The Alumni Engagement Office sat down recently with the Buffalo-Niagara Chapter Leadership.
The team includes:
Anthony Kroese '14, President
Anne-Marie DeRusso '18, Vice President
Ashley Emery ’10, Secretary
Kate Voss '08, MSED '09, co-chair, Networking & Events
Kiley Burns '18, co-chair, Networking & Events
Tom Keefe MBA '12, Community Outreach
Ashleigh Maciejewski '15, Community Outreach
Morgan Culhane '14, co-chair, Social Media & Marketing
Kevin Heffernan '08, co-chair, Social Media & Marketing
Read on for the Q&A!
Question: What does it take to lead a Canisius University chapter?
Answer by Anthony Kroese: A Canisius University Alumni Chapter is effectively led by two things: (1) a collaborative and autonomous leadership team that fosters engagement; and (2) a synergistic relationship with the Canisius Alumni Network and Canisius University. The Canisius University Alumni Chapter serves as a beacon to guide all Canisius graduates in the local community, professional career opportunities, and all things Blue & Gold. We cannot lead our chapter without the support of our local alumni and we thank you endless for all that you do to support our mission.
Question: What is the most important support that you need from the Office of Alumni Engagement?
Answer by Anne-Marie DeRusso: Working with the Office of Alumni Engagement has made our team that much more successful. The office acts as a liaison between the chapter and the college by opening communication and offering feedback. They do a lot of behind the scenes work and I know I speak for the entire team when I say we wouldn’t be here without them. Having the support from the college allows us to dream big and know that we are supported and appreciated for the work we do.
Question: What are your plans for the coming year?
Answer by Kate Voss: Our events range from mentoring events to networking and socializing events, and even offering volunteering opportunities for alumni to better our Buffalo-Niagara community. Our events frequently feature Canisius University alumni business owners, who graciously share their successes by hosting and creating a unique experience for our alumni. Our most successful events have become annual, such as our Moondance Catamaran Cruise and The Historical Tour of Buffalo Cider Hall. The pride of Buffalo-Niagara residents for our thriving city is unrivaled, and we seek to gather alumni in innovative and comfortable places that foster connective experiences. After attending an event, each participant instantly broadens their networking circle through stimulating conversations with reconnections and new contacts.
Question: How can others get involved?
Answer by Morgan Culhane: Once a Griff, always a Griff. The support of the Canisius community continues long after you graduate. Our Chapter is about helping our local alumni connect and reconnect. As Canisius University graduates, we share a common bond. We all have a story to tell, and we want to hear yours. As a Chapter, our goal is to bring Buffalo alumni together. If you’re interested in getting involved, we encourage you to attend our social events, volunteer with us, join a committee, and reach out to us personally. And most importantly, spread the word. We are always looking to grow and diversify our community. Remember, this is our chapter. We want to know what we can do for you!
Please contact the Office of Alumni Engagement if you’re interested in getting involved with your local chapter.
