALL YEARS REUNION FACULTY PROFILE NEWS & NOTES STUDENT PROFILE

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a breakthrough season Women’s Basketball ■

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT PAGE 1 REUNION NEWS PAGES 2-7 ALUMNI PROFILE PAGE 6 ACCEL NEWS PAGES 8-9 FACULTY PROFILES PAGES 10-11 NEWS AND NOTES PAGES 12-13 ATHLETICS PAGES 14-15 CAMPUS KUDOS PAGE 16 MEDAILLE ARCHIVES PAGE 17 STRATEGIC PLAN PAGES 18-19 MEDAILLE GRADS IN FINANCIAL SERVICES PAGES 21-27 STUDENT PROFILE PAGE 28 CLASS NOTES PAGE 30-32 LADY MAVS PAGES 33-36

MEDAILLE GRADS AT M&T BANK PAGE 21

CONTENTS

MEDAILLE GRADUATES ASSETS IN THE FINANCIAL MARKET GRADS AT M&T BANK, FIRST NIAGARA AND KEYBANK PAGE 21

COVER STORY LADY MAV’S BASKETBALL A BREAKTHROUGH SEASON PAGE 33 LADY MAVS: TEAM PROFILE PAGE 33-36

ALL YEAR’S REUNION 2005 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS PAGE 4

MEDAILLE

COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

Editor: Jonathan Gill, Director of Editorial Services, jgill@medaille.edu Writers: Tom Burns, Senior Director of Communications; Detra McTier, Grant Writer; Matthew Coleman ’05, Student Photography: Timothy J. Walsh ’85, ’02; Tom Burns; studio 4190 Design: sansSerif design

Contributors: Timothy J. Walsh ’85, ’02, Assistant Vice President for College Relations; Vince Clark, Senior Director for Government, Corporate and Foundation Relations; Keith Koch ’00, Alumni and Medaille Fund Officer; Dr. Ted W. Pelton, Associate Professor, Humanities; Jennifer Bavifard, Executive Director, ACCELerated Learning Programs, Amherst

The Medaille College magazine is published for alumni, students, and friends of Medaille College. Address change, comments, article and photo submissions, and class briefs should be directed to the Editor, c/o the Office of College Relations. Medaille College Agassiz Circle, Buffalo, NY 14214 716.884.3281 716.884.0291 fax www.medaille.edu

MESSAGE from the PRESIDENT As we move towards the close of another academic year, it is important to reflect on the past months and look ahead to the plans for the future of Medaille College. Medaille continues to see great growth and development as a college and the development of our Strategic Plan will chart the now course for the College. Over the past year you have heard a great deal about the development of our Strategic Plan. Now that we have completed the Plan, and it has been approved by the Board of Trustees, I wanted to provide you with some highlights as we move forward and put the plan into action.

One of the key pieces to the Strategic Plan is the mission of the College. This mission defines who we are as a college and academic community. It takes into account our history and traditions, as well as our vision for the future. Our mission also defines what makes us different from other institutions and what difference that makes in the lives of our students. With its basis in the mission of the College, the Strategic Plan is important to the continued success of Medaille because it will guide every aspect of the College for the next several years. One of the other underlying successes of the Strategic Plan which needs to be highlighted is the amount of work dedicated to this document by a wide range of faculty and staff across our campuses. A project of this magnitude is not taken lightly. It is clear from the final document that the individuals charged with this responsibility understood their role in the future of the College and they worked extremely hard in the development of the Plan. The committee dedicated to this project should be celebrated for their efforts in developing our roadmap for the future. Because it will guide the future success of Medaille College, this will not be the last time I write about the plan. I look forward to discussing the plan and its implications with you in the future. I hope you and your family enjoyed a safe and healthy spring and summer and I hope to see you soon. Sincerely,

Joseph W. Bascuas, Ph.D. President

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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■ ALUMNI NEWS - ALL YEARS REUNION

ASSOCIATIONNEWS

   It has been 12 years since Medaille’s first All Years Alumni Reunion in 1993,

when more than 275 graduates had a wonderful weekend filled with a barbeque, tent mixer, Karaoke, dancing, WNY tours, and an ice cream social. 1993 was the year construction began on the Medaille Campus Center, Washington Post journalist and author Juan Williams was the commencement speaker, and 400 alums and seniors gathered on the 38th Floor of the Marine Midland Center for the annual Alumni Senior Night activities. ■ ■

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Make your plans now for the 2005 All Years Reunion - Rediscover Medaille, June 3-5.

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■ ALUMNI NEWS - ALL YEARS REUNION

All Years Reunion

Dear Alumni, 2004-05 was a very exciting year for the Medaille College Alumni Association. We were able to increase both the number of events and the number of participants, two things that bode well for the future.

On June 3rd, 4th and 5th, 2005, Medaille College will be hosting its first All Years Reunion in more than ten years. The last reunion, held in 1993, attracted hundreds of Alumni, family, and friends to campus.

Other successes include: ■

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This year’s Reunion theme is Rediscover Medaille. This is very appropriate considering all of the changes that have happened recently. Since the last All Years Reunion, the College has:

First 100% Alumni Board contribution rate to annual Medaille Fund; New events such as affinity reunions, networking, and social events helped “Welcome Back” old and new alums from all campuses; and New faces recruited to Alumni Board (25 nominees for 16 seats this year).

Added two new residence halls that house more than 450 students; ■ Constructed and expanded the Kevin I. Sullivan Campus Center; ■ Landscaped a new quad to serve as an outdoor activity center; ■ Spent millions on technology upgrades, including the installation of smart classrooms; and ■ Developed new undergraduate and graduate degree programs. ■

As we move forward, we expect to continue to build on these successes. We are currently in the middle of running our Alumni Board Scholarship Fund Raffle, with the winners to be announced at our big event, the Medaille College All Years Reunion - Rediscover Medaille. Planning for the Reunion has been underway for more than a year, and I encourage all of you to join us for a wonderful weekend of events and socializing on the revamped Medaille Campus. For more information about the raffle or the Reunion, please contact Keith Koch, ‘00, Alumni and Medaille Fund Officer.

For more information or to register, visit www.Medaille.edu/ Rediscover or contact Keith Koch ‘00, Alumni and Medaille Fund Officer at 716.884.3411 x146 or kkoch@medaille.edu.

Despite all of these changes, however, the best things have stayed the same. There is still an outstanding facultyto-student ratio. Teachers and classmates know your name and provide support. And there are opportunities everywhere to get involved, whether with an academic club or a sports team.

As I complete my term as President, I am pleased to have been able to give something back to an institution that has given so much to me. Please join me in welcoming the new slate of directors and officers at Reunion on Saturday, June 4th, 2005, preceding the Alumni Awards and Reunion Dinner. All alums encouraged to meet their 2005-2006 board directors and officers.

At the Reunion, you will be able to network and socialize with friends and faculty. You can enjoy great events such as the golf tournament, sporting events, and campus tours. And you can feel that warm, close, family atmosphere that makes Medaille such a special place.

Thank you and best wishes for a successful future.

So look for your invitation in the mail. Then make your reservations and be sure to Rediscover Medaille.

Sincerely, Christopher M. Gengo, ‘02, MBA Medaille College Alumni Association President

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

Medaille College All-Years Reunion S C H E D U L E of E V E N T S

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■ Medaille College Golf Event Alumni, faculty, staff, and friends are welcome to participate in fun-filled golf outing at South Shore Country Club. The fee includes a round of golf with cart, lunch at the turn, and a special Medaille College gift. Prizes will also be given for longest drive and closest to the pin contests. ($40.00 per golfer)

– 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM Sr. Ruth Haselbauer presents informative history of Medaille in the Lecture Hall, Alumni Board Officers will be installed and President Joseph Bascuas, Ph.D., will present the President’s Alumni Awards. (Free) ■

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Friday June , 

■ Campus Tours – 5:00 – 9:00 PM Student ambassadors are available to take you on an informative tour of the campus highlighting our new residence halls, Campus Center, “Smart” classrooms, science building, and lecture hall. Tours start in the Sullivan Campus Center. (Free)

■ A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N N E W S

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History of Medaille Presentation, Installation of Board Officers, and Alumni Awards Ceremony

Rediscover Medaille Reunion Dinner and Tent Party Mixer – 6:30 PM-12:00 Midnight ■ Dinner: Enjoy a wide variety of foods available

through elaborate food stations set up in the newly renovated Campus Center. (6:30 to 8:00 PM). ■ “Tent Party Medaille Mixer” where you’ll find

music, dancing, snacks beverages, late evening pizza & wings, and, of course, alumni connections. (8:00 to 12:00 AM).

■ Welcome Barbeque – 6:00 – 10:00 PM Enjoy a casual evening of food, beverages, and fun with fellow alumni, faculty, and staff in the Sullivan Campus Center. ($15.00 per person)

Dinner Only ($15.00 per person) Mixer Only ($15.00 per person) Dinner and Mixer ($25.00 per person)

Saturday June , 

Sunday June , 

■ Continental Breakfast – 9:00 – 10:00 PM To be hosted in the Sullivan Campus Center. ($5.00 per person)

■ Full Breakfast – 9:00 – 10:00 AM For alums choosing to stay overnight in the Medaille residence halls, enjoy a full breakfast in the College’s dining hall in the Sullivan Campus Center. ($7.00 per person)

■ Athletic/Recreational Activities – 2:00 – 4:00 PM Alumni are encouraged to participate in various sporting events throughout the campus. All skill levels are welcome, from the beginner to the All-American. Outdoor Volleyball, 3 on 3 Basketball, and 80s vs. 90s Street Hockey are on tap for interested alums. (Free)

ACCOMMODATIONS It’s your campus…so why not enjoy it! Overnight accommodations are available right on campus in our state-of-the-art Residence Hall. Each room contains two beds and the special All Years Reunion rate is $25 per room, which includes linens, towels, and washcloths. This fee covers up to two nights (Friday & Saturday) accommodations. A $100 deposit is required to hold the registration ($75 will be refunded after check-out).

■ Campus Tours – 2:00 – 9:00 PM Tours start in the Sullivan Campus Center. (Free)

For those of you looking for accommodations off campus, we have arranged for a special Alumni rate at the Adams Mark Hotel in downtown Buffalo (10 minutes from campus). Single/Double deluxe accommodations are $89/night and reservations can be made by calling 1-800-444-2326 and referencing the Medaille College All Years Reunion rate.

Visit www.medaille.edu/rediscover for more information, to register, and to review discount packages. 4

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June 3-5, 2005 Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gonna be big. Rediscover your expanded campus. Enrollment has grown almost 200% in 10 years! More than $27 million in capital improvements. Reconnect with professors and classmates. Be involved with the larger Medaille community â&#x20AC;&#x201C; network socially with faculty and other grads. Individual class reunions, dinners, golf, awards, tours, cocktails, sporting events, and much more For more information, contact Keith Koch â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;00, Alumni & Medaille Fund Officer, at 716.884.3281 x146 or kkoch@medaille.edu. Visit www.medaille.edu/rediscover

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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Can you remember...

