hilbert college magazine - spring 2013
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Hilbert College Magazine - Spring 2013 EditionTRANSCRIPT
HILBERTCOLLEGEmagazineOn Campus p.5 | Alumni News & Notes p.14 | Athletic News & Notes p.20 | Donor Profile p.23
Spring 2013
Men's BasketballA Magical Season p.18
2 spring
PRESIDENT'SLETTER
2 spring
HILBERT COLLEGE MAGAZINEA publication for alumni, family,
and friends of Hilbert College
FOUNDED 1957 5200 South Park Avenue
Hamburg, NY 14075 Phone: 716.649.7900
Fax: [email protected]
ON THE WEB: hilbert.edu/alumni/hilbert-connections
Matt Heidt PUBLISHER/EDITOR
Patrick Broadwater CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Ian Gattie CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Elizabeth R. MautePUBLICATION DESIGN
Gregg FortVICE PRESIDENT FOR
INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Craig HarrisASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR
DEVELOPMENT
Deanna MessingerANNUAL AND SPECIAL GIVING
Alaina HouseknechtALUMNI AND SPECIAL EVENTS
ON THE COVERMen's basketball team with
Athletics Director Sue Viscomi and President Cynthia Zane. Photo by
Ian Gattie.
To everything there is a season, and a
It is that wonderful time of year in Western New York when we again experience
the change of seasons and with baby geese swimming in the pond, the trees blooming
gloriously, with the sound of lawn mowers confirming that spring has arrived. This issue
of the Hilbert College Magazine continues the theme “To everything there is a season” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) as it describes the celebration for Hilbert’s first master’s graduates in its 56-
year history. I know you are going to be impressed with Robert Gardner’s story, Hilbert’s first
triple Hawk who exemplifies a lifelong learner pursuing degrees in criminal justice season
after season. What a joy it will be for me at commencement to present him with his third
Hilbert diploma!
Joy is the only word that fits the success our men’s basketball team experienced this year.
They finished with twenty wins, the best record in Hilbert history and their first ever regular
season championship in the AMCC. Like the many students, faculty, staff, and alumni who
attended the playoff game, I was hoarse for several days from singing When the Hawks Go Marching In and the non-stop cheering. Although the outcome of the game was not the one
we had hoped for, it was thrilling to see the support the team received, especially from our
current students.
Spring has also brought new personnel changes to Hilbert. I know you join me in welcoming
Justin Rogers, our new Director of Admissions, and Matt Heidt, serving as the Public
Relations and Media Coordinator, to the Hilbert Community. If you are on Facebook or
Twitter, you have observed the increased visibility of Hilbert, thanks to Matt. I must confess
my skill set maxes out with email, but the feedback from our external constituents has been
highly positive and if your technological expertise exceeds mine, check us out!
May has been a time of loss for our Athletic Department with the departure of Athletic
Director, Sue Viscomi. In her three years at Hilbert, Sue transformed our Athletic Program
and achieved amazing results not only with our athletic teams but most importantly with the
academic achievements of our student-athletes. Sue will be deeply missed and a national
search is underway for her successor. We wish Sue the best as she assumes her dream job as
the new AD at SUNY Oswego.
Finally, I want to express my deep appreciation to all who have so generously supported our
annual fund in the last few months. Thanks to you many students will receive scholarship
support in the upcoming year that will enable them to achieve their goal of earning a degree
from Hilbert College.
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. It has been
a wonderful spring season at Hilbert, and our purpose to educate students in the Catholic
Franciscan tradition to become citizens committed to serving and strengthening their
communities continues.
Cynthia A. Zane, Ed.D.
President
time to every purposeunder the heaven
table of contents
HC Magazine | 2013 3
MBB Regular Season Champs 18The Hilbert men's basketball team came up just short
of their first Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) tournament title, but that does not erase the many accomplishments of this year’s squad. Hilbert finished the year with a 20-6 record — the best record in school history. The Hawks won their first ever regular-season championship and earned the right to host the AMCC’s championship weekend.
On Campus 5Campus News & Notes 5
Four New Business Programs 6
Graduate Pinning Ceremony 7
Student News & Notes 8
Robert Gardner 10Hilbert's First 'Triple-Hawk' 10
Alumni 14Alumni Association 14
Alumni News and Notes 14
Alumni Event News 16
Athletics 20Athletics News and Notes 20
Awards Reception 20
Viscomi Accepts Position at Oswego 21
Athletic Team Awards 22
Franciscan Footprints 22
Donor Profile 23SPECIAL THANKS TO: THE HILBERT COLLEGE MAGAZINE EDITORIAL BOARDDr. Anthony Hughes, Peter Burns, Gregg Fort,
Ian Gattie, Craig Harris & Alaina Houseknecht
4 spring4 spring
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HC Magazine | 2013 5
Campus News and NotesLEGAL STUDIES At its mid-year meeting in February, the American Bar Association House of Delegates granted re-approval to the Legal Studies Program at Hilbert College. Hilbert’s paralegal studies program is the oldest and most established paralegal program in Western New York. It has also been approved by the ABA since 1977 and is a charter member of the American Association for Paralegal Education.
MLK SPEAKERAward-winning author and journalist, Farai Chideya, was the keynote speaker at Hilbert College’s Annual Commemoration Lecture in the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. held on January 31. Chideya brought more than 20 years of experience in the world of media, technology, and social justice to Hilbert and spoke on “What Happens To Equality When We’re All Minorities: Re-Imagining King’s Dream For A Post-Majority America.”
FREE ALL DAY CONFERENCE Hilbert College and St. Bonaventure University hosted a free all day conference on "Strategies for Success in Working with Special Populations" on April 12. Keynote speaker Ron Hager, Esq. opened the conference, followed by break-out sessions and lunch. Hager is a Senior Staff Attorney at Disability Rights Network and has specialized in disability law, particularly special education, since 1979, when he started his legal career in Buffalo as a VISTA attorney. He was a Clinical Professor at the State University of New York at Buffalo Law School for nine years, supervising the Education Law Clinic. In 1991, Hager moved to Neighborhood Legal Services (NLS) where he represented clients in a wide variety of disability-related cases. He was co-chair of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee on the Rights of People with Disabilities for four years and was the President of the Board of Directors of Autistic Services, Inc. in Western New York for 10 years.
ANXIETY DISORDER LECTUREHilbert College hosted "Breaking the Chain: Anxiety Disorder Lecture" on Wednesday, March 27. Dr. William Reynolds from the Buffalo Psychiatric Center presented the lecture. He has been at the Psychiatric Center for nine years and has vast experience in this area, including an in-house cable show. The lecture addressed the causes, the struggles, the treatment and what you can do to help.
ACTIVE SHOOTER TRAININGClose to 300 members of the business community took part in a training session at Hilbert College called “Active shooter: educate yourself to protect yourself,” on how to prevent a shooting situation and what you should do in a worst case scenario.
VISITING ARTISTAs part of its ongoing Visiting Artist Series, the Hilbert College English program presented Ann Pancake on May 1. The award winning novelist and short story writer read from and discussed her novel, Strange As This Weather Has Been, at William E. Swan Auditorium.
TASKER SPEAKS AT HILBERTThe Hamburg Chamber of Commerce partnered with Hilbert College to offer the fourth event of the series of “Better Your Business” seminars. On Friday, April 5 Steve Tasker, former Buffalo Bill and current spokeman for the West Herr Automotive Group, spoke at Swan Hall Auditorium. The program was followed by a question and answer session with the former Pro Bowler and current CBS Analyst. The series of seminars aimed to offer an informative and inspirational line up of speakers, trainers, and professionals to present on key strategies that are pertinent to creating successful businesses.
