Sitting at a table with her brand-new MacBook Air during New Griff Orientation, incoming business major Alyssa Ranney ’30 was already learning one of the first lessons of college life: advice is usually given for a reason.
"They told us we should have brought fans, but we didn't listen," Ranney laughed, recalling the warm day and night she and her future classmates had just spent in the residence halls.
Before heading home, Ranney and her fellow incoming students made one of the most exciting final stops of orientation: picking up their new MacBook Airs. The laptops were distributed through Canisius Computes, the university's new technology initiative that provides all full-time first-year and transfer students with the technology they need to succeed from the first day of classes.
For Ranney and fellow New Griff Orientation participants Dominic Plummer ’30 and Matthew Pittorf ‘30, the computers came with a surprise: learning that the devices would eventually become theirs. "I get to keep it?" Ranney asked after learning that students who remain enrolled full time receive ownership of their device after graduation.
Mike Yates, assistant vice president and dean of students, said the students' reactions—including Ranney's—affirmed the impact of the initiative. "Many students spent their high school years using school-issued laptops that had to be returned, so realizing they would have a computer to use throughout college—and keep after graduation—made the moment especially memorable," he said.
Plummer, an incoming biology major, experienced that transition firsthand. "My high school only let us use them in class, and we'd return them at the end of the day," he says. "I was lucky my mom had a computer I could use at home. Canisius has given us a big boost and made life easier."
For Pittorf, an incoming economics major, the 13-inch MacBook Air is his first Apple device, and he is excited to explore the new technology. "The school has made everything so convenient so far, including this," he said.
That convenience includes peace of mind for repairs too. Students receive four years of AppleCare+ coverage and no-fee repairs for covered hardware issues and certain accidental damage.
Yates said the university's investment extends well beyond the classroom. "Knowing students will have this laptop not only for the classroom but also to pursue internships, apply for jobs and begin their careers after Canisius is incredibly meaningful," he says. "It's a long-term investment by the university in their success—one that begins on the first day of classes and continues well beyond graduation."
Creating a Level Playing Field
Access to reliable technology is essential for today's college students, from completing assignments and accessing course materials to collaborating with classmates and engaging with faculty.
"Parents and students already have a lot to think about when preparing for college," said Harold Fields, EdD, vice president for student affairs. "Our goal is to take one of those decisions off the table entirely. Canisius Computes helps reduce one of the significant expenses families have traditionally faced by ensuring students have the technology they need before classes even begin."
For years, Canisius maintained a laptop lending library for students who needed temporary access to a computer. While the program helped hundreds of students, demand consistently exceeded supply.
"I saw how quickly those devices were exhausted each semester and the need to continually increase our investment to keep pace with student demand," said Fields. "We realized we could better meet the needs of all students and elevate our efforts with this one-to-one device initiative."
The lending program also highlighted another reality. "Every individual who needs resources or assistance does not always raise their hand to ask for it," Fields said. "Even as we worked hard to minimize waiting lists, we understood there were other students without devices, or using less-than-ideal ones, who would greatly benefit from Canisius Computes."
Providing students with the same technology from day one also creates a more equitable learning environment. "We often take for granted the barriers some students must overcome," Fields said. "Many students arrive at Canisius after using school-issued devices throughout high school. Purchasing a new computer is another significant expense at a time when families are already investing in a college education."
Standardizing technology also benefits the classroom experience.
"Ensuring every student is appropriately equipped gives faculty the opportunity to consider new strategies and pedagogical choices," Fields said. "Faculty who choose to integrate technology into their teaching can do so knowing every student has access to the same high-quality tools."
Supporting All Students from Day One
The impact of reliable technology is especially meaningful for students in Canisius' Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), a New York State initiative that provides academic support, counseling and financial assistance to students who demonstrate college potential but face economic or educational barriers.
"From a HEOP perspective, access to reliable technology is critical because many students already face barriers related to educational equity and financial resources," said Cavina