■ ALUMNI NEWS - ALL YEARS REUNION

MEDAILLE THROUGH THE YEARS

■ ALUMNI PROFILE

profile

ALUMNI

Albert Erni ‘95 BA His success did not end there. Following his achievements as a Community Mortgage Officer, Erni was promoted to Executive Vice President of Citibank’s Delaware/ Hertel Branch. The branch did very well, and Erni earned a corporate reward trip to the Bahamas as part of the CitiStars program, as his branch had 8.5% growth in 2001, creating an impressive profit margin.

Albert Erni is yet another example of how Medaille College’s flexible education delivery systems allow working adults to earn the degree they need to be successful. Erni chose to pursue his degree when two good opportunities came along at the right time. First off, he was very interested in Medaille for the 2+2 =12 program. This would allow him to continue to work full time at Citibank. In addition, his employer, Citibank, was providing 100% tuition reimbursement. “When this offer came at Medaille College, I transferred some of my previous credits over and enrolled,” Erni says. “Citibank was paying for my education, and the opportunity to work full time and attend school was what I wanted. I was able to graduate in ‘95 with a degree as an evening student.” One of Erni’s best memories was the support he received from the staff at Medaille. “I had a great advisor, Ken Radik,” Erni remarks. “He helped me through the registration process. This can be very intimidating, but not at Medaille. The Financial Aid Office, the Admissions Office and the Business Department all worked together to make things easy for me.” He also remembers Medaille going through a time of change.

In his current position, Erni is a Business Banking and Commercial Loan officer for business clients up to $250,000.

“The year I graduated was the year that the Student Center was built,” Erni says. “It was really nice to graduate with a wonderful piece of architecture that will serve as the student center. It is a really nice facility and I still go back to work out in the gym.” Erni started off his career as a Teller with Citibank in ‘87, and also held a few other positions at the bank. But the bigger opportunities presented themselves once he earned his Medaille Degree. “I was able to become a Client Financial Analyst, and then I got my life insurance license to offer choice products to clients as an Investment Specialist,” Erni says. “I was then promoted to a Community Mortgage Officer, and I had immediate success, closing $5 million in loans in one year.”

“As a Business Banking Officer, I handle three branches - Citibank Buffalo Downtown, Delaware/Hertel Savings Branch as well as the Niagara Falls Branch,” Erni says. “I handle loans for benefit professionals, CPAs, attorneys, manufacturing firms, service corporations, consulting firms, and a whole multitude of different industries.” When he’s not handling large financial accounts, Erni enjoys spending time with his family. His wife, Tanya, is a Canisius College graduate and he has three children, A.J., Joshua, and Candace. He is involved with Child and Family Services, serving on the Board of Directors Financial Coalition and as Foundation President. Erni is also an avid musician who plays the bass guitar.

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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Accelerated

Learning Programs ■

N E W S from the A M H E R S T C A M P U S

Reunion The Amherst Campus Accelerated Learning Programs had their first alumni reception on Friday, February 18, 2005, hosted by College Relations at the Main Campus. Over 20 Amherst Campus graduates, President Bascuas, full-time Amherst faculty, and administration were part of the festivities.

The alumni who attended say it best. “Very nice evening with our fellow alumni, and I’m looking forward to the next alumni event. A good time was had by all, and it was great to see the faculty members and administrative staff.”

Canadian Teacher Education Program Over 250 Canadian students are participating in a 14-week student teaching experience in Ontario at over 25 school boards during the spring semester. Each student receives a seven-week experience in first, second, or third grade and an additional seven weeks in fourth, fifth, or sixth grade. Medaille has over 125 Canadian students taking classes Mondays through Thursdays at Amherst, in a 12-month program leading to an M.S. degree/certification or certification only. The passing rate on the NY State Teacher Certification Examination for our students continues to be 93% or higher.

■ A C C E L E R AT E D L E A R N I N G P R O G R A M S

– Patti Danni, ‘99 MBA

Other News ■ The first cohort of sixteen

students enrolled in the Master’s of Organizational Leadership completed in early March. The popularity of this graduate degree program is growing with a sixth cohort planned for a start in May. ■ On Thursday, March 10, 2005,

WEDG-FM (103.3 The Edge) in conjunction with the Erie-Niagara Tobacco-Free Coalition, visited the Amherst campus from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Students received hot popcorn, information on quitting smoking, and great prizes from The Edge and Gold’s Gym.

“I’m glad my class rep called me about the alumni event, otherwise I would have missed out on a great time.” – Mary Ruth Davis, ‘99 MBA

“It was a fun evening, especially meeting the other cohort members.”

Medaille College ACCEL Program Graduates…

…Enjoy their First Reunion

- Ann Horn-Jeddy, ‘99 BA, currently enrolled in Master’s of Organizational Leadership Program

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■ A C C E L E R AT E D L E A R N I N G P R O G R A M S

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U P D A T E from the R O C H E S T E R C A M P U S

Alumni Gathering a Big Success The Rochester Campus of Medaille College’s Accelerated Learning Programs held its first Alumni event on Friday, January 28, 2005. The event was held at MacGregor’s Grill & Tap Room in Henrietta. Administrative and admissions staff from Rochester were in attendance, as well as the three full-time faculty members, Mike Wallace, Dr. Cheryl Kleist, and Lori Laney. The student turnout of more than 25 was great! Almost all of the alumni that were invited attended that evening with a guest. It was nice to see the cohorts reunited and catching up on what has transpired in their lives since graduation. As well, it was a wonderful opportunity for families to meet and share their experiences over the past few years. Returning to school as an adult student, with numerous work and personal obligations, becomes a family affair. It can be very beneficial for families to have others to share the excitement and challenges faced by all involved in the process.

Other news from Rochester ■ Rochester’s 50 adjunct faculty

Medaille College Rochester ALP Graduates…

Although the event was quite informal, much networking was taking place. Some in attendance were seeking new employment, some had received promotions, and others had obtained new positions or were in the process of starting a new business. Alumni were sharing contacts and business cards throughout the evening. Comments of appreciation and excitement were shared by those who attended. Many Alumni stated that they would be interested in attending future events as well as being a part of the planning process. Two recent MBA graduates approached some of the Rochester administration in regard to teaching in the program and have since attended a faculty assessment and will be teaching soon. They stated a desire to give back some of what they gained throughout their educational experience. They will be a huge asset to the students and the college, having had first hand experience in the classroom as a student. Hopefully, this will be the first of many future Alumni events for the Rochester Campus of Medaille College’s Accelerated Programs.

Celebrate their First Alumni Reunion…

By Yvette Brindle-Decancq, Branch Campus Director, Rochester Accelerated Learning Programs

members will soon be able to utilize a new Adjunct Faculty Support Program, which is designed to foster mentoring opportunities among the faculty. ■ The College is currently running

two cohorts at Finger Lakes College, and awaiting approval from a proposal submitted to New York State to expand the program. ■ Ann Horn-Jeddy, who serves as the

Academic Services Coordinator on the Rochester campus, is a member of the first cohort of Masters of Arts and Organizational Leadership (MAOL), which started in November with an anticipated graduation date of May 2006. Ann earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Medaille’s Amherst campus in 1999. ■ The Rochester and Amherst campuses have been working together to develop a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Management.

Visiting with Former Classmates

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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Experience in the WILLIAM G. WEEKS by teaching to look at the whole system not just parts of the system.” Weeks Encourages his Students to Share Professional Experiences

■ A C C E L E R AT E D L E A R N I N G P R O G R A M S - FA C U LT Y P R O F I L E

William G. Weeks is an Assistant Professor of Business in the Amherst Accelerated Learning Program. He was hired to teach statistics when the program began in 2001, and now also teaches several Master’s in Organizational Leadership courses as well as the MBA capstone. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Canisius College, and also earned minors in Philosophy and History. He was in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Canisius, and went in to the Army as a 2nd Lieutenant. After two years in the Army, he returned to the region with his wife and daughter. There was a shortage of teaching opportunities in the area, so he spent the summer working at General Motors. As fate would have it, that summer job would eventually lead him to teaching, something he had dreamed about as a teenager. He attended the General Motors Institute (GMI) and earned his Master’s Degree in Management. During his time as a statistician at GM, he began to develop a statistical training course for engineers. Surprisingly, he was able to find mentoring in a nonacademic environment. “Dr. W. Edward Demming came to the Powertrain facility as a consultant and I actually had the chance to study for three years under him,” Weeks says. “He changed the way I looked at the world from the systems point of view and many other points of view,

In addition to statistics, Weeks taught and developed courses on organizational and leadership issues. Altogether, Weeks was instrumental in the development of more than 30 courses at GM. “I was very struck with Medaille College when I first came here,” Weeks says. “I always get a very strong sense of community when I am here, and Medaille is much like a very big family. That is very important to me because I have been a consumer of education a lot longer than I have been a teacher.” The program lost some momentum during a change in leadership in 2001, and a full-time position became available at Medaille. Weeks had already been teaching statistics part-time at Empire State College since 1986, where he also earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics, so moving from the plant to the classroom seemed like a natural transition. At that point, he retired from GM. “When I first came to Medaille in 2001, three things struck me about the college: number one was that there was a real sense of what their mission was; secondly that there was a great deal of pride in doing a good job; and the third factor was the fact that every member of the organization was an extremely important part of the success of the college,” Weeks says. “Those factors, in any organization, create a very appealing environment.” He has found the Accelerated Learning Program to be an ideal teaching situation, for many reasons. “I think

students need to be actively involved in their own education, which means they need to participate in the classroom as much as possible,” Weeks says. “Most of these students are working professionals, so every night I know I’ve got 15 to 20 organizations that we can talk about. People are very interested in joining the discussion because it is about their own organization.” Adult learners are also a pleasure to teach. He says that ALP students come prepared every night, have more interest in their education, and are more inquisitive than traditional-age undergraduates. He also appreciates the study group motif. “I think it is great, especially for people coming back to school,” Weeks comments. “They have been out of school for awhile and they are not coming back to a traditional learning environment. From a support point of view, it’s really important, especially in the beginning.” Like many professors at Medaille, Weeks uses his own professional experiences to bolster his teaching. “I try and use examples of initiatives I’ve found to be successful, both from places I’ve worked and from other organizations I’ve consulted with,” Weeks says. “But I prefer to relate my teaching to my students’ organizations - my professional career in industry is over with, theirs are just starting.” Weeks lives in South Buffalo with his wife Mary Ellen. They will enjoy their 25th wedding anniversary this July, and are celebrating by taking a trip to Ireland in October. He also has two children, Matthew and Kristin.