ROTARY PEACE FORUM“Healing Communities: Options for Investing in Youth,” the third Rotary Peace Forum, was held on Thursday, April 25 in Bogel Hall at Hilbert College. The Forum looks forward to a generation of healthier, more peaceful citizens. Panelists proposed tools, skills, and attitudes that enable people to better understand how differences are an enrichment to be accepted, nurtured, and celebrated. The Peace though Understanding Forums Planning Council feels that if people are happy with who they are and what they do, they will relate better with persons in their lives, in their work, and in their communities. The moderator of the Rotary Peace Forums is Paul Peck, the radio play-by-play voice of Buffalo Bulls football.
BLT PRESENTS ALMOST, MAINEThe Buffalo Laboratory Theatre production of ALMOST, MAINE, by John Cariani, ran at Hilbert's Swan Hall Auditorium April 12-27 and received a 4-star review from The Buffalo News in the Gusto section. The production was described as a touching romantic comedy with lovely live music, singing and plenty of heart! The play was directed by Katie White and starred BLT returning favorites John and Tara Kaczarowski. Moreover, the show featured BLT newcomers Jacob Kahn, Kelsey Mogenson, Mary Ryan and Shawn William Smith.
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ONCAMPUS
Hilbert College announced that it has restructured its undergraduate business department to introduce four new bachelor degree programs.
Hilbert now offers bachelor’s degrees in business management, global business management, small business management, and sports industry management to accommodate the diverse field and the interests of incoming students. Hilbert is accepting applications for the Fall 2013 semester. Previously, Hilbert’s business department offered only a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Management prepares students for today's challenging and highly competitive business environment. The curriculum is based on critical knowledge, marketable skills, and specific competencies critical to successfully managing in the global economy. In addition to helping students build core knowledge in business, the B.S. in Business Management focuses on specific skills and competencies in functional, business, and strategic areas of management.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Global Business Management (GBM) meets the needs and demands of today's global economy, which is complex, highly integrated, and multifaceted. The GBM curriculum prepares students to meet new challenges in global markets by providing broad-based knowledge and understanding of topics and concepts in global business, as well as specific business skills and
competencies for employment with businesses and multinational corporations, non-government organizations (NGOs), multilateral banks, and government agencies.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Small Business Management (SBM) is designed to meet specific management and human resource needs of small and medium-sized businesses. Given the importance of small businesses to the marketplace and job creation for the U.S. economy, this major prepares students to function successfully in small business environments by helping them gain knowledge and skills necessary to own, operate, and grow a small business. This program is ideal for the young entrepreneur or family member who hopes to carry on and eventually run the family business. The proposed major will help students gain broad-based knowledge and understanding of topics and concepts in business with added emphasis on small business management and entrepreneurship.
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Sports Industry Management is designed to provide students with a practical foundation in business disciplines coupled with the real world experience of internships. In addition to the practical application of business courses, students will complete a core Liberal Arts curriculum that ensures that Hilbert graduates of the sports industry management program are confident writers, strong public speakers, and have the ability to organize, plan and lead in a host of sport related industries. - HC
Hilbert Introduces Four New Business ProgramsB.S. in business management, global business, small business or sports industry
Hilbert College is the 143rd affiliate for Kappa Gamma Pi, the National Catholic College Graduate Honor Society. Kappa Gamma Pi exemplifies excellence in leadership, scholarship, faith, and service.
The purpose of this society is to strive for a high standard of personal Christian excellence, service, and scholarship among members; to encourage individual and group initiative and participation in local and national church and secular affairs; and to awaken a spirit of Christian leadership among the undergraduates of Kappa affiliated colleges and universities.
Kappa, Gamma, and Pi are the initial letters of the Greek phrase that means “Catholic Women Leaders.” The original name has been retained because of its importance in the society’s history. However, both non-Catholics and men are welcomed to the membership of Kappa Gamma Pi each year.
The motto of the society is FAITH AND SERVICE. Membership in Kappa Gamma Pi is a promise for the future, to continue in service to church and community. Members are chosen because they have already demonstrated this commitment, and are expected to continue in this leadership role after graduation. - HC
Kappa Gamma Pi Welcomes Hilbert College
HC Magazine | 2013 7
Hilbert's First Master's Graduates Honored at Pin Ceremony
Hilbert College graduates its first cohort of Master's students this spring and the inaugural class was celebrated with a pinning ceremony held in February. Hilbert will confer two graduate degrees to the Class of 2013, a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration.
ONCAMPUS
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Student News and NotesSTUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS Hilbert College students, Aubre Shofnere of North Tonawanda, Sara Cunningham of Cherry Creek, and Robbi Bailey of Cadyville, were selected to each receive scholarship awards from the Buffalo Chapter of the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS). The awards were presented on Friday, December 7, 2012 during the chapter’s Law Enforcement Appreciation luncheon. The $500 scholarship award also includes a complimentary student-level ASIS membership for each recipient.
STUDENTS ACCEPTED INTO UB LAW SCHOOL Hilbert College students, Ashley Blahowicz of Hamburg, Robert Zielinski of Buffalo, have both been accepted into the University at Buffalo Law School. Robert is a Liberal Studies major and has been awarded a Merit scholarship OF $7500 per year for three years. Ashley is a legal studies major and is an Honors student at Hilbert.
HILBERT'S WHO'S WHO STUDENTS Each year Hilbert College selects students based on the criteria of scholarship, participation and leadership, citizenship and service, and potential for future achievement for recognition in the Who’s Who among Students in American Universities and Colleges.
A total of fifty eight Hilbert students received this year’s recognition. Honorees for 2013 are:Marylynn Aaron of Ransomville; Amanda Alba of Hamburg; Hanah Ali of Orchard Park; Andrew Besch of Elma; Ashley Blahowicz of Hamburg; Nicole Blair of Hamburg; Jennifer Brock of North Tonawanda; Michael Cavanagh of Orchard Park; Adam Clabo of North Tonawanda; Shannon Connor of Amherst; Scott Cvetkovski of Cheektowaga; Chad Damiani of Tonawanda; Maria DelMonaco of Orchard Park; Dana Dequaine of Attica; Renae Fraser of N Collins; Gina Gemmati of Buffalo; Joseph Gioele of Tonawanda; Stacey Gura of Lake View; Amber Grosch of Depew; Cameron Haag of Amherst; Cherie Haas of Warsaw; Anna Hartloff of Lake View; Jonathan Hulbert of Frewsburg; Kelly Jablonicky of Orchard Park; Caitlyn Jacob of Derby; Megan Jarecki of Glenwood; Jason Klosterman of Tonawanda; LeeAnn Klug of Hamburg; James Knapp of Lockport; Rachel Kwiatkowski of West Seneca; Erica Laduca of Rochester; Joshua Lanphear of Lake View; Stephen Lee of Fort Irwin, CA; Justin Longhi of Kersey, PA; Sherita Lowe of Buffalo; Jerrell Mason of Buffalo; Lisa Mast of Elma; Katrina Matthewson of East Aurora; Daniel McFarland of Lancaster; Nicole Meldrum of Kenmore; Jessica Morey of Buffalo; Katie Newton of Batavia; Annilee Obrochta of Angola; Shane Olivieri of Hamburg; Nina Pierino of Chaffee; Ashley Pognant of Cheektowaga; Emili Ripley of Batavia; Marjorie Sanders of Blasdell; Shirleen Schlemmer of Lancaster; Amy Setlock of Lancaster; Jacob Smaczniak of Lancaster; Stephanie Smith of Hamburg; Rebecca Sutton of Eden; Corrie Thoman of Lockport; Laura Vidales of Cheektowaga; Jaymison Walter of Alden; Anna Wojnerowicz of Lockport; Robert Zielinski of Buffalo.
Students from more than 2,300 higher education institutions are represented in the annual directory, which was first published in 1934.
PHI BETA LAMBDA COMPETITION The chapter of Phi Beta Lambda at Hilbert College is an active organization whose mission is to bring business and education together in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership and career development programs.
