Buffalo, NY - Canisius had just put the finishing touches on plans for Canisius 150: A Blue & Gold Gala, when Covid-19 cast a pall on the event intended to commemorate the college’s sesquicentennial. By late March, Canisius made the difficult but judicious decision to cancel the affair, which was certain to be a celebration-of-celebrations, including a performance by Grammy Award nominee Tony Orlando.
Although alumni and friends were unable to gather in their blue-and-gold best, the commitment to this effort stood strong. Under the leadership of Blue & Gold Gala co-chairs Timothy P. Balkin ’81 and Michael G. Christiano ’83, and the entire gala committee, guests and event sponsors generously donated back more than $145,000 to Canisius. These funds helped provide tuition assistance and scholarships for students, and supported the move to distance learning during the spring semester.On behalf of Canisius University, the gala committee extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to the Blue & Gold and Presenting sponsors (listed below), and the many more individuals and organizations who contributed so generously to this event. Their munificence shines brightly on the college.
PRESENTING SPONSOR: $35,000
Independent Health
ST. IGNATIUS SPONSORS: $10,000
Catholic Health
M&T Bank
MOOG
REV. DEMSKE SPONSORS: $7,000
Bengal Machine
BlueCross BlueShield of WNY
Lawley
National Fuel
Richard '68 & Karen Penfold
Rich Products Corporation
Zenger Group