■ FACULTY PROFILE

Classroom

MEDAILLE F A C U LT Y PROFILE

DR. WALT A. KOLT Walter A. Kolt, an Instructor in the Business Department at Medaille College, has many of the attributes that make up an ideal business teacher. He is well versed in academia, with teaching experience ranging from electronics to chemistry. He holds a Masters of Business Administration and is also a successful businessman and entrepreneur. “I have theory and practice,” Kolt says while explaining his teaching tactics. “Rather than simply teaching students the concepts behind running a successful business, I can share my experiences and other analogies that students might relate to.” Kolt teaches a variety of graduate and undergraduate level courses at Medaille. In the graduate program, he teaches the Strategic Management Core along with Economics and Mathematics. He is also an instructor for the undergraduate Writing for Business course. Kolt started teaching in 1986 at Empire State College, joined the Medaille faculty as a part-time instructor in 1999, and became a full-time member in 2001.

of the inner city, and you may have kids that took a more traditional approach to learning the game,” Kolt says. “You have a lot of talent and the trick is getting the most out of each individual. Students are students and while there may be differences in learning styles, as long as there is a will to learn, students will learn.” Kolt considers himself a true Western New Yorker. One of the most rewarding parts of his job is knowing that by helping to educate the business leaders of tomorrow, he is contributing to a successful future for the region. He believes that as the economic environment of the City changes, it will be up to the businessmen and women to make Buffalo a fiscally sound city. As a business owner and entrepreneur, Walter is a model of success. He started Ceiling Track in 1999 and generated first-year revenues of $18,000. His projected revenues for 2005 are over $2 million. Ceiling Track is a distribution and installation company that provides handicapped and elderly people with functional mobility by using a harness system installed in nursing homes,

He likes to compare his classroom to a collegiate basketball team. “Coming into the room, you have kids that learned to play on the playgrounds

Kolt is Comfortable in the Board Room…

rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and private residences. It operates very much like an upside down train. The track is installed on the ceiling of the home or business and a harness is suspended from the track. The harness then acts as an assistant to the individuals as they perform ordinary tasks. Kolt identified this growing industry in Europe and Canada and, recognizing the domestic population growth among seniors, brought it to the United States. “When coming up with ideas for a business, my wife and I both wanted to do something that we would enjoy and find rewarding,” Kolt says. “Ceiling Track is successful. I enjoy the engineering work and we are proud to be able to help people.” Working as a full-time instructor and founder of a multi-million dollar corporation sounds impossible. Walter says that to him, neither job is really work. “It’s very common for me to work seven days a week and enjoy it,” he says. “My teaching helps me better manage my business and my business helps me be a better teacher.” Walter Kolt has had good fortune in business and in teaching. And Medaille students are very fortunate to learn from someone who brings real-world experience and a wealth of knowledge to the classroom everyday.

“I have theory and practice,” Kolt says while explaining his teaching tactics.“Rather than simply teaching students the concepts behind running a successful business, I can share my experiences and other analogies that students might relate to.” As Well as the Classroom

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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NEWSANDNOTES The Medaille Perspective Medaille College has long been home to The Perspective, a newspaper written for students, by students. After not publishing last year, the paper came back to life under new leadership in 2004-05. The paper changed identity as it shifted its name to The Medaille Perspective and adopted a new logo. Rebecca Stone, Media Communications, ’06, is the Editor-in-Chief of the paper, which is distributed once a month during the academic year. There are four staff writers who contribute regularly to the publication, but the bulk of the paper comes through student and instructor submissions. Sports, current events, and political issues are just some of the regular topics covered in The Medaille Perspective. Students also submit cartoons, editorials, and other articles on a variety of newsworthy items.

The Medaille Perspective the opportunity to accept advertising while putting journalism first.

Medaille Newspaper – A New Perspective

“We’ve emphasized all year that it is important to write about things other than Medaille in order to help people expand in their journalism writing,” says Stone. “All students are encouraged to write on a wide array of topics from local issues to global affairs.” The Medaille College Student Government Association (SGA) is the governing and funding body for the school paper. This gives the paper freedom to operate without concerns over selling advertising space, circulation, or controversial content. The addition of a new lay-out program and a regular printing schedule has provided

The “LIZZARD” WMCB “The Lizzard,” is the name of the locally broadcast, student-run radio station at Medaille College. The studio of “The Lizzard” went through a complete make-over during 2004-05. It was repainted, outfitted with new equipment and a new sign, and the staff was bolstered with new on-air personalities.

■ NEWS and NOTES

Radio Station Receives a New Look

“The support we get from SGA gives us an opportunity to explore some real journalism and sets us apart from other local schools where advertisements eat so much space in an eight-page paper,” explains Stone. Student response to the return of the paper has been positive. “It’s great to be able to see how far the paper has come in terms of its coverage of school news,” said Jeff Pierce, ’05, Liberal Arts. “I make sure to read the sports section of every issue.” Jonathan Gill, Director of Editorial Services, and Vince Clark, Senior Director of Foundation, Government and Corporate Relations, are the Staff Co-Advisors for the paper. Submissions can be sent to perspective@medaille.edu.

M E D A I L L E C O L L E G E R A D I O S TAT I O N

Funding for the changes came from the Media Communications Department’s budget. A new mixing board, computer, audio editing program, and microphones were just some of the technological updates to the station. It was also repainted and redecorated by students. “Currently, 25-30 students are involved in the radio station, be it on the air, or in the background,” Lisa Van Valkinburgh, Media Communications Department Chair and radio station Co-Advisor, says. “That marks a vast improvement over the seven students that were involved just a few years ago.”

In addition to providing an array of entertainment options, the student management team of the station believes in giving back to the Buffalo community. They provide airtime for public service announcements, donate to the Buffalo City Mission and American Red Cross, and work with the Gear-Up Grant, a program that brings middle and high school students into the studio for a day and lets them experience a real radio broadcast first-hand. The station plans to complete the makeover with new furniture in the lounge and exploring broadcasting opportunities such as Web-casting or acquiring a low frequency AM band to enhance the size of the possible listening audience.

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■ NEWS and NOTES

Serving our Nation

Troy Schneider, Medaille College Director of Advancement Services, is currently in the midst of a projected 12-month tour of duty in Iraq with his National Guard Unit. Medaille College salutes all members of our Armed Forces and wishes our servicemen and women overseas safe tours of duty.

Library Receives Magnificent Collection On Friday, April 1st, 2005 the Medaille College Library hosted a reception to honor educator, writer and actor Loren Keller for donating an outstanding collection of more than 1,000 art and literature books to the Medaille College Library. He is the father of Barbara Yendall, Curriculum Program Coordinator at Medaille’s Amherst ACCELerated Learning Program. Keller was born in Lancaster, New York, in 1930, and has always lived in the Buffalo area. After serving three years as an Infantry Lieutenant in the Korean War, he graduated from Buffalo State College, where he won prizes for his poetry and essays and began to build his book collection.

and as a Department Chair, in the Ken-Ton Public School District. He was awarded a Ford Foundation Fellowship to the University of California at Berkeley in 1964. Keller has published four books of poetry: No Songs But Whispers, The Skier and the Snow, Warm Brooms, and As I Might Hold a Bird; and a novel, Four and Twenty Bluebeards. All are available in the Medaille College Library.

He continued his education at Cornell, Canisius, SUNY Buffalo, and California, and served for 31 years as a teacher of Literature, English, and Humanities, Loren Keller Reception

Since the 1980’s, Keller has been the Playwright-in-Residence at Buffalo Ensemble Theatre, where five of his plays were produced. The first, 1986’s What Dreams May Come, was performed in New York City ten years before Robin Williams used the same title. The play was based on Keller’s ten years of experiences as a volunteer phone counselor at the former Suicide Prevention Center, now Crisis Services. As an actor he has appeared in many productions spanning five decades, including The Elephant Man, The Dresser, The Runner Stumbles, Of Mice and Men and The Night of the Iguana. He received a local Best Actor Award for his performance in On Golden Pond. Loren Keller is very happy to be able to donate parts of his great book collection to the Medaille College Library, where he is sure these art books and poetry books will be used and appreciated.

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

ATHLETICS Softball The Lady Mavs Softball team started the 2005 season by heading south in an effort to find dry fields and competition. The team found good weather and opponents in Florida, spending a week in March in Fort Myers. The team returned home from Florida with a 3-5 record, but better off for the experience gained. This experience helped the Lady Mavs early in their first season in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference, as they jumped out to a 5-1 conference record. A tough week in March against Penn State-Behrend and LaRoche College evened out the Lady Mavs conference record at 5-5. However, the team was not to be denied and they proceeded to

put together an 8-game winning streak that put them in the AMCC Playoffs with a 13-5 conference record. Unfortunately, the team suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 loss in the playoffs to Penn State-Behrend. Overall, the team finished with an 18-17 record and the bright spots were many. Medaille had a school-record six players receive post-season honors. First

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team All-Northeast Region and third team All-America selection Amanda Baker is the 2005 Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference Softball Newcomer and Player of the Year. The Medaille College freshman catcher topped every offensive category for the Lady Mavs and finished with strong national rankings, including #2 in the nation in slugging percentage (.947), #3 in the nation in homeruns per game (0.31, 11 total), #9 in the nation in runs per game (1.29, 45 total), and 6th in the nation in RBI’s per game (1.29, 45 total). Defensively Baker had a .994 fielding percentage. Joining her on the AMCC First Team is Senior Mary Helak. Sophomore Michelle Peruzzini and Junior Maggie Wilcox were both selected to the All-Conference Second Team, and Juniors Kristy Bonetto and Sara Vertalino both earned Honorable Mention for the All-AMCC Team.

2nd AnnualPete Lonergan Basketball Summer Camp for Girls Pete Lonergan, Head Coach of Women’s Basketball at Medaille College and renowned basketball guru in Western New York, is excited to announce the 2nd Annual Pete Lonergan Basketball Summer Camp for Girls, July 5-8 and 11-14, 2005.

■ AT H L E T I C N EWS

The camp runs daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for girls aged 8-16. It is designed to provide an enjoyable and challenging learning environment through personalized instruction, lectures, contests, mini-clinics, and stations dedicated to fundamentals of the game. Coach Lonergan’s basketball expertise stems back to the 1980s when he served as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Athletic Director for Niagara University. At least eight of his former players and assistants have gone on to coaching positions

In addition to girl’s basketball, Medaille College is planning to offer camps in several sports this summer including girl’s volleyball (August 1-6, 2005), boy’s basketball (July 25-29) and more. Visit www.Medaille.edu for more information on all Medaille sport camps.

at the college level, a testament to his teaching ability. Most recently, Lonergan was honored as the Coach of the Year in the Alleghany Mountain Collegiate Conference after his success with the women’s basketball team. The team rocketed a 19-5 (14-4) regular season

record and a trip to the conference tournament final four. Their success in their conference also landed them a bid in the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) Invitational Tournament. For additional information about the summer camp or to have any questions answered, please contact (716) 634-2388.

■ NEWS and NOTES

Mavericks back on National Stage The Medaille College Men’s Volleyball Team returned to the Molten Invitational National Tournament, on April 15 and 16, 2005, hosted by Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, for the second year in a row under the leadership of Head Coach Keith Koch. A four-team tournament, the Molten Invitational is the only opportunity for NCAA Division III volleyball programs to claim a national title. The Mavericks earned the birth to the tournament by virtue of a second-place finish in the North East Collegiate Volleyball Association Conference Tournament (NECVA). Medaille entered the four team tournament as the 4th seed, facing defending champions and top-seeded Juniata College in the first round. The Mavs were never able to assert their style of play against the impressive size and ability of Juniata and lost in three games. Medaille came up short against 3rd seeded Stevens Tech in the consolation match. Nonetheless, the season was another major success story for the Medaille Mavericks. The team finished with a 19-10 record overall (6-0 in conference), took second place in the NECVA tournament, and won the regular season crown in the Western Division of the NECVA. Among the team’s seven regular season losses, four were at the hands of NCAA Division II teams. “Last year’s success came as a surprise to everyone but ourselves,” Junior Captain Erik Hartman says. “This year everyone knew we were coming and they would put together their best game to play us.”