In April, the New York State chapter of Phi Beta Lambda held its annual competition. Several Hilbert students took home first place in four different categories. The following students were cited for their performance at the competition: •JohnBabocsi,Firstplacein“MarketingAnalysisand Decision-Making” •AdamHaker,Firstplacein“ManagementAnalysisand Decision Making” •DavidHaseley,Firstplacein“HumanResourceManagement” •NinaPierino,Firstplacein“ProjectManagement” •SarahZablonski,Firstplacein“AccountingAnalysisand Decision Making”
Other colleges that were represented in the competition were Briarcliffe College, SUNY Geneseo, Herkimer Community College, SUNY Binghamton, and SUNY Oswego.
GRAD STUDENT'S SURVEY PRESENTED TO VILLAGE BOARDHilbert College graduate student Erin Carmina presented research to the Village of Hamburg Board on February 18, and her presentation was featured in The Buffalo News. Carmina’s survey addressed how local residents and businesses perceive the outcomes and the importance of the Main Street grant program. Village of Hamburg residents think the improvements to Main Street and the business district added to the sense of community in the village, according to the survey by Carmina.
Carmina said she tried to find out how residents and businesses perceive the outcomes and the importance of the Main Street Grant Program. The village was successful in obtaining grants for four years, totaling $800,000, for facade improvements along Main and Buffalo streets. The grant program, along with the reconstruction of Main Street and installation of four roundabouts in the village, are credited with transforming the village into a pedestrian-friendly community with a strong commercial core.
The village was ready for redevelopment, with older buildings, some of which were empty. “The village experienced disinvestment over the years,” Carmina said.
Most respondents to the survey believe that the improvements offer greater opportunities for businesses, enhance the appearance of properties and foster a personal sense of belonging in the village and pride within the community. Respondents also believe that the improvements increase the number of community events in the village, such as fairs and festivals.
ONCAMPUS
HC Magazine | 2013 9
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ONCAMPUS
A full week after the Kentucky Derby, Robert Gardner’s trifecta will be official. But it has nothing to do with horses. And it certainly wasn’t about speed.
When Gardner crosses the finish line – a walk across the stage at Hilbert College’s Commencement ceremony at the Wesleyan Church of Hamburg on May 11 – he will become the first person in school history to have earned three different degrees from the college.
Gardner, an investigator in the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, will receive a master’s degree as part of the inaugural cohort to advance through the Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration program. He previously obtained his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and his associate degree in an academic career at Hilbert that stretches back more than a quarter of a century.
“I’m proud of the accomplishment, and I’m proud for the college because it has had such a great program from the early ‘80s to today,” Gardner said. “I just kept plugging away.”
Indeed, Gardner’s journey has more to do with perseverance and dedication over the long haul than a sprint to the finish. A South Buffalo native, Gardner, 45, graduated from Bishop Timon High School in 1985. At first unsure of what career path he wanted to take, he ultimately set a goal to become a state policeman. His first step was to earn an associate degree from Hilbert, which he accomplished in 1988. He then transferred to Buffalo State College, but left school to take a job as a corrections officer for the New York State Department of Corrections. He rotated through a number of facilities in five and a half years on the job, including a stint at Sing Sing.
In April 1994 he achieved his goal of joining the New York State Police. As a trooper, he started out in Watertown and moved on to Syracuse and then Long Island. He was quickly promoted to sergeant then investigator. He returned to Western New York and began to take classes on a part-time basis at Hilbert with an eye on a new goal:
earning his bachelor’s degree.“It was more for personal reasons but with my career in mind,”
said Gardner, who is now stationed with the State Police Troop A in Boston, N.Y. “I’ve always kept in contact with Mr. (Edward) Qualey, and he would tell me what courses I would need to fulfill the requirements for my bachelor’s degree. It took a while, but I was able to do that.
“You have to try not to limit yourself. You take as many police-related exams as you can, in case your first choice doesn’t pan out. Your second choice may be available. It might be a different agency, or a different adventure. The timing might be off, or there may be budget problems or they aren’t hiring, so you have to explore all of your options. I learned that from Mr. Qualey. He always told me, ‘You have to keep your options open.’”
“He’s always been an outstanding student and very disciplined,” said Qualey, who first taught Gardner in 1986 and served as his advisor during his undergraduate career. “I think he likes this place. He keeps coming back because he likes the way he’s treated, and he’s a great fit for how we do things.”
With a demanding job and a young family at home, Gardner took a couple of courses per year for five years, completing his B.S. degree in 2003. When Hilbert announced that it had added a graduate program in criminal justice administration, which uses a multidisciplinary approach to expose students to a wide swath of advanced issues in criminal justice, Gardner leapt at the chance to return. He is one of the first group of 12 to advance through the 18-month accelerated program.
“It was a no-brainer,” he said. “You can really appreciate how much planning went into getting the program up and running. The program is intensive, but I’ve gained friendships along the way, and I know those friendships will carry on throughout my entire life.
“The master’s program is a lot of work, but that’s a necessity. It’s not
THIRD DEGREERobert Gardner completes trifecta with master’s in criminal justice administration
By Patrick S. Broadwater
HC Magazine | 2013 11
a negative. The standards are high.”Gardner’s final project examined the recidivism rate of sex
offenders in New York State using hard-to-get data from the Division of Criminal Justice Services, which puts strict limits on releasing some information, unless the requestor can demonstrate that its use will be of value to New York State.
“It’s a taxing, practical applied program in leadership in criminal justice,” said Martin Floss, chair of the master’s program. “He’s a very good writer, extremely bright and he did it against the backdrop of being a full-time criminal investigator for the state police and everything else. He was well-liked by the other students, a great mentor and a role model. He’s the whole package.”
Having the understanding of his family was critical. Gardner’s wife, Theresa, and sons Rob and Neil, now 16 and 13 respectively, supported him every step of the way.
“I appreciate the sacrifices my wife and two sons have made,” said Gardner. “With all the work I had to do, sometimes I couldn’t go to a family function or had to cut it short. Or I’d be up to 1 or 2 in the morning working on a paper. They understood that it needed to be done.”
The unintended side effect of Gardner’s double duty was to model the importance of lifelong education to his children.
“When I’m studying and doing papers or going to class, my sons see how much work their father is putting in and they know they have to do the same, whether its grade school, high school or college,” Gardner said. “I tell them education is required. Jobs and sports are secondary right now. It’s important for them to see that education is important.”
Carrying more than 25 years of experience in law enforcement, Gardner has been exposed to the best and worst of human nature. But, obviously, he spends most of his time at work on the worst aspects. He has investigated everything from burglaries to homicides to identity theft, but he says his education from Hilbert has continued to serve him well over the years, in part because many of Hilbert’s criminal justice faculty have worked or still work in the field. Gardner specifically cites Qualey, Floss, Kathleen Pierino and John Culhane as having influenced him the most.
“The teachers bring a lot of real-life experience that they share with the students,” Gardner said. “That’s beneficial to students because then you can relate. That’s in addition to theory. We get both sides of the spectrum – the real-life stories and theory.”
“Our instructors utilize their extensive backgrounds in law enforcement and corrections,” Qualey said. “Most places tend not to do that at the undergraduate level. I think the students that go through our program appreciate that.”
In a word, the reason Gardner kept returning to Hilbert’s criminal justice program is relevance.
“The programs are relevant, the courses are relevant, the material is relevant. It all works together,” he said. “Speaking with local police in the field and people at criminal justice agencies, Hilbert stays in the forefront by assisting agencies, hosting seminars and criminal justice conferences. I think they’ve developed the program so much, if you talk to anybody in the criminal justice field, criminal justice is synonymous with Hilbert. They’ve set the bar so high.
“I know Hilbert is well-respected for criminal justice, especially in Western New York.”
