BUFFALO, NY – The Canisius University Board of Trustees elected Brian M. Murphy ’95 chair of the institution’s governing body. Murphy will serve a three-year term, effective July 1. The Board of Trustees formulates and recommends policy to President Steve K. Stoute, JD.
“I am deeply honored to be elected chair of the Canisius University Board of Trustees,” says Murphy. “As an alumnus of this esteemed institution, my dedication runs deep and I am committed to leveraging that passion, along with my professional and community leadership experience, to uphold Canisius’ legacy while embracing opportunities for the future.”
Murphy is partner at Lawley LLC, a full-service, independent insurance agency founded 65 years ago in Buffalo, NY. He oversees the growth, service and operations of Lawley’s Employee Benefits division, which is comprised of more than 130 employees. In addition, Murphy offers consultative services to large employers, specializing in comprehensive benefits assessment, cost-control strategies, compliance and legislative guidance, self-funding across all benefit plans, and the complexities of benefits administration solutions. Murphy excels in crafting long-term strategies that yield administrative efficiencies and offer highly effective alternative benefit solutions. He is recognized for spearheading the implementation of various technology solutions at Lawley such as an online enrollment system, a benefits administration platform, and a virtual benefits communications portal.
Murphy earned a marketing degree from Canisius University in 1995 and has since remained a loyal and engaged alumnus. Most notably, he served five years (2014-19) as a member of the Canisius University Board of Regents, an advisory group to the university president. Murphy is also a past member of the Richard J. Wehle School of Business Advisory Council, served as a guest speaker for the “How to Be a Great Leader” speaker series, hosted by the university’s Center for Professional Development, and is former co-chair for the institution’s Blue & Gold Gala.
Canisius inducted Murphy into its prestigious DiGamma Honor Society in 2017 for his work in advancing the university and his exemplary service on behalf of students and alumni.
“As we hand over the reigns of leadership to Brian, I am confident in his ability to guide Canisius University into the future,” says Martin J. Berardi ’79, outgoing chair of the Board of Trustees. “His dedication to this institution and proven leadership make him the ideal choice to lead the Board, and I look forward to watching the positive impact he will undoubtedly make during his tenure.”
“I am thrilled to have Brian assume the leadership role as chair of the Board of Trustees, and I am eager to collaborate with him to accomplish the strategic goals of the university,” adds President Stoute. “Brian’s leadership in the Buffalo community and on campus, as an alumnus, will be instrumental as we work to advance the mission of Canisius University and ensure a bright future for the institution and its various constituencies.”
In addition to Murphy’s leadership at Canisius University, he lends his time and counsel to many community organizations and agencies. He is chair emeritus for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie, Niagara and the Southern Tier, a former board vice president and treasurer for ConnectLife, and a former board member for Leadership Buffalo.
Canisius University is one of 27 Jesuit colleges in the nation and the premier private college in Western New York. Canisius prepares leaders – intelligent, caring, faithful individuals – able to pursue and promote excellence in their professions, their communities and their service to humanity.