Sophomore Captain and Second Team All-American Jake Beiter, led the team in many categories including kills (291), kills per game (3.88), attempts (577), aces (38), aces per game (0.51), digs (162), and digs per game (2.16). Freshman setter Drew Lewandowski was named to the Molten Invitation National Tournament All-Tournament Team. Sophomores Brett Wood and Mark Steinel, as well as Hartman, also made notable contributions throughout the season. “Returning to Nationals adds legitimacy to what otherwise might have been considered a fluke year,” Hartman said in regards to last year’s performance. “Losing both games [at Nationals] is a tough way to end the season, but it really makes the players want to improve in the off-season.”

“Last year’s success came as a surprise to everyone but ourselves,” Junior Captain Erik Hartman says. “This year everyone knew we were coming and they would put together their best game to play us.”

Coach Koch maintains high expectations for next season, as the team did not graduate any seniors. All the players from this year’s nationally competitive team will return to make another run next season. “It was another successful season for the Men’s Volleyball team, but we can’t be satisfied until we’re national champions,” Koch says. “In the offseason, the team will dedicate itself to improving in order to meet our own lofty expectations.”

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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CAMPUS KUDOS

CAMPUSKUDOS Stephanie Argentine, Business Department Chairperson, has been named to the Board of Directors of the International Assembly of Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). IACBE is an international organization that accredits business programs in colleges around the world. She has also been asked to serve as a site-visit evaluator for the accreditation visits for two SUNY colleges this summer. Dr. Virginia Batchelor, Assistant Professor, Education, has been selected to participate in the National Association of African Studies Academic Scholar’s Program 2005 Teaching Opportunity in China, May 20 - June 6, 2005.

Dr. Terri K. Borchers, Assistant Professor, Humanities, has been invited to visit the Navaho Nation, an American Indian reservation in Tuba City, AZ, from April 16-23, 2005. Borchers will read and share poetry, tutor American Indian students in writing and reading, and share learning experiences with students and their families throughout the week. Medaille College has provided faculty development funding for this event.

Dr. Luis Borges, Assistant Professor, Business, presented a paper at the QIK (Quality, Innovation, and Knowledge Management) International Conference in Malaysia in February. Borges will also present a paper at the upcoming Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management (IEEM) International Conference in Shenyang, China, in April. He also received approval to present at the 2005 European Operations Management Association (EUROMA) Conference in Budapest, Hungary, in June.

■ CAMPUS KUDOS

Dr. Craig Centrie, Assistant Professor, Education, will be presenting his accepted paper, “The Cultural Adaptation of Vietnamese Women,” at the 9th Annual United Nations NGO Global Conference on Women in South Korea. Dr. Suzanne D’Amato, Assistant Professor, Education, has been appointed to serve as Medaille College’s Representative in the Western New York Service Learning Coalition. Dr. Gerald J. Erion, Assistant Professor, Humanities, and Director of the Medaille College Scholars Program, has made several recent conference presentations, including “Marriage and Sexuality” (session chair) and “Fundamentals of Common-Sense Ethics” at the 32nd Conference on Value Inquiry at Louisiana State University on April 8, 2005. Erion also presented “Philosophical Analysis and Analytical Pedagogy” at the

Northwest Philosophy Conference at Bellevue College in October, 2004, and will be presenting at a conference at the University of Leeds (United Kingdom) in July. Dr. Sharon Kulhanek, Professor, Education, and Marcia Swiatek, Guest Lecturer, Education, have been appointed to the National Planning Committee for the Association of Teacher Educators National Conference in Atlanta in 2006. Dr. Michael P. Lillis, Associate Professor, Business, will present two papers at the Academy of Management/International Academy of Management 22nd Annual Conference in Virginia Beach in August, 2005. The papers are entitled “Decision-Making, Thinking Practices, and Organizational Culture: A Behavioral Approach” and “Utilization of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners: Antecedents to Job Satisfaction and Good Patient Care Outcomes.”

Seana Logsdon, Assistant Professor and Chairperson, General Education, recently presented at the National Freshmen Year Experience Conference in Phoenix, AZ. The title of her presentation was “Old Habits Are Hard to Break: Making the Case for Active Learning to First-Year College Students.” The presentation focused on an interdisciplinary model of a first-year experience course, and close to 100 colleges and universities asked for more information about the model.

Starcherone Books News Starcherone Books, founded by Dr. Ted Pelton, Associate Professor, Humanities, released two new titles this Spring: Kenneth Bernard’s The Man in the Stretcher: Previously Uncollected Stories and Raymond Federman’s My Body in Nine Parts. Starcherone received $1,500 from the New York State Literary Publisher’s Capacity Fund to support marketing and publicity expenses for the Bernard and Federman books. Starcherone Books, a non-for-profit press, depends on contributions as well as sales to continue to publish works of innovative, non-commercial fiction. As such, the press recently started its first annual fundraising campaign. So far, one-third of the goal of $5000 in private contributions has been raised, including a $1000 donation from benefactor Abraham Krasnoff. Information about these and other Starcherone titles is available on Starcherone Books’ website, http://www.starcherone.com.

Ethan Paquin, MFA, Assistant Professor, Humanities, is one of a selection of poets to have work included in the upcoming anthology Legitimate Dangers: American Poets of the New Century, edited by Michael Dumanis and Cate Marvin, and forthcoming in late 2005 from Sarabande Books. Paquin also will see his poems published in upcoming editions of journals including The Colorado Review, The Cincinnati Review, Fence and CrossCultural Poetics. Paquin’s third book, The Violence, is due in September 2005 from Ahsahta Press, a well-known Boise State University-based contemporary poetry publisher. Dr. Ted Pelton, Associate Professor, Humanities, has a review of Marilynne Robinson’s novel, Gilead, in the current online issue of Rain Taxi (http://www.raintaxi.org). The review was originally an entry on a blog that Pelton keeps on contemporary fiction - this and other entries can be found at http://www.starcherone.com/blog.htm. Pelton’s experimental story, “Sleep,” appears in the current issue of the online magazine, Potionmag (http://www.potionmag.org). The story was created by selecting every sentence that contained the word “sleep” from two of Pelton’s fiction books, and then alphabetizing the sentences.

Kenneth J. Radig, Associate Professor, Business, was recently named an Editorial Runner- Up in “The Best of the Great Ideas in Teaching Marketing Contest” held by Thompson/ Southwestern Publishers. The contest was held in conjunction with the publication of Marketing, 8th edition, by Charles Lamb, Joseph Hair, and Carl McDonald. The marketing assignment under consideration was published as part of a supplemental handbook for instructors, previously published in an earlier edition of Great Ideas in Teaching Marketing. Dr. Joseph E. Savarese, Professor, Veterinary Technology, and Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, received the Outstanding Service to Veterinary Medicine Award from the Western New York Veterinary Medical Society. The award was presented “In Recognition and Appreciation for Your Continuous Years of Dedicated Service to Veterinary Medicine as President and Advisor.” Savarese was also the keynote speaker in March at a Continuing Education Seminar for 140 Veterinary Technicians in Davie, Florida, sponsored by the Veterinary Specialists of Southeast Florida. Dr. Robert Guang Tian, who will be joining the Business Department as an Associate Professor in the Fall, recently published an article entitled “From Theory to Practice: Anthropology in Business Education,” in the Spring 2005 issue of the High Plains Applied Anthropologist.

â&#x2013; FROM THE ARCHIVES

MEDAILLEarchives MEDAILLE

Article from the Courier-Express, Buffalo, NY July 4, 1976 VIBs Very Interesting Buffalonians Introducing the young-looking, youngthinking President of Medaille College, Dr. Robert R. Hesse

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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By Dr. Thomas E. Scheye

path to excellence MEDAILLE COLLEGE’S STRATEGIC PLAN IS MEANT TO CHART A COURSE FOR THE COLLEGE, BEGINNING WITH MISSION AND ENDING WITH RESOURCES. THE STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE, WITH SIGNIFICANT INPUT FROM THE FACULTY, COMPLETED THE PLAN IN EARLY 2005 and RECENTLY UNVEILED THE FINAL VERSION TO THE MEDAILLE COMMUNITY.

Medaille College’s strategic plan is meant to chart a course for the College, beginning with mission and ending with resources. The Strategic Planning Committee, with significant input from the faculty, completed the plan in early 2005 and recently unveiled the final version to the Medaille community.

other institutions and what difference that makes, or could make, in the lives of our students. Discussion of the College’s mission by the entire Medaille community, including the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and administration, has provided valuable guidance to the process of Medaille’s self-definition and to the resulting revision of the mission statement. To date, the discussion has yielded three critical conclusions.

If the plan is to be truly strategic, it will bring our mission to life and help turn it to our advantage in four distinct areas: ■ Enrollment: shaping our environment;

First, it is clear that Medaille should remain committed to its historic mission, serving students who need an opportunity, but just as committed to reinventing itself so as to offer all of its students an education that is both engaging and demanding. For Medaille then, the choice between being a traditional and a non-traditional institution is not either/or, but both/and.

■ Educational purpose: focusing on our strengths; ■ Brand: capitalizing on our identity; and

■ T H E S T R AT E G I C P L A N F O R M E D A I L L E C O L L E G E

■ Institutional innovation and learning: building

community around commitment to change. Our mission should define who we are and what we do as a College and academic community, taking into account our history and traditions as well as our vision for the future. If our mission is to be truly strategic, it should also define what makes us different from

To remain true to its mission and make itself new at the same time, the College should be committed to offering an eclectic mix of academic programs that employ varying degrees of selectivity.

MEDAILLE MISSION STATEMENT Medaille College concentrates on excellence in teaching, with an emphasis on personal attention to its diverse student body. Its curriculum provides a solid liberal arts and sciences foundation with early access to career-oriented education. ■ ■ ■ The faculty and all of those involved in the mission of education challenge students and themselves to the highest possible standards of achievement, but that challenge is balanced by support for every individual student and a concern that each one succeeds.

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In the day undergraduate program, the commitment should be to make the transition from a local to a regional student body. By expanding the recruiting area, it should be possible to increase selectivity and, thus, improve academically according to traditional measures of academic quality, such as SAT’s, high school average, and class rank. In the evening program, by contrast, there should be a more open admissions policy and a commitment to the kind of support services that returning students and other non-traditional populations might require. Second, Medaille’s continuing commitment to the liberal arts means that every student (certainly every undergraduate) should receive a liberal education, regardless of their major, in order to attain those core competencies that have been identified as the heart of the College’s mission.

Consciousness of diversity: awareness and sensitivity of the richness of human possibility.