And while Gardner has no plans to pursue any further degrees – though he doesn’t completely rule it out – he is hoping that he can continue his association with Hilbert in the future. Inspired by his mentors, particularly Qualey, a 25-year veteran of the state police who has taught at Hilbert for more than 30 years, Gardner would revel in the opportunity to return to the college on the other side of the podium.
“My main goal in getting my master’s was to use it for the next step of possibly teaching in college,” Gardner said. “I’d like to bring some of my experience and knowledge that I got from Hilbert into the classroom.
“Mr. Qualey was quite an inspiration. He is a great role model, and I often thought if I get in the police I would want to follow his footsteps. It would be nice to be an adjunct professor at Hilbert one of these days. If I were to get that, that would be great.”
“He definitely has a future in teaching, if that’s what he wants to do,” said Floss.
Gardner is still several years away from retiring from the state police, and after dedicating so much of his off-work hours to chasing his degrees, it might be a while before he’s ready to throw himself back in the classroom, even on a part-time basis. But a return to Hilbert would undoubtedly be a fitting move in a relationship that has intertwined the two for so long.
“I got my associate degree here, then my bachelor’s, then my master’s,” Gardner said. “That’s how much Hilbert has grown. And I’ve kind of grown with the college.”
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FACULTY/STAFFNOTES
Faculty / Staff News and NotesPRESIDENT ZANE TO BE HONORED AT ST. BONAVENTUREHilbert College President Cynthia Zane is one of four people receiving honorary doctorate degrees at St. Bonaventure University’s 153rd annual Commencement Exercises on Sunday, May 12, 1013.
CITIZENS OF THE MONTH Erie County Legislator Lynne Dixon chose two outstanding Hamburg residents as November’s Citizens of the Month. During the Nov. 29, 2012 session, Legislator Dixon presented a proclamation to Walter and Mary Iwanenko in recognition of the countless hours they have given to the community through various endeavors. Dr. Walter Iwanenko is Dean of Graduate Studies and professor of Public Administration at Hilbert College.
ERNST RECEIVES DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDFor his service as Executive Director of the College English Association (CEA), Charles Ernst was the recipient of the Joe D. Thomas CEA Distinguished Service Award presented at the 44th Annual Conference, April 5, 2013, Savannah, Ga. Ernst is a Professor of English and Director of the Center for Excellence in Learning at Hilbert College.
HILBERT'S CONNECTION TO 710 MAIN THEATREHilbert Professor Taylor Doherty directs Cyrano, part of the first full season at 710 Main Theatre since the former Studio Arena Theatre opened in Sept. 2012. Cyrano is slated to run in February 2014.
QUALEY HONORED BY BELL HELICOPTERBell Helicopter recognized the New York State Police for their rescue efforts during Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, including Hilbert College alum and adjunct professor Richard Qualey.
NEW HIRES (since Jan. 1)• Hanah Saleh, Help Desk Manager
• Diane Hanitz, Foreign Language Adjunct
• Lenora Foote, Legal Studies Adjunct
• Gary Violanti, Accelerated Degree Programs (ADP) Adjunct
• Susanne Schofield, Part Time Desk Attendant
• Bradford Nelson, ADP Adjunct • Barbara Piazza, ADP Adjunct
• Brian Poliner, ADP Adjunct
• Matt Heidt, Public Relations and Media Coordinator
• Julie Banach, Part Time Student Finance Technician
• Justin Rogers, Director of Admissions
FACULTYSTAFFNEWS
The Western New York Coalition of Multicultural Offices in Higher Education (CMOHE) presented Dr. Tara Jabbaar-Gyambrah of Hilbert College with its Leadership Award. Jabbaar-Gyambrah, outgoing chairperson of CMOHE (2011-2013) and director of Hilbert’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, received CMOHE’s top leadership award for moving the organization forward with a vision.
CMOHE unites professionals, encourages collaboration, and fosters support for its partners. This work helps representatives fulfill their colleges’ and universities’ cross-cultural goals, while encouraging awareness and respect for pluralism. Such active involvement generates intercultural dialogue and a collaborative spirit among Western New York institutions of higher education.
Members of CMOHE hold cross-cultural positions at Buffalo State College, Canisius College, D’Youville College, Hilbert College, Medaille College, Niagara County Community College, Niagara University, SUNY Brockport, SUNY Geneseo, and the University at Buffalo.
Jabbaar-Gyambrah is an alumna of the University at Buffalo. She holds a Ph.D. in Women’s Studies, with an advanced certificate in teaching for leadership in diversity. Since 2009, she has been responsible for advancing Hilbert's co-curricular programming for student engagement, budget management, designing cultural workshops, and assisting with retention initiatives. Jabbaar-Gyambrah has served as the college's co-chair of the five-year Strategic Planning Committee
and is also a member of the Senior Leadership Academy for the Council of Independent Colleges class of 2011-2012.
The CMOHE leader has presented at several prominent c o n f e r e n c e s , including the National Conference of Race and Ethnicity in American Higher Education, Year of Ghana: International Conference & Business Forum at Kennesaw State University, National Women’s Studies Association Conference, the Policy History Conference, and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). For more information about CMOHE, contact Dr. Jabbaar-Gyambrah at [email protected]. - HC
Jabbaar-Gyambrah Receives Top Leadership Award
HC Magazine | 2013 13
Rogers Named Director of AdmissionsWNY native returns to Buffalo area
After a national search, Matt Heidt has
been named Public Relations and Media
Coordinator at Hilbert College.
“It is my pleasure to welcome Matt Heidt to
the Hilbert family,” stated Gregg Fort, Hilbert’s
Vice President for Institutional Advancement.
“Matt’s talent and experience will make an
immediate impact at Hilbert as we begin
building our new strategies around the ever-
changing landscape of higher education.”
Heidt will develop, lead, and execute a
progressive and comprehensive public and
media relations program that will incorporate
an aggressive social media strategy. Also, he
will serve as editor for the new Hilbert College
Magazine and other campus publications.
“I am extremely excited about the
opportunity at Hilbert College,” Heidt said.
“Through the leadership of Dr. Cynthia Zane, I
Heidt Named Public Relations and Media Coordinatorsee many positive innovations coming to the
college, and I look forward to being a part of
that process.”
Heidt comes to Hilbert after spending the
last eight years with the Buffalo Bills, most
recently as the Manager of Media and Radio
Services. Heidt served as the Managing Editor
of the Bills’ Game Day Program and Media
Guide. He is credited with transforming the
Bills Media Guide from a static, printed book
into a dynamic, interactive digital publication.
In addition, he coordinated the team’s
media-only website and oversaw two site
redesigns. Heidt facilitated player and coach
interview requests, oversaw a staff of ten
game day employees and managed the team’s
photo archives. He had previously served
as Media Relations Assistant and Website
Operations Assistant with the organization.
Heidt also serves as an adjunct professor
in the Master of Sport Administration
program at Canisius College, teaching sports
communication.
Prior to his time with the Bills, Heidt served
as an athletic communications assistant at
Syracuse University and a graduate assistant
for athletic communications at Canisius.
Heidt, a native of Rochester, NY, has served
on the public relations staff at Super Bowl
XLV and two NCAA Men’s Basketball
Championships (2004 Buffalo Sub-Regional
and 2005 Syracuse Regional).
Heidt received his master of science degree
from Canisius in 2004 and a bachelor’s degree
in public relations from SUNY Oswego in
2002. He currently resides in Lake View, NY
with his wife, Kristi, and two sons. - HC
After a national search, Justin Rogers has been named Director of Admissions at Hilbert College.
“Justin brings significant expertise in working with high school students and those interested in transfer options,” stated Peter Burns, Hilbert’s Vice President for Enrollment Management. “His broad knowledge of the schools and colleges in the area provide a great foundation upon which to build new admissions initiatives at Hilbert.”