Humility: appreciation and respect for fellow human beings and the natural environment. ■

At the undergraduate level, faculty should instill a high degree of rigor and recall as they are preparing students not only for their “first job” but for a career as well, and very possibly a very different The common thread career than the one they imagine at the is the commitment of moment.

everyone at Medaille to challenge and support every student so they can succeed to the best of their abilities.

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Comprehensive Education: fundamental rather than limited in application or purpose, embracing career skills, core values, and life goals.

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Critical Thinking: intellectual discernment and an active faculty of judgment.

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Communication: the ability to write effectively and speak articulately.

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Citizenship: awareness of democratic traditions and the responsibilities they entail.

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Engagement: involvement with the world, locally and globally; compassionate interaction with others, unselfish recognition of values larger than oneself.

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Employability: short-term through exposure to local opportunities, long-term through acquisition of adaptable skills and professional versatility.

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Analytical skill: foundations in math and logic.

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Technological aptitude: knowledge of the current, flexibility in preparation for the future.

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excellence

■ T H E S T R AT E G I C P L A N F O R M E D A I L L E C O L L E G E

Cultural literacy: grounding in the traditions of human intellectual and artistic achievement.

At the graduate level, it is even clearer that, in the main, the programs the College offers should be addressed to the needs of students interested in professional careers, either full-time professionals seeking additional skills or traditional-age graduate students seeking to enter a profession.

Given that Medaille’s definition of excellence has been historically weighted more toward outcomes than inputs, it should be clear how important a role outcomes assessment plays in this strategic plan. It is not enough to measure how well our programs appear to prepare students for the marketplace; we should also assess whether the students have acquired those competencies that have been identified as essential components of the College’s mission.

The Path to Excellence marks another significant stage in the evolution of Medaille. The plan calls for the College to grow in size and stature as well as in complexity, embracing diversity in programs to better meet the needs of a diverse student body. Within this diversity, however, there is unity. The common thread is the commitment of everyone at Medaille to challenge and support every student so they can succeed to the best of their abilities. Dr. Thomas Scheye is a Distinguished Service Professor at Loyola

College in Maryland. He has acted as a higher education consultant for more than 15 years, specializing in strategic planning, academic affairs, and board development. He is currently assisting Medaille College by facilitating the strategic planning process.

It’s your school. Your faculty. Your computers. Your classrooms, dorms and teams.

As we grow, so does the need for your support. Medaille College is one of the fastest growing colleges in Buffalo/Niagara. By contributing to the Medaille College Fund, you are making an investment not only in the future of the College, but also in the future of our community. Your support allows Medaille the flexibility necessary to compete in a rapidly changing higher education marketplace and to adapt to the ever-changing needs of students. It also demonstrates the loyalty and commitment of our graduates, a very important factor considered by foundations and government agencies when awarding grant money. Please make a donation today by filling in the coupon below, and mailing or faxing (716-332-2978) to: College Relations, 18 Agassiz Circle, Buffalo, NY 14214. Or, use the envelope inserted in this magazine. For more information please contact Keith Koch ‘00, at 716-884-3281 or e-mail to: kkoch@medaille.edu.

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THE MEDAILLE COLLEGE FUND

GIFT LEVELS TRUSTEE $10,000 TOWER CLUB $5,000

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FOUNDERS CLUB $2,500 MEDAILLE ASSOCIATES $1,000

QUADRANGLE CLUB $500 AGASSIZ CIRCLE CLUB $250

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Donors of $1,000+ earn membership in the President’s Circle.

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â&#x2013; F E AT U R E A R T I C L E M E D A I L L E A S S E T S

Medaille Graduates ASSETS in the FINANCIAL MARKET Medaille graduates from First Niagara left to right: Margaret Domagalski, Agron Elmazi, Russ Gentner, Tina Smith and Debra Valenti

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

Medaille Graduates at First Niagara First Niagara Bank is the wholly owned subsidiary of First Niagara Financial Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: FNFG) and has assets of $8.0 billion and deposits of $5.1 billion. First Niagara Bank is a full-service, community-oriented bank that provides financial services to individuals, families and businesses through 115 branches, a loan production office, several financial services subsidiaries and 158 ATMs throughout New York State. The company specializes in personal and commercial banking, investments and insurance. For more information about First Niagara, visit their website at www.fnfg.com.

the opportunity to take the tools you learned in the classroom out into a real working environment. It puts your skills to the test and helps you understand what your strengths and weaknesses are.

Medaille Grads at First Niagara

What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “When I was a senior, a group of us got together and asked why there was no baseball team. They said if we got a group of guys together, they would support a team. So we did and the school supported us in every way possible. A lot of the long-lasting friendships I have today are from that team.”

Russ Gentner ‘82 MC Vice President, Commercial Lending, First Niagara Bank

“I had the intentions of going into PR and marketing, but what I found out is that banks are looking for people who can sell. In commercial lending, that’s what I do. My Medaille background was directly fitted for what banks are looking for - even though when I was in school I never thought I would be a banker.”

RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Initiate and maintain

■ MEDAILLE ASSETS

commercial real estate relationships in Western New York.

Why did you choose Medaille? “At the time, I was considering a number of local schools. After spending one afternoon at Medaille meeting the admissions staff and the teachers, by the time I left I was enrolled. What really impressed me were the class sizes. I was used to a small student-to-teacher ratio and I was really impressed by the way things were set up at Medaille.” How did Medaille help your career? “The most significant thing that helped my career were the internships. They were fantastic because you were given

Agron Elmazi ‘00 FS Relationship Banker IV, First Niagara Bank, Depew Branch RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Build and maintain positive relationships with customers by selling and servicing bank products. Why did you choose Medaille? “I recently chose to go back to Medaille for my MBA. My positive experiences for four years were certainly a factor, as was the outstanding faculty.” How did Medaille help your career? “My degree was in financial services

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which is a perfect fit for banking. There is a lot of terminology and language in financial services that is custom to banking, so I had a good knowledge base going in. “I did an internship with an investment advisory firm that eventually became part of First Niagara which was helpful when I applied for a permanent position.” What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “Seeing my old friends and professors when I go back to campus is always great.”

Margaret J. Domagalski ‘98 HR Senior Organizational and Employee Development Specialist, First Niagara Bank RESPONSIBILITIES include:

Develop, design, and facilitate corporate training programs. Why did you choose Medaille? “The 2+2=12 program really made the decision for me. I liked the small classes and was able to complete my degree in two years. I didn’t even look at other schools because once I heard about the evening program, I was hooked.” How did Medaille help your career? “I had my Associate’s Degree and was already working as a corporate trainer. Medaille reinforced the skills that I was using and helped me gain additional knowledge with a Bachelor’s Degree. It is through networking at Medaille that I am now at First Niagara.” What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “The friendships I developed at Medaille. We still keep in touch by phone/email and get together several times a year.”

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■ MEDAILLE ASSETS

Tina Smith ‘01 MC Marketing Coordinator, First Niagara Bank RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Responsible for providing support to marketing segment managers in the development of campaigns and promotions that support First Niagara’s strategic and financial goals. Why did you choose Medaille? “I was visiting three colleges one day. Medaille was my second visit and I left there knowing where I was going to school. I loved the class sizes and everybody was so personable - they said hi when you walked down the hallway.” How did Medaille help your career? “I wanted to be involved in marketing and my degree helped position me as a strong candidate when an opportunity to move into marketing at First Niagara came up. What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “I liked participating in things and Medaille’s size gave me an opportunity to be very involved. I got to play sports that I hadn’t played before and didn’t think I would play at the college level. We started a lacrosse team with a bunch of girls who had never played lacrosse before.”

Debra Valenti ‘98 HR Assistant Vice President, Organizational and Employee Development, First Niagara Bank RESPONSIBILITIES include:

Aligning enterprise learning and development initiatives with First Niagara’s business goals and strategic plans.

Why did you choose Medaille? “One of the key factors in choosing Medaille was that I could earn my degree in a shorter period of time. With the 2+2=12 program, I was able to complete school at night in four years, while still working full-time, something I couldn’t have done at other colleges. “They were also one of the few schools offering a specific human resources major. Since I was already in a human resources position, it was easy to relate what I was learning in class immediately to a real world environment. I had the unique opportunity to complete my internship right in my own job.” How did Medaille help your career? “My degree coupled with my experience allowed me to move ahead in my career at First Niagara and handle a much wider scope of responsibilities in a fast growing organization.”

“The more I take time to think about Medaille, the more I appreciate how the school prepared me for my career.” – RUSS GENTNER ‘82 MC

What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “I was involved in many things at Medaille, including serving as Evening Student Council President. I wanted to be involved to give something back to Medaille and other non-traditional students because of my own experience there. “One of the things that makes Medaille unique is the camaraderie you develop with your classmates, and the support your fellow students give you. You’re all working and just trying to get it done. I still maintain many of those friendships today.”

Medaille Graduates at KeyBank KeyBank is a unit of KeyCorp, the nation’s 13th largest bank-based financial services company, with assets of $91 billion. Locally, 1,000 employees provide financial services via Key’s network of 41 branches and 50 ATMs. Key is committed to helping area residents achieve economic self-sufficiency and the WNY community sustain business growth and prosperity through charitable contributions and employee volunteerism, including service on local boards and committees throughout the region. Capabilities include investment management, retail and commercial banking, consumer finance, and investment banking. Key operates the nation’s 3rd largest bank-owned leasing company and is the 5th largest

commercial real estate lender, the 5th largest holder of federal education loans and provider of private education loan, and the 6th largest bank-affiliated equipment financing company. Key values diversity and is one of DiversityInc Magazine’s top 50 Companies for Diversity in 2005.

Marie Hare ‘81 AS Vice President for Community Affairs, Key Bank RESPONSIBILITIES include:

Managing community relations, philanthropic giving and college scholarships in the Western New York area.

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

Why did you choose Medaille? “I was attracted to the 2+2=12 program because I was able to go to school and work. Being able to both at the same time really helped me get where I wanted to go, in the least amount of time.”

“I have seen Medaille grow since graduation. More and more people seem to be noticing what is going on there. There is so much to be proud of.” – MARIE HARE ‘81 AS

How did Medaille help your career? “Even though we were working full time, that didn’t mean that our teachers were going to cut us any slack. You couldn’t tell your boss in the morning that you were too tired from classes, and you couldn’t skip class because you worked all day - everybody worked all day. That taught me a lot about how to be a good time manager. “I also really liked the career component at Medaille. During my studies, I spent time with my advisor looking at what I was going to do with my career and the rest of my life, as well as setting goals for myself. I hadn’t really thought about that until I went to Medaille.” What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “There was such a diverse group of people - kind of like a melting pot of people. It made for a good mix and I was able to learn from other people’s experiences. We were all there for the same reason, to earn our degrees.”

How did Medaille help your career? “The quality of education I received at Medaille was on par with the other schools I have attended including Alfred University and the University of Buffalo, where I received my Master’s degree in 1997. Medaille provided the setting that allowed me to succeed, not only in school but also at Key Bank.” What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “Most importantly, I remember how good of a fit the evening classes were with my schedule. It was totally worker-friendly and allowed me to earn my degree while working.”

LuAnn Malkiewicz ‘88 LS Teller, Key Bank RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Customer relations and transactions.

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What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “It was wonderful - the professors were great, so thoughtful and helpful. I loved the collage of different people plus I wasn’t the oldest one! I like being around people and we spent a lot of time studying together and having coffee breaks. My classmates and professors were wonderful.”

Sharon Brewer ‘90 BA Loan Closing Professional RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Processing loan applications. Why did you choose Medaille? “I liked Medaille because it was small and I could get one-on-one attention from my counselors and teachers. That special attention, plus the opportunity to move to graduation quickly, are the main reasons I chose Medaille.” How did Medaille help your career? “I really enjoyed the variety of people. I went to school with someone in the pharmaceutical industry, someone from the Department of Motor Vehicles, from Ford and GM. Just listening to their experiences from these different industries was something you just can’t get at other colleges.”

Michael R. Mingus ‘89 LS Senior Tech Ops Specialist, Key Technology Services, Enterprise Technology Operations, Mainframe Services

■ MEDAILLE ASSETS

RESPONSIBILITIES include:

Administering Key Bank’s corporate archives, which house the bank’s reports and images, including checks and statements. Why did you choose Medaille? “Medaille’s flexible schedule allowed me to acquire my bachelor’s degree while working full-time.”

Why did you choose Medaille? “I was working at the Federal Reserve Bank for 13 years, and I needed to find classes I could take in the evening. Medaille was a perfect fit for me in many ways.” How did Medaille help your career? “It was very stimulating for me. I had never earned my degree and just wanted to get it. Soon, however, I found myself trying for all A’s. It helped me focus on doing the best job I could, and the diploma helped me get my job at Key Bank.”

What is your fondest memory of Medaille? “I took a lot of courses from the American Banking Institute, and earned my Associate’s Degree from ECC. A lot of those credits were transferable, so I decided to finish out my Bachelor’s Degree at Medaille. I mostly remember what a good fit Medaille was in almost every way.”

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â&#x2013; MEDAILLE ASSETS

Medaille graduates from M&T Bank left to right: Maryann Grabowski, Renee Laudisio, Mark Hjalmarson, Kim Slowinski, Roxanne Rivera-Sikorski and Michelle Mayo

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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Medaille Graduates at M&T Bank M&T Bank is considered one of the country’s most highly regarded regional banks. The company was founded over 140 years ago in Western New York, where it still maintains its corporate headquarters. The parent company, M&T Bank Corporation, had over $52 billion in assets as of December 31, 2004, and is one of the 20 largest bank holding companies in the U.S. Customers are able to bank at over 650 branches throughout Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington D.C. Customers have access to a sizable ATM network of more than 1,500 locations as well as state-of-the-art telephone and Web Banking. M&T Bank is recognized for its financial strength and sound management. This strength, along with an entrepreneurial philosophy, has made it possible for M&T to pursue a course of well-managed growth.

Why did you choose Medaille? “I went to college at 25. As an adult learner, it was difficult to find a program that was a good fit. Especially with kids, full-time work, and what not. the 2+2=12 program because I could take a full time curriculum at night and be eligible for financial aid.” How has Medaille helped your career? “Medaille helped to prepare me and advance my career by giving me a solid foundation in computer information systems,” Hjalmarson says. “The entry ticket to a lot of positions is a bachelor’s degree, and Medaille helped fill that void for me.”

How has Medaille helped your career? “Medaille helped me see a business from many different perspectives and how they made decisions about things such as marketing, human resources, mergers and acquisitions. It really helped me when I lost my previous job because it gave me confidence going into interviews.” What are your fondest memories of Medaille? “My best memories of Medaille are the study groups. You really got to know the people in your group. We had a lot of laughs, supported each other, and it really helped you get a perspective from many different companies.”

What are your fondest memories of Medaille? “My best memories of Medaille are working closely with my cohort, people in my situation - adult learners with families. We bonded pretty well and I still keep in contact with some of them.”

Roxanne RiveraSikorski ‘98 BA CPI System Administrator, M&T Mortgage Corporation

Renee Laudisio ‘01 BA

RESPONSIBILITIES

Administrative Assistant, M&T Mortgage Corporation

include:

Medaille grads at M&T Bank -

■ F E AT U R E A R T I C L E M E D A I L L E A S S E T S

Mark Hjalmarson ‘00 CIS Banking Officer for Network Computing and Telecommunications, M&T Bank RESPONSIBILITIES

RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Reporting, travel arrangements, scheduling meetings and conferences.

include: Managing relationships between the different banking divisions throughout M&T Bank, specifically for integrating new applications into the network infrastructure of the bank, including servers, networks, routers, PCs, and other various computing systems.

Why did you choose Medaille? “I chose Medaille for the ACCEL program, where they provided you with everything you need, such as books and a laptop - it made life easier. Plus it fit my schedule since the courses were only six weeks long.”

Providing security for 500+ workstations, being the system administrator for software systems, and training M&T employees in software products and Passport Transaction Generators. Why did you choose Medaille? “I chose Medaille for the 2+2=12 program because I was working full time during the day and attending at night best fit my needs. Medaille was also very helpful because they were flexible about your classes. You never had trouble taking what you need. They find ways to accommodate you.”

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■ F E AT U R E A R T I C L E M E D A I L L E A S S E T S

How has Medaille helped your career? “Medaille prepared me for the job market by providing communications and writing skills, but also introduced me to many of the people I would end up working and networking with.” What are your fondest memories of Medaille? “My best memories are the teachers they were big influences on my education, my self-learning and my self-awareness,” Rivera-Sikorski says. “They helped me not only in my studies but to prepare me for the work environment. It helped me become a well-rounded individual.”

What are your fondest memories of Medaille? “My best memories of Medaille are the study groups. I enjoyed the people I met because they were all from different backgrounds and were able to bring different experiences into the classroom. I spent a lot of time with these people and I am still in contact with some.” Kim Slowinski ‘01 MBA Supervisor, M&T Investment Group

RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Overseeing Sonny Mae loans for first-time home buyers and maintaining those loans. Why did you choose Medaille? “I chose Medaille because they offered the ACCEL program which really fit my life at the time. I was a parent working full-time, and I wanted to go to school full-time. The six-week classes year round were perfect for me.” How has Medaille helped your career? “It prepared and advanced my career by giving me the tools and the education that I needed to succeed.”

RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Working with M&T bankruptcy attorneys to prepare figures, preparing motions for release and proof of claims, and managing the department budget. Why did you choose Medaille? “I chose Sport Management at Medaille because at the time, I wanted to land a job with the Buffalo Sabres.”

RESPONSIBILITIES

include: Michelle Mayo ‘01 BA Investor Reporting Specialist, M&T Bank

Maryann Grabowski ‘99 SM Bankruptcy Specialist, M&T Mortgage Corporation

Oversight of the wire transfer group for the accounting department as well as the mail distribution area. Why did you choose Medaille? “I chose Medaille for the 2+2=12 program because I could go at night, enjoy full-time status, and not feel overwhelmed. I also liked the small classes. You got to really know your teachers.” How has Medaille helped your career? “It helped me advance in my career by giving me the skills and knowledge I needed to work in a supervisory position. My goal was to move up in the management at M&T and with my MBA, I was able to do that.” What are your fondest memories of Medaille? “My best memory of Medaille was a professor named Randy Brown who helped me tremendously. He took the time to work with me. I also enjoyed my capstone study group because we spent what seemed like 24 hours a day together. We were the 1st MBA class to achieve a perfect score on the capstone business simulation.”

How has Medaille helped your career? “Medaille helped me because when I had a difficult time finding a position in my field. Carol Cullinan from Career Services was a key to helping me prepare my resume and land and act properly in an interview.” What are your fondest memories of Medaille? “My best memories of Medaille include hanging out with my friends in the student center. I also remember being a work study with the athletic department.”

Medaille Graduates ASSETS in the FINANCIAL MARKET

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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★

idol

MEDAILLE KELLY COSTELLO

★

“When you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance,” Kelly Costello proclaimed as she sang a popular country song by Lee Ann Womack in the final round of the Medaille Idol competition at Medaille College. Costello was crowned the winner after three rounds of competition including an a cappella first round, a song from the ‘80s and the contestant’s choice for the third round.

Kelly’s success at Medaille Idol earned her a birth into the Western New York College Idol, sponsored by Niagara University where she finished fourth. Costello, a Sophomore majoring in Psychology, went up against the 12 winners from various schools in the Western New York region. The three contestants who finished ahead of Costello all attend schools with vocal music programs. “It was actually quite funny that I won the Medaille Idol, seeing as how I forgot the words to my last song while I was on stage singing it,” commented Costello. “There was a girl standing in the back who had been eliminated in an earlier round who knew all the words, and she started singing along with me which really helped me with the words.”

During her freshman year, Kelly lived at home in Hamburg, NY, and commuted to school. Currently she is a resident student living in the South Residence Hall, which gives her a unique perspective that is helpful as an Ambassador.

“There is definitely a difference in the college experience between resident students and commuters. Residents have more rules to follow, but the smaller campus lends itself to making more intimate friends,” says Costello. “I’ve already met the friends that I want to be in my wedding, that I want to be in my life for the duration.”

with enough people to provide an array of opinions, but not so many as to be intimidated to ask questions. She also pointed out how accessible her instructors were and how the campus support system for students was excellent. “I think Dr. Horowitz is probably the biggest influence I’ve come across,” said Kelly. “She is just brilliant and she is helping me to find an internship to get a start in the field of psychology.”

★ ★

An idol can be an ideal representation of something, and Costello definitely represents a model student. In addition to a strong GPA, she is involved on campus - she is a Student Ambassador, Cheerleader, Singing Mav, Multicultural Club Member, Psychology Club Member, and part of Medaille’s Leadership Program.

■ STUDENT PROFILE

Off campus, Costello is an accomplished Irish Dancer at the national level, competing with the Woodgate Dance Academy in national competitions every Thanksgiving. She also teaches dance to a variety of age groups as well for the O’Sullivan-Finn Academy in South Buffalo.

Kelly admits that it is easier for resident students to get involved around campus, but makes sure to point out that there is nothing difficult about getting involved for commuters. They key, according to Kelly, is just taking the initiative to get involved.

Academically, Costello cites the efforts of the faculty in her major as making it, in her opinion, one of the best majors at Medaille. She enjoys the comfortable classroom atmosphere

Medaille College has taught Kelly a lot more than just the academia surrounding her major. Kelly realizes that at the conclusion of her second year, she is learning a lot more about herself and her potential. “I learned work ethic and time management skills,” she says. “I think I’m more organized than I ever was in high school.” Costello looks forward to continuing her education after she graduates from Medaille College in ‘07. She is looking to attend graduate school in New York City where she will be able to keep in touch with theater and music, both of which she enjoys.

As a Student Ambassador, Kelly works in the Office of Admissions talking with high school seniors about college life and what they should look for when choosing a school. “I’m a bad liar,” says Kelly, “so I end up being really honest with these kids.”

If there is one thing for sure about the future of Kelly Costello, it is that when she gets the chance to sit it out or dance, she is going to dance.

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Promotion? New job? Marriage? Let us know and we’ll let your classmates know. Fill us in by filling this out.

MAIL Medaille College Magazine, 18 Agassiz Circle, Buffalo, NY 14214 FAX to 716.884.0291 EMAIL jgill@medaille.edu WEB medaille.edu/alumni and link to the Alumni Affairs Inquiry Form. 4 Wedding NAME

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Submit this card and be entered to win a Medaille gift basket! One winner per issue. Bob Holliday, ’99 MBA, Director, Head of Global Oncology Training for Novartis Pharmaceuticals, is the Winter-issue winner of a Medaille gift basket for submitting class notes.

CITY

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honors, milestones, travels, etc.

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

1970’s

Shelley Bernosky ‘72 ED has worked for the Buffalo School Board for 30 years and is currently a Technical Integration Specialist at the Drew Science Magnet. Susan Beeler ‘74 ED is a Remedial Math Teacher in the Buffalo Public Schools. She is also an active member of the Medaille Alumni Association. Sandra Schrader ‘75 ED is a Republican Senator for the State of Maryland. James Heaney ‘77 MC is an Investigative Reporter for The Buffalo News. Don Tomasulo ‘79 MC is the General Sales Manager for Entercom Radio.

1980’s

CLASS AGENT, TIM WALSH ’85, ’02

Marie E. Hare ‘81 LS is the Vice President for Community Affairs at Key Bank. Karen A. Koller CAE ‘81 LS is the President and CEO of RCAP Solutions, Inc. in Massachusetts. Jane J. Matthews ‘81 ED is attending American Sign Language School.

■ CLASS NOTES

Russ Gentner ‘82 MC is a Vice President for Commercial Lending at First Niagara Bank. Lawrence Ott ‘82 MC works at Verizon and is a Columnist for The Buffalo News. Wilfred Roach ‘84 BA works as a Fire Equipment Operator for the City of Columbia, South Carolina.

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CLASS REUNION AGENTS 1980 DIANE PENROD, PH.D. 1985 EILEEN (GARBO) BUCKLEY 1997 ROBERT F. GUILLOW 1997 ANDREW SCHWARTZ

CLASSnotes CLASS AGENT, TIM WALSH ’85, ’02

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Alanna L. Pohl ‘85 MC works with Aspire of Western New York and the Lancaster Opera House, as well as volunteering with the Greyhound Rescue Adoption Team and Buffalo Greyhound Adoption. Lisa A. Valvo ‘85 MC is a self-employed attorney who concentrates on real property, wills and estates, and matrimonial and family law. Jeanine Cieslica Ashman ‘86 BA is a Second Vice President for Investments with Smith Barney. Amy LaPenna-Coddington ‘87 MC is an Account Executive with J. Fitzgerald Group. Linda F. Seay ‘87 BA is the Personnel Director at American Axle and Manufacturing, Inc. LuAnn Malkiewicz ‘88 LS is Customer Representative at Key Bank. Arthur L. Weathersby ‘88 LS was promoted to Group Supervisor and Paralegal Specialist of the Social Security Administration in the Office of Hearings and Appeals. He is also an Associate Minister at the First Baptist Church in Huntington, West Virginia.

1990’s

CLASS AGENT, KEITH KOCH ’00

Sharon Brewer ‘90 BA is a Loan Closing Professional at Key Bank in Amherst. Ronald Ross ‘90 MBA works for Electronic Media Solutions as a Sales Representative. He is also developing a new business focusing on multimedia communication and is a member of the Greater Rochester Business Network International Group.

Sharon A. Malo ‘91 BA is a Special Education Teaching Assistant for Amherst High School. Stephen Norton ‘93 MC is responsible for Corporate Communications at STERIS Corporation. Madeline Fasanello ‘94 ED is an Elementary School Teacher for the Buffalo Board of Education. She is a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, a Lector at St. Leo the Great and a member of “Reading Academy,” a facet of the “No Child Left Behind” Act. John F. Barry ‘95 ED is the Coordinator of Special Education for the Jamestown Public Schools. Neil Dengler ‘97 SM is the Director of Development at the Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York. Andrew Schwartz ‘97 MC is the Director of Marketing for Olympic Management Systems in Buffalo. Pamela D. Cahill ‘98 ED currently runs three businesses including a beauty shop, a retail co-op, and an angel doll air freshener design company. Her most recent endeavor is a business plan for a daycare center that focuses on global learning methods and will be called Global Explore. Margaret J. Domagalski ‘98 HR is a Senior Organizational and Employee Development Specialist at First Niagara Bank. Roxanne Rivera-Sikorski ‘98 BA is a CPI System Administrator with M&T Mortgage Corporation. Debra Valenti ‘98 HR is an Assistant Vice President for Organizational and Employee Development at First Niagara Bank.

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■ CLASS NOTES

Stephen L. Cicchinelli ‘99 CIS is a Sales Support Manager at Verizon. He earned his MBA in Global Management in 2005 from the University of Phoenix. Patty Danni ‘99 BA is the Vice President of Finance at Preferred Medical Supply.

Amber Widenor ‘99 VT earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology at the University of Buffalo and is currently attending St. John Fisher College for her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling.

2000’s

Maryann Grabowski ‘99 SM is a Bankruptcy Specialist with M&T Mortgage Corporation. Alexander Hersh ‘99 BA is a Financial Consultant and Associate with John James Financial Groups, Ltd. Robert Holliday ‘99 MBA was recently promoted to Director and Head of Global Oncology Training for Novartis Pharmaceuticals in Florham Park, New Jersey. Ann Horn-Jeddy ‘99 BA is an Academic Service Coordinator for Medaille College’s ACCELerated Learning Program in Rochester. Suzanne M. McEvoy ‘99 BA transferred to Goodyear Tire & Rubber Corp. in Akron, Ohio, where she is a Marketing Administrator. Dale Stephens ‘99 BA is a Quality Director for the New York State Thruway Authority. He received the Governor’s Award for his leadership of excellence in State service as an African-American.

SHADED AREAS DENOTE SIGNIFICANT ANNIVERSARIES.

BA Business Administration BIO Biology CIS Computer Information Systems CJ Criminal Justice CW Creative Writing CYS Child and Youth Services

ED FS HR HS LS LIT

Lisa Piecki ‘01 BA is working towards her New York State Realtor’s License while working as a Legal Assistant for Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority. Kim Slowinski ‘01 MBA is a Supervisor with M&T Investment Group. Tina Smith ‘01 MC is a Marketing Coordinator with First Niagara Bank.

CLASS AGENT, KEITH KOCH ’00

Tanisha Stephens ‘01 MC is a Brokerage Operations Specialist for M&T Bank.

Agron Elmazi ‘00 FS is a Relationship Banker IV with First Niagara Bank.

Andrea Belis ‘02 CYS is a Residence Director at Binghamton University and an Assistant Youth Coordinator at the YMCA.

Mark Hjalmarson ‘00 CIS is a Banking Officer, Network Computing and Telecommunications, with M&T Bank. Janelle E. Newton ‘00 VT is the Head Veterinary Technician at Fulton-Miami County Veterinary Clinic in Peru, Indiana.

Toni Lynn Gaiter Vazquez ‘02 MBA is the Owner and Practice Administrator of Urban Family Practice and a member of the Better Business Bureau.

Dana Grabski ‘01 MC is the Coordinator of Vocational Services for Horizon Health Services in Buffalo.

Molly Jacobs ‘02 MC is a Sales Assistant at Citadel Broadcasting.

Thomas Kaska ‘01 BA is the Supervisor of Accounts Receivable for Fisher-Price, Inc. Teri Kopp ‘01 BA is the Co-owner of two Tim Horton’s franchises in Rochester. She is also serving on the Board of Directors for the Westside Family YMCA. Renee Laudisio ‘01 BA is an Administrative Assistant with M&T Mortgage Corporation. Micelle Mayo ‘01 BA is an Investor Reporting Specialist with M&T Bank.

Education Financial Services Human Resources Health and Human Services Liberal Studies Literature

MBA Masters in Business Administration MS in Ed Masters in Education MA MHC Masters in Mental Health Counseling MA PSY Masters in Psychology

Christine Kibler ‘02 BA earned her Masters of Science Degree in Professional Leadership from St. Bonaventure University. The program included a two-week business studies program in China. She is currently a Supervisor in Administrative Services for Merchants Insurance Group. Cecelia Raine ‘02 BA is a Portfolio Manager for Fannie Mae, where she was awarded the company’s WAVE Award in honor of her volunteer efforts. She is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

MA OL Masters in Organizational Leadership MC Media Communications MNP Managing Non-Profits PSY Psychology

PW SM SS VDA VT

Professional Writing Sports Management Social Sciences Video and Digital Arts Veterinary Technology

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

Nicole Stewart ‘02 LS is a Residential Underwriter for the Greater Buffalo Savings Bank. She is also the President of the Board of Trustees at KIPP Sankofa Charter School, a member of the Pinnacle Charter School PTA, and a member of the Western New York Charter School Coalition. Theresa M. Hain ‘03 BA is a Marketing and Sales Executive for The Color Works, Inc. She is also a Member of the National Association for Female Executives. Corey Jarzyniecki ‘03 BA joined the American Society of Plumbing Engineers and is a Manufacturer’s Representative for Urell, Inc.

Tim Miller ‘03 BA is an Enrollment Counselor for the Medaille College Amherst Campus. Amanda Thomann-Twentyfive ‘03 BA is a Marketing Specialist for Computer Task Group. She is also on the Ride for Roswell Committee. Suzette Waite ‘03 BA is a Member of the American Dental Hygienist Association. She also volunteers at the Community House Center of Buffalo.

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David Bellissimo ‘04 BA is the President of Niagara Business Associates. Scott Hersee ‘04 BA works at Key Bank as an Accounting Specialist and also runs his own internet network marketing business. Sharon Lebron ‘04 HS is a Housing Specialist for Black Rock-Riverside Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. Kathryn E. Galus ‘05 BA is a Physician Contract Specialist with Independent Health Association.

Kashia Baldelli ‘04 MBA is the Marketing Director at Peregrine’s Landing, a senior community.

IN MEMORIAM Sister Mary Mark Quinlan, OSF, November 24, 2004 - A graduate of Mount St. Joseph Teachers College, she spent over 50 years in the field of education as a teacher and a principal.

WEDDINGS ■ T H E S T R AT E G I C P L A N F O R M E D A I L L E C O L L E G E

Renee Hamner ‘98 VT and Tim Rabideau. Amber Widenor ‘99 VT and Chun Chan. Janelle E. Newton ‘00 VT and Justin S. Newton. Craig R. Hausrath ‘01 SM and Sherry A. Papaj have announced their intentions to wed in June 2005. Dana Grabski ‘01 MC and James Wodowski announced their plans to wed in October 2005. Justin D. Raybeck ‘02 BA and Ann M. Gorenflo announced their plans to wed in August of 2005.