Rogers has spent the last eight years at The College at Brockport, where he served as the Coordinator of Undergraduate Transfer Admission and Enrollment and the Freshmen Undergraduate Recruitment Admissions Advisor. He coordinated all transfer admissions and enrollment and was heavily involved in freshmen recruitment of the Buffalo area. Rogers
has a proven history in achieving and exceeding recruitment goals.
Rogers was instrumental in developing and implementing many new recruitment methods and initiatives, which have garnered recognition from the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students (NISTS). Rogers’ team was recognized by NISTS for Successful Transfer Enhancement Programs (STEP) Awards: Promising Practices in Multimedia or Web-based Targeted Print Publications for Online Transfer Student Open House (May 2012) and Promising Practices in Transfer Enrollment Management for Fourth Friday Transfer Visit Day Program (May 2012).
“I am very excited to have the opportunity to represent Hilbert College,” Rogers said. “I found Hilbert’s academic reputation and strategic plan extremely attractive. Also ,as a WNY native, I am excited to return to Buffalo.”
Rogers and his wife, Lindsay, are natives of Kenmore, NY. The couple has one daughter, Mia. - HC
Justin Rogers
ALUMNINEWSALUMNIASSOCIATION
14 spring
Sharon Comerford AAS ’73 works at Erie 1 Boces as the coordinator of school support.
Julie Florea AA ’73 is the owner of Room to Grow Daycare Center.
James David Reickart AA ’75 is the Vice President of PBS Consultants.
Eugenio Russi AAS ’78 serves on the board of Hispanics United of Buffalo.
Barb (Biek) Brockway BS ’83 is working as a Secretary II at Alfred State College.
Laurie (Carra) Boreanaz AAS ’81 was promoted to senior deputy counsel at Independent Health.
Susan Eubanks AAS ’82 works as an account executive for RW Publications.
Kimberly (Piazza) Janicki AAS ’85 was married on January 12, 2013 in Houston, TX to Thomas Janicki. Janicki works as a product manager for Allegro Development.
Holly Allard AAS ’97 works as an accounts receivable manager at Upstate Farms Milk Cooperative.
Ramona (Foutz) Bellavia BS ‘95 works at Towne Ford as the finance manager.
Gypsy Cady AAS ’96 works as a computer technician at NM. Paula Dubreville BS ’97 works as a teacher’s aide for Frontier Central Schools.
Todd Ehret BS ’98 was promoted to police lieutenant of the Town of Hamburg Police Department. Ehret is currently assigned as watch commander in the patrol division.
Lesley (Kuhn) Garafola BS ’97 has accepted a position as the Director of Operations with Duke Energy Law Department. Garafola was also recognized by the Council for Children's Rights with the Outstanding Volunteer
The purpose of the Hilbert College Alumni Association is to advance
the interests of the college, to develop and foster a mutually beneficial
relationship between the college and its alumni by providing educational
opportunities, social programs, services and benefits, to build ties and relationships
among alumni and students at the college, to provide alumni input on college
concerns and to link the college of today and tomorrow with its heritage of
excellence, commitment and service.
’70s
Log in to h i lber t .edu/a lumni to read add i t iona l c lass notes and to d iscover the many ways to connect wi th
o ther a lumni and the H i lber t communi ty
’80s
’90s
It is an exciting time to be a member of the Hilbert family. There are many great changes taking place and I am eager to share just a few of them with you. One very important component of our work is our ability to communicate
with you, our alumni. A new way we are doing this is through Hilbert 365, our first-ever e-newsletter. I am confident you will find this enjoyable to read, as it is filled with great information for our alumni. Read about events, new initiatives at Hilbert and the Alumni Association, alumni profiles and more. Be sure to update your email address to ensure you get this new feature. Two of our goals have continued to be to connect alumni with students and build our alumni network. We are making great progress on both of these fronts. We have created the A.S.K. Student-alumni mentoring program. Our students want to learn from us, the alumni. We would love to have more mentors in the program. If you are interested, check out http://www.hilbert.edu/alumni/ask. Secondly, Hilbert hosted alumni networking events in Charlotte, North Carolina and The Big Apple NYC. This was a great initiative to bring Hilbert alumni together to network and reminisce about their time at Hilbert in two cities. We will continue to host more of these events locally and nationally. I look forward to meeting even more of our alumni at upcoming events. Lastly, I want to thank two groups of individuals who have made all of our work possible. This year, we have a full Alumni Association Board. These folks are dedicated to Hilbert and have put in a great deal of time building our alumni network. They have been wonderful to work with, and I look forward to more successes that we can celebrate together.
Secondly, I want to thank Gregg Fort, Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and his staff, in particular, Alaina Houseknecht, who is the backbone of the alumni association. Without Alaina, we would not be able to achieve success. Thank you. My best for future success to you and yours,
Thomas McArthur '[email protected]
FROMTHEALUMNIPRESIDENT
HC Magazine | 2013 15
ALUMNINEWS
Service Award, honoring her considerable contribution of pro bono hours and her time as a custody advocate for 11 years.
Courtney Gorman AAS ’91 is a purchasing manager for Philpac Corporation.
Rachel McCabe BS ’96 is the director of Human Resources at Synacor, Inc.
Anne Austin BS ’08 earned a Master of Science degree in Accounting from SUNY Brockport in the spring of 2012. In December 2012 Austin passed her CPA exam.
Christopher Balon BS ’09 was promoted to Area Sales Manager for North American Breweries, North East, Ohio.
Teri Bass BS ’03 works as a Legal Assistant at Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon, LLP.
Mark Golden BS ’03 is the manager of Business Development Excellence at CEVA Logistics in Houston, TX.
Shawn Gourdine BS ’05 works as a NYS Trooper.
Tonya (Drilling) Gourdine BS ’08 works as an Employee and Labor Relations paralegal at Wyoming Railroad.
Amy Kipp BS ’08 works as a Fraud Analyst at Five Star Bank.
Nicole Kogut BS ‘03 became engaged on January 25, 2013 to Joseph Bonczar and the couple married on April 7, 2013 at Orchard Park Country Club.
Thomas McArthur BS ’06 was appointed to the position of Director of Constituent and Alumni Relations for the College of Arts and Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo.
Amy (Bartz) Meisner BS ’01 was promoted to assistant branch manager at Five Star Bank’s Strykersville and North Java Offices.
Sherita Pruitt BS ’05 works as a paralegal in the
Mortgage Litigation Foreclosure Department for Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon.
David Robinson BS ’06 is working as a police officer for the New York City Police Department.
Daniel Rodriguez BS ’08 graduated with his Master of Science degree from Northeastern University and now works as an investigator for the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
Jessica Rogers BS ’09 is working as a paralegal in the United States Attorney's Office.
Shannon Spratt, Esq. BS ’03 is working as an assistant attorney at the New York State Department of Labor.
Lawrence Wade BS ’03 is working as the director of operations at Perdue Family Foods.
Ashley Beeman BS ’12 works as a credit analyst at Bank of Akron.
Jamie Bigaj BA ’12 works at Cumulust Media.
Dusty Bockrath AA ’10 has been accepted by the Peace Corps in Ghana and will teach health education.
Nicole Burke BA ’10 is the owner of Hot Off The Press, LLC, a food truck and catering company.
Tina (Stover) Davis BS ’10 is working as a customer service specialist at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
Jacqueline Downey BS ’12 is working as an administrative legal assistant for the Federal
Defender’s Office in Buffalo.
Rosemarie Escalera BA ’11 is working as a stage technician at Norwegian Cruise Lines America.
Darren Haag BS ’12 works at Fisher Price.
Samantha Hahn BS ’12 is working as a Domestic Violence Case Manager for YWCA.
Jill Haier BS ’10 works as a keyboard specialist for the WNY Developmental Disabilities Service Organization.
Adam Haker BS ’12 is working as a marketing consultant at Entercom Communications.
Brittany Holdsworth BS ’12 works as a customer service representative for Geico.
Joshua Hulme BS ’11 is working as a correctional officer in New Mexico.
Cynthia (Sojda) Ludlow BS ‘10 has been named Registrar at Erie Community College, South Campus.
Lauren Lukasiewicz BS ’12 is working on her Master of Science degree in Forensic Science at Syracuse University and is expected to graduate in December 2013.
Jill Martucci BS ’12 has been hired as an assistant for the Enterprise Risk Management Team within The Bonadio Group.
Grace Modi BS ’12 was featured in the March issue of Buffalo Spree as one of the 34 most beautiful people of WNY. She gives a shout out to graduating from Hilbert College in the article.
Traci Scheuer BS’ 11 accepted a job as a trademark paralegal with Simpson and Simpson.
Jessica Seymour BS ’10 works at Tractor Supply.
Jason Shaw BS ’10 works as the Assistant Vice President, Quality Control Analyst and Training Coordinator for the Financial Intelligence and Compliance Unit at First Niagara Bank. Shaw completed his Master of Science degree in Economic Crime Management from Utica College in August 2012.
Travis Tingue BS ’10 is a teacher at Ellicottville Boces.
Ashley Twarozek BS ’10 works at Lipsitz, Green, Scime, & Cambria.
’10s
’00s
16 spring
ALUMNINEWSALUMNINEWS
Sister Felicia Szymanowski, FSSJ. AA ‘67
Howard Sommer AA ’74, March 3, 2013
Rosemarie Escalera BA ’11 welcomed a son, Jayden Noel Sotto, on November 2, 2012.
William Haas III BA ’08 and Bryana Haas, welcomed twin daughters, Hannah Joy Haas and Aliza Grace Haas, on December 10, 2012.
David Pulcini BS ’03 welcomed a daughter, Anamaria Pulcini, on December 12, 2012.
Matthew Taub BS ’07 and Angela (Hagen) Taub BS ’07, welcomed a daughter, Charlotte Olivia Taub, on December 13, 2012.
Richard Schunke BS ’01 and Shannon Schunke, welcomed a son, Ethan Richard Schunke on December 13, 2012.
Linda Potter ’06 and Josh Potter welcomed a daughter, Brooke Madison Potter, on December 14, 2012.
Jena (Squelch) Slawiak BS ‘08 and Wesley Slawiak BS ‘09, welcomed a daughter, Molly Laine Slawiak, on January 2, 2013.
Paula Rudick BS '09 and and Gary Paul Schlicht welcomed a son, Aaron Paul Schlicht, on November 12, 2012.
In Memoriam
Births
ALUMNITOOLKIT
Aaron Paul Schlicht
Jayden Noel Sotto
Hannah Joy Haas
Aliza Grace Haas
Charlotte Olivia Taub Ethan Richard Schunke Molly Laine SlawiakAnamaria Pulcini Brooke Madison Potter
Show your support for Hilbert College by downloading free wallpapers, social
media avatars, smart phone skins and more at www.hilbert.edu/alumni/
AlumniToolkit
Alumni Event News
• Hilbert College held its first alumni event in Charlotte, NC this past April. Craig Harris, Associate Vice President for Development, and Alaina Houseknecht, Engagement Officer for Alumni and Events, were on hand with the nearly 20 people who showed up for the gathering at Tavern on the Tracks. • Catholic Charities of Buffalo held its first-ever networking event at Flying Bison Brewing Company. The free event was open to all Western New York Catholic colleges and university alumni. Tim Herzog of Flying Bison provided a hands-on tour of the facility and samples of Buffalo’s leading craft beer company.
• A check for $1,057 was presented by Hilbert College Trustee Andrea Cherenzia and the Hilbert alumni listed below to support scholarships at Hilbert College. The funds were raised by the Independent Health employees who made a contribution in order “dress down” for a day at the office. Thank you for the support!
Pictured (L to R): Julie Smith (Alumni), Carrie Meyer (Alumni), Andrea Cherenzia (Trustee), Gregg Fort (VP For Institutional Advancement, Hilbert College), Josh King (Alumni), Dave Fisher (Alumni) NOT PICTURED: Laurie Boreanaz Carra (Alumni)
• Hilbert alumni participated in a WNY Alumni After Hours event for the final Bandits home game. Prior to the game, alumni gathered for a networking reception at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery. Alums enjoyed a Buffalo buffet including wings, pizza, beef on weck, loaded fries, and unlimited soda.
HC Magazine | 2013 17
FRANCISCANREFLECTIONS
18 spring
ALUMNINEWS
The Hilbert men's basketball team came up just short of their first Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) tournament title, but that does not erase the many accomplishments of this year’s squad. Hilbert finished the year with a 20-6 record — the best record in school history. The Hawks won their first ever regular-season championship and earned the right to host the AMCC’s championship weekend.
After an exhilarating — and heartbreaking — 72-69 loss to Medaille College in the AMCC semi-finals, Hawks' head coach Rob deGrandpre sat in his office and reflected on his team’s season.
“I couldn’t be prouder of those guys,” deGrandpre said.
The semi-final against Medaille on Feb. 22 was a back-and-forth affair that came down to the wire.
Hilbert cut Medaille’s lead to one, 70-69, with 24 seconds left. After a quick foul, Hilbert again found itself down by three points as it prepared one final rush. Senior Dan McFarland’s shot from distance did not fall, and the Hawks were unable to get another opportunity at the net as both teams scrambled for the loose ball in the final seconds.
“We had a lot of goals during the course of the year, from
academics to how we play our opponents and what we like to do on the floor and how we emphasize playing together,” deGrandpre said. “The only goal that wasn’t met was being in (the championship game). So I think we’ve accomplished a lot. There’s nothing to be sad about. Just keep trying.”
Following the season, deGrandpre was honored as the Coach of the Year in tht AMCC and two seniors and a rookie grabbed spots on All-Conference teams. McFarland repeated as a First Team All-Conference selection and was joined by fellow senior Anthony Hodge on the First Team. Jerame Owens earned the Co-Newcomer of the Year award and was a Third Team All-Conference selection.
deGrandpre earned his first Coach of the Year Award after 11 seasons at Hilbert. The 2012-13 Hawks earned the program’s first 20-win season and the program’s first ever No. 1 seed in the AMCC tournament. This marked the fifth season that deGrandpre led the Hawks to the Championship weekend, having earned the No. 4 seed each previous time.
McFarland helped carry the Hawks to the 20-6 season with his all-around play. The 6-foot-2 southpaw finished his senior year ranked in the Top 10 in nine statistical categories in the AMCC. He averaged 14 points (seventh) and 6.6 rebounds (seventh) along with 3.3 assists (fourth) and 1.5 steals (eighth) in the 32.7
ATHLETICSNEWS
Men's Basketball Has a Magical Season
HC Magazine | 2013 19
ALUMNINEWS
minutes of court time. Even though he was a guard, McFarland wasn’t afraid to mix it up on the boards, averaging 2.5 offensive rebounds a game (fourth in the league). McFarland led the Hawks in scoring six times while grabbing game-high rebounding honors seven times. McFarland has been named to an AMCC All-Conference team for three consecutive seasons (2012-13, 2011-12 on First Team; 2010-11 on Second Team).
Hodge, competing in his first full-season as a Hawk, turned heads all year. His quickness and tenacity drove opponents crazy as his jumping ability allowed him to elevate over defenders for good looks at the rim. Hodge and McFarland were the only players in the AMCC to rank in the Top 10 in both scoring and assists per game. Hodge led the Hawks with 16.7 points per game which was third highest in the league and his 2.8 assists per game placed him in the 10th spot in the league. He finished with .405 field goal percentage and ranked 10th with .729 free throw percentage. The 5-foot-8 guard led the Hawks in scoring 15 times but it was his quick hands and feet that gained him recognition as he led the conference with 2.5 steals per game and averaged 30.7 minutes per game.