Verna McGee, January 4, 2005 - McGee worked for Niagara Vocational Rehabilitation Center in Buffalo as a Health Services Supervisor before she retired in the early 1980s. Sister Mary Martina Baniszewski, February 1, 2005 - Baniszewski taught for over 50 years in Catholic elementary schools throughout the Buffalo Diocese. Teresa E. Savage ‘81 LS January 31, 2005 - Earned her degree from Medaille College at the age of 65. She was one of 17 children in her family, and she started working when she was 11 years old.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS Jane J. Matthews ‘81 ED is the proud grandmother of Tyla Rae Matthews, born in August 2004. Amber Widenor ‘99 VT is expecting her first child in late May of this year. Janelle E. Newton ‘00 VT is proud to announce the births of her children. Her daughter, Christina, was born in August of 2003 and her son, Charles, was born in December, 2004. Tanisha Stephens ‘01 MC is the proud mother of Danyell Lamar Mackin, Jr.

Laura A. Horner ‘03 MBA and James Fleming. Amanda Thomann ‘03 BA and Nick Twentyfive.

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

Lady Mavs

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profile

TEAM

Make Big Splash in AMCC The Lady Mavericks entered the 2004-2005 with a bit of uncertainty. This came with the challenge of replacing five seniors with freshmen, and getting a group who have never played together before to gel as one unit. It also was the team’s first year in the highly competitive Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC). Developing chemistry didn’t take long for this team, as they started out the season with 7-2 record. The starting lineup was freshman dominated, as four out of five starters were freshmen with only senior Rachel Conti on the floor at tip-off. The Lady Mavs not only met their challenges, but far exceeded anybody’s expectations. run at a conference title ended with a two-point loss in the semi-finals of the AMCC tournament.

“We knew we could be good but we also knew that we needed a lot of hard work as well,” Amanda Walling, freshman guard, said. “Injuries to some of our team members early in the season were difficult for us, but we overcame it and continued to give 110%.”

In addition to the various team accomplishments, many individual players were honored during the course of the season. Walling, Clark, and Baker were each named the AMCC Player of the Week during January and February. The postseason

■ MEDAILLE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Under the direction of Coach Pete Lonergan and assistant coaches Keith Koch, Ron Stepian, and Kathy Meder, they continued their winning ways and ended the 2004-05 season with a 20-7 record. Point Guard Marisa Clark

The team accomplished a number of “firsts” throughout this remarkable season - the first 20 win season, the first invitation to a post-season tournament (ECAE Tourney), the first 12-game winning streak, and the first two players selected to first-team AMCC honors, freshmen Amanda Baker & Marisa Clark. “We were successful not only because of hard work, but because of the character our team showed in handling

different obstacles throughout the season,” Meder said. “We had great leadership from our seniors that molded a talented and eager group of freshman that were all willing to fill their roles.” While posting the best record for a Medaille Women’s Basketball Team, the team finished third in the AMCC. One of the biggest highlights of the season was the back to back road wins over #1 Frostburg and #2 Pitt-Greensburg. The team’s strong

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

Lady Mavs Always a Step Ahead

awards were also plentiful as Baker was named Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year for the AMCC, in addition to being named all-conference along with Clark. According to Coach Lonergan, “Although the team has accomplished much this year, these driven, confident, and dedicated young women are not satisfied. They want to go all they way, they want a championship!” With a common goal, they developed

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a camaraderie and work ethic that made the players feel like family to each other. “What we went through this season brought us together,” Shannon Superczynski stated. “We actually were like one big family, teammates by chance, sisters by choice.” With talent, winning experience and team unity, the Lady Mavs have the tools in place to achieve championship dreams.

the Coaches Pete Lonergan - Head Coach What do you like about Medaille? “What I like most about Medaille is the intimate, family atmosphere that permeates the campus life, which fosters the personal attention that is available in a school this size, compared to the larger university settings.”

Kathy Meder - Graduate Assistant What do you like about Medaille? “Medaille is a small and involved community. Its intimate setting allows for the development of close-knit relationships amongst students, especially teammates. It’s great to see everyone at the games and so enthused for our team.”

What do you do for fun when you are not coaching? “I like to read, jog, and play golf. But some days the golf gets removed from this list, depending on how I am playing!”

Keith Koch ‘00 - Assistant Coach What do you like about Medaille? “I like the small school atmosphere and the personalized attention that students get. I also love teaching the sport of basketball, the interaction with the players and the opportunity to not only teach, but to learn from my players.” What do you do for fun when you are not coaching? “Outside of coaching the Women’s Basketball Team, I am the Head Coach for the Men’s Volleyball Team and the Alumni & Medaille Fund Officer.

■ MEDAILLE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

When I am not coaching or working, I am either spending time with my wife, Christine, or studying. I will be completing my MBA in May.”

What do you do for fun when you are not coaching? “I work, a lot. I am the assistant ticket manager at Dunn Tire Park, I work events in the ticket office at HSBC arena, and I bartend two nights a week at a family-owned bar in Tonawanda. I am also helping to coach the women’s softball team and I am pursuing a Master’s degree in Sport Administration from Canisius College. I will graduate in May.”

Let’s meet the team: 34

■ MEDAILLE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL It Takes More than a Valiant Effort to Bring Down Lady Mavs

the Players 32 Amanda Baker - Freshman Forward What do you like about Medaille? “Medaille College is not only going to help me improve my skills in athletics but also give me an education in the desired field of my choice.”

What do you like to do for fun? “I like playing basketball and drawing.”

44 Meghan Finn - Freshman Forward What do you like about Medaille? “The small population of the school and the small classes.”

50 Rachel Boice - Freshman Center What do you like about Medaille? “The small school atmosphere! People here really care about each other.”

What do you like to do for fun? “Every now and then I love skipping town to visit my friends.”

What do you like to do for fun? “I like playing volleyball or just hanging out.”

21 Marisa Clark Freshman Guard

50 44

What do you like about Medaille? “Medaille will hopefully help me decide on a career and what I want to do with my future. I also hope that Medaille will make me a better athlete on the basketball court.” What do you like to do for fun? “I enjoy soccer, basketball and shopping.”

10 Rachel Conti - Senior Captain and Guard

What do you like about Medaille? “Medaille fits for me both academically and athletically very well. My major is well thought out and I have a lot of support from my teachers and counselors. Athletically, I’m very pleased to have the opportunity to play basketball at the college level. I’m very happy with my teammates and our coaching staff.

42 10

42 Mary Helak - Senior Guard What do you like about Medaille? “Medaille gave me the opportunity to continue my athletic career while staying in the field of Sport Management. The friends I have made here are some of the most amazing people in the world. I am grateful for the Medaille experience.” What do you like to do for fun? “I sleep and work when I am not playing, practicing or studying.”

What do you like to do for fun? “I enjoy playing basketball, going shopping, hanging out with my friends, and mafia dinner on Sundays.”

profile

TEAM 35

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MEDAILLE COLLEGE MAGAZINE SPRING 2005

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the Players continued

25 Lauren Smith - Sophomore Forward

40 Katie Kohlmeier

What do you like about Medaille? “Academically, Medaille is a great fit. The Elementary Education program is very good. For the most part, I like my professors and I get along and have become friends with many people from my classes. Athletically, I love the fact that I still have the opportunity to play three sports. Almost all of the teams we play against are competitive and evenly matched, so the games are really fun.”

- Freshman Forward What do you like about Medaille? “Athletically, Medaille has a wonderful community. The same is true with academics, and there is a lot of support in my Veterinary Technology program.” What do you like to do for fun? “I enjoy Irish dancing, softball, and tennis.”

What do you like to do for fun? “I like volleyball, basketball, softball, golf, rollerblading, scrap booking, reading, sewing, and sleeping.”

3 Sara Lewis - Freshman Guard What do you like about Medaille? “I really like the small school environment. I came from a small high school, so going to a small college was good for me. I don’t live too far from here, so I can go home whenever I want. I also like the fact that everyone is so close; we had a lot of support from the fans at all of our games.”

45 Shannon Supercznski - Freshman Guard

What do you like to do for fun? “I am also on the softball team here at Medaille and that along with my studies keeps me pretty busy. Outside of that, I enjoy all kinds of sports and love to have fun and hang out with my friends.”

5 Kim Sendlak - Freshman Center

■ MEDAILLE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

What do you like about Medaille? “Medaille has a very good biology program and it’s not too big of a school.”

What do you like about Medaille? “I like the fact that Medaille is a small school. It does not take long for you to get to know people, especially if you get involved in sports.”

What do you like to do for fun? “Besides basketball, I also play soccer and softball. I am on Medaille’s softball team and I am playing soccer next year. A typical day for me consists of school, practice and/or work, and then sleep - but in college that’s hard to get! For fun I like to hang out with my friends, go to the movies (scary ones), and play softball and soccer. I just love being around my friends, and because of basketball, I have found some unforgettable ones, with memories to last a lifetime.”

12 Amanda Walling - Freshman Guard

What do you like to do for fun? “I enjoy running, music, and ripping.”

What do you like about Medaille? “The best thing would have to be the basketball team. If it weren’t for my team, I don’t know where I would be today. I also like Medaille’s size. I am from a small town and small high school and I did not want to go anywhere too large. Medaille is the perfect size for me.”

According to Coach Lonergan, “Although the team has accomplished much this year, these driven, confident, and dedicated young women are not satisfied. They want to go all they way, they want a championship!”

What do you like to do for fun? “When I am not playing or practicing, I like to work out to stay in shape. I also do homework and I like to hang out with my family, friends, and my boyfriend. I also like to go shopping when I am in the mood.

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The ________ Scholarship Your name here.

The ________ Building Your name here.

The ________ Laboratory Your name here.

The ________ Professorship Your name here.

The ________ Fund for New Initiatives. Your name here.

Allow Medaille to be part of your legacy. Through donating gifts of assets, life-income, retirement plans, life insurance, or by naming Medaille in your will, you can help generations of Medaille students by: 4

Starting a scholarship

Helping teachers

Funding a program

Providing stipends

Renovating a building

Improving Technologies

Promoting a cause

Leaving a legacy

At the same time, you may reduce your own income taxes, avoid capital gains tax, increase your spendable income, retain payments-for-life, and achieve no-cost, worry-free asset management, depending upon your arrangements. We can facilitate your decision to maintain your Medaille connection and benefit future generations. Please call Keith Koch â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;00, Alumni and Medaille Fund Officer 716.884.3281 or email kkoch@medaille.edu. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put this off. Get the financial benefits in the present, help students in the future.

18 Agassiz Circle, Buffalo, NY 14214 716.884.3281 800.292.1582 fax 716.884.0291 www.medaille.edu

UPCOMINGEVENTS Medaille College All Years Reunion June 3-5, 2005 Medaille College Golf Classic Transit Valley Country Club September 26, 2005 For information, contact the College Relations Office at 884-3411 ext. 146

Medaille College

Commencement

Kleinhans Music Hall May 20, 2005 Graduate Ceremony 1:00 p.m. Undergraduate Ceremony 7:00 p.m.

Information about all Medaille College events, including NCAA sports schedules, can be found at www.medaille.edu

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