It did not take Owens long to become a force in the middle for Hilbert even as a freshman. By early January, he was averaging 30 minutes a game and was inserted into the starting line-up one week later. The 6-foot-7 rookie finished the season ranked second in the AMCC in rebounding (8.9) and third in blocks (1.6). He finished seventh in field goal percentage (.525), 14th in steals (1.4), and 16th in scoring (11.4 points) in the league. Owens
collected 10 double-doubles, most of them late in the season when the Hawks needed his quiet but dominating presence in the middle. He had a nice touch around the hoop finishing with a .525 field goal percentage, and his most impressive shooting game was against Medaille in the AMCC semi-final game when he was 7-of-11 (.636) from the floor. Owens became the second Hilbert player to be awarded the Newcomer of the Year award. Current Hilbert guard CJ Hodge received that recognition at the conclusion of the 2010-11 season.
Sophomore guard Trevor Stark was third on the team in scoring, averaging 11.6 points per game. Stark was one of the Hawks' most accuarate three-point shooters, hitting 40.8% of his attempts. Senior Isaac Bushey averaged 7.4 points per game (fifth on the team) and 5.4 rebounds per game (third on the team).
Indeed, Hilbert will have some big holes to fill with three of their top five scorers — McFarland, Bushey and Hodge — departing, but the Hawks believe that the men’s basketball program is pointed firmly in the right direction following a season they’ll never forget.
“I think here at Hilbert now we’ve turned a corner,” assistant coach Mick Fallis said. “We’re going to be this competitive from this point forward, and it starts with setting things up so that we know there’s the Hilbert way. When you come in, you know what we’re about. We’re going to play tough defense; we’re going to get after you; we’re going to press you in the full court. This loss can’t diminish what we’ve accomplished. 20-6 is a phenomenal year. It’s something great to build upon.”
“The bar has been raised, and the other guys have to find a way to meet all the challenges that are going to come,” deGrandpre said. “And I’m very hopeful that they will. We had some recruits here (against Medaille). They saw a great game, they saw a great atmosphere … they saw Hilbert College at its best.” - HC
AMCC All-Conference Honors: Head Coach Rob deGrandpre, Coach of the Year; Jerame Owens, Co-Newcomer of the Year & Third Team All-Conference; Dan McFarland, First-Team All-Conference; and Anthony Hodge, First Team All-Conference.
Men's Basketball AMCC Regular Season Champions
ALUMNINEWS
20 spring
Athletics' News and NotesATHLETES BREAK ACADEMIC RECORDS AT HILBERT Four Hilbert College athletic teams were featured in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference Team Peak Performers List while 80 individual student-athletes were named to the Academic All-Conference team. Hilbert’s athletic department also recognizes 19 new Chi Alpha Sigma athletes who will join the nine previously inducted athletes in the New York Theta Chapter. The Team Peak Performer Award honors the team in each conference championship sport with the highest collective grade point average at the conclusion of the academic term they compete in, while an Academic All-Conference team member is an individual who has amassed a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or higher through the fall 2012 semester. The National Student-Athlete Honor Society’s Chi Alpha Sigma society admits junior or senior level student-athletes who maintain a 3.4 cumulative grade point average while displaying exemplary moral character. The women’s soccer team was a repeat winner of the Team Peak Performers, a two-year old AMCC academic initiative. The golf team as well as the men’s and women’s cross country teams gave Hilbert an edge with four of the seven programs pointing back to Hamburg. Fall sports were honored at the conclusion of the fall 2012 semester, while the winter and spring sports winners will be recognized at the conclusion of the spring 2013 academic term. How did we get here? Thanks to the Athletic Department’s Athlete Academic Monitoring Program (AAMP) which was introduced in January 2011, the Hawk athletes have responded in positive ways. AAMP is designed to help a struggling student-athlete reach his/her full potential in the classroom. Kelly Starchok, the recipient of the NCAA Women and Minority Grant Hilbert College received in June 2011, directs the program. As the Student Service Coordinator, Starchok counsels student-athletes and provides academic services based on their individual needs. Not only are the students in the program benefiting from the additional attention, but the rest of the student-athlete population has placed a greater emphasis on their academic success as well.
HILBERT COLLEGE CELEBRATES DIVISION III INTEGRATION The Hilbert College athletics department invited faculty, staff, student-athletes and senior administrators to an April 5th afternoon round-table discussion as part of an NCAA integration event designed to educate and celebrate Division III membership. A cross-section involving more than 55 individuals on the Franciscan campus shared their experiences and visions for continued success integrating their student-athletes in all phases of a collegiate experience. “The interaction among students, faculty, and staff was exceptionally rich and it was exciting to see the insights that emerged,” commented Hilbert College President Cynthia Zane. “It is my hope that we can repeat this event on an annual basis as one way to optimize student-athlete experiences at Hilbert.”
ADAM WEAVER BECOMES ALL TIME KILL LEADERAdam Weaver (Stow, OH/Archbishop Hoban) became Hilbert College’s all-time kill leader after he earned his 12th kill against SUNYIT on January 26th. The outside hitter claimed the top spot on the Hilbert’s career leaders' list only three games into his junior year. Weaver currently has 834 kills heading into his senior season.
MEN'S SOCCER QUALIFIES FOR FIRST-EVER PLAYOFF GAMEThe Hilbert men’s soccer program earned the respect of opposing teams last fall. With their 7-9-1 slate, the Hawks qualified for their first-ever AMCC playoff game. And for their efforts, six members of the program were honored by the AMCC at the conclusion of the season. Jeff Panik was voted as the AMCC Coach of the Year; Rookie Mario Williams was selected as the Newcomer of the Year and was named to the 1st Team All-Conference. Freshman Jordan Lynch and sophomore transfer Jonathan Davison were named to the 2nd Team All-Conference. Junior college transfer Michael Gee and well as senior James Knapp were named to the 3rd Team All-Conference.
ATHLETICSNEWS
The Hilbert College Athletics Department proudly honored their 2012-2013 student-athletes at its annual Athletic Awards Reception on April 29.
President Cynthia Zane’s welcoming remarks opened the evening of celebration and Hilbert’s Susan Viscomi, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, served as the program’s emcee.
Daniel McFarland, selected as this year’s senior speaker, addressed his fellow student-athletes prior to each head coach introducing their individual award winners. At the conclusion of the celebration, the McGrath Award winners were introduced and will be enshrined in the Hilbert record book.
The Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference honors student-athletes who maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher by the completion of the fall semester. Eighty-one
2013 Athletic Awards Reception Held in April athletes, a Hilbert College all-time high, were announced as members of the 2013 AMCC Academic All-Conference Team. Further, 54 of those athletes were honored as Individual Peak Performers, for carrying a 3.5 or higher cumulative GPA.
The men’s lacrosse team is an associate member of the North Eastern Athletic Conference, which announces their yearly Academic All-Conference team at the conclusion of a full academic cycle. Those athletes must achieve a 3.4 cumulative GPA to be recognized by the NEAC. A full release will follow once the NEAC team is announced in the early summer. But Hilbert would like to identify these lacrosse players who achieved a 3.2 GPA: Shaughn Irving, Sean Manning, John Pingitore, and Doug Takac.
The women’s lacrosse program, competing
2013 McGrath Award Winners Amber Grosch and James Knapp
HC Magazine | 2013 21
ALUMNINEWS
Hilbert College Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Susan Viscomi, has accepted the Director of Athletics position at SUNY Oswego.
“Sue came to Hilbert with a large task in front of her, and she became the transformative leader that our athletic department needed,” Hilbert College President Cynthia Zane said. “Her tenure has shown success both on and off the playing field and courts, culminating with Hilbert’s first AMCC men’s basketball regular-season title. I have mixed emotions as I wish Sue success in her new opportunity, but we will also miss her talents here at Hilbert.”
Under Viscomi’s guidance, one of the most significant accomplishments occurred this year when men’s basketball earned its first-ever Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference Regular Season Title. Hilbert also hosted the AMCC Men’s Basketball
Viscomi Accepts Position at SUNY OswegoTournament for the first time, bringing hundreds of visitors to the Hilbert campus. Last year, the Hawks went to the conference playoffs for the first time in men’s soccer and women's volleyball. Since Viscomi took ownership of the Hilbert program, the full-time staff has doubled in size and the athletics’ facilities have seen several upgrades providing a strong foundation for the Hawks to continue competing for conference championships. Additionally, Viscomi oversaw the addition of men’s and women’s lacrosse at Hilbert.
“I really appreciated Cynthia (Zane) giving me the opportunity to build a program,” Viscomi said. “We accomplished quite a bit in my time at Hilbert, but Cynthia’s strong advocacy for growing the athletics department was paramount to that success. Without support from the top, it would not be
possible to take those strides.” - HC Susan Viscomi served three years as Hilbert's Athletics Director.
Hilbert College announced that Professor John D’Amico will serve as Interim Director of Athletics while a national search for the college’s permanent replacement of outgoing athletics director, Sue Viscomi, is conducted this summer.
“I am pleased to announce the appointment of John D’Amico as Interim Director of Athletics,” Hilbert College President Cynthia Zane said. “John’s role will be vital to maintaining and guiding the athletics department into and through the summer months.”
D'Amico Named Interim Director of AthleticsD’Amico joined Hilbert’s business faculty
in 1994 and currently presides as President of the Faculty Senate. He has also served as the faculty advisor to the men’s soccer team and the ski club.
“I am excited to serve in this role,” D’Amico said. “I can’t thank President Zane enough for this opportunity. I have always enjoyed my involvement with the athletics department and this provides me the opportunity to be engaged and immersed in the day-to-day
operations.” - HC
Hilbert business professor John D'Amico
as an independent institution in its inaugural season, does not have a conference academic standard to meet. These student-athletes met the same 3.2 GPA: Rachael Bergman, Shannon Campbell, Harley Decker, Caitlyn Jacob, Kelly Mandell, and Chantelle Mikolajczak.
A special acknowledgment was announced for the following student-athletes who earned a perfect 4.0 in the fall semester: John Babosci, Robbi Bailey, Scott Cvetkovski, Caitlyn Jacob, Fred Sickau, Stephanie Smith and Natalie Whitman.
Hilbert’s newest members of Chi Alpha Sigma New York Theta Chapter were announced. This National College Athlete Honor Society recognizes junior and senior student-athletes who carry a GPA of 3.4 or higher and exhibit good moral character.
These 16 juniors were awarded a certificate and a medal of honor: John Babocsi, Amber Bailey, Robbi Bailey, Shannon Ellis, Michael Gee, Jonathan Monheim, Joe Pernick, Chelsea Reischuck, Julie Rouleau, Sarah Schmidt, Eliza Stringham, Doug Takac, Adam Weaver, Justin Welliver, Natalie Whitman and Matt Williams. Four seniors were awarded a certificate and a medal of honor: Clinton Brown, Caitlyn Jacob, Kyle Kriegbaum, Ryan Tofil.
Head coaches of each program took a few moments to recap their team’s season and to announce each squad’s 2012-13 award recipients (complete list on page 22).
The evening concluded with the presentation of the 2013 McGrath Award winners, Amber Grosch and James Knapp. This prestigious award is provided by Francis and Marie
McGrath, two generous benefactors of Hilbert College who stipulate the award be given to one female and one male graduating student-athlete who has demonstrated exemplary achievement both academically and athletically. Grosch is graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice after representing the royal in white for all four years on the soccer, the basketball and the softball teams while maintaining a 3.84 cumulative grade point average. Knapp will graduate with a degree in Forensic Science/Crime Scene Investigation after competing all four years on the soccer team and all three seasons in the Division III lacrosse program. Knapp carried a 3.76 into his final semester at
Hilbert. - HC
22 spring
FRANCISCANREFLECTIONS
22 spring
Renovations to St. Clare ChapelSt. Clare Chapel located in Bogel Hall underwent some renovations earlier this year.
The renovations include new carpet and fresh paint.
FRANCISCANFOOTPRINTS
Athletics Team AwardsBaseballHead Coach Jim PernickMost Valuable: Chris HoakMost Improved: Tony MarraCoaches Award: Paul Wujek
Basketball, MenHead Coach Rob deGrandpreMost Valuable: Anthony HodgeMost Improved: Trevor StarkCoaches Award: Ryan Brewster
Basketball, WomenHead Coach Rob PetersonMost Valuable: Natalie WhitmanMost Improved: Kateland BallCoaches Award: Amber Grosch
Cross Country, MenHead Coach Geoff BrungerMost Valuable: Matt WilliamsMost Improved: Joshua WalczukCoaches Award: Andrew Cartaginese
Cross Country, WomenHead Coach Geoff BrunerMost Valuable: Shannon EllisMost Improved: Kayla LansberryCoaches Award: Kateland Ball
GolfHead Coach Andy DvornskiMost Valuable: Ryan RatajczakMost Improved: Gary GaweraCoaches Award: Ryan Tofil Lacrosse, MenHead Coach Rick SchunkeMost Valuable: Sean PurtillMost Improved: Adam McCulleCoaches Award: James Knapp
Lacrosse, WomenHead Coach Erin RobsonMost Valuable: Sarah LorussoMost Improved: Shannon CampbellCoaches Award: Meghan Stewart
Soccer, MenHead Coach Jeff PanikMost Valuable: Mario WilliamsMost Improved: Matt SaxtonCoaches Award: James Knapp
Soccer, WomenHead Coach Kelly StarchokMost Valuable: Nicole BlairMost Improved: Maria DelmonacoCoaches Award: Mary Mabon
SoftballHead Coach Lisa BakerMost Valuable: Natalie WhitmanMost Improved: Erin SmithCoaches Award: Katie Pettis
Volleyball, MenHead Coach Bill SchultzMost Valuable: Adam WeaverMost Improved: Andrew DuncanCoaches Award: David Mellerski
Volleyball, WomenHead Coach Amanda LogueMost Valuable: Allegra JohnsonMost Improved: Chelsea AdamskiCoaches Award: Rachel Kwiatkowski
FRANCISCAN VALUES
Compassion
Hope
Integrity
Joy
Peace
Respect
Service
Vision
Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. St. Francis of Assisi
FRANCISCANREFLECTIONSThank you, Kathleen Kazmierczakfor your support of student success both personally and professionally.
For almost ten years, Kathleen Kazmierczak has been one of Hilbert College’s biggest fans. Kathleen can always be seen on campus with a big smile and a care for all of those around her, regardless if she knows them or not. As a member of our maintenance staff, Kathleen always goes the extra mile by providing little niceties like Bath and Body Works soap in the bathrooms out of her own budget. She also is a wonderful representative of our donors having supported Hilbert with her time, talent and treasure since her arrival almost a decade ago.
According to Kathleen, “My son is a graduate of Hilbert College with a criminal justice degree. I would like to see future students receive the excellent education and opportunities that he was given.” She has played a big role in supporting our students through scholarship funding and by inspiring her peers to do the same as past co-chair of the faculty staff campaign. She is also a big supporter of our athletes and speaks so proudly of their accomplishments both “on and off the court.” Kathleen is a solid example of servant leadership and we are grateful for all that she does as a member of the Hilbert family.
For more information on ways that you can support Hilbert students:Craig HarrisAssociate Vice President for [email protected]
HILBERTCOLLEGE5200 South Park Ave . | Hamburg , NY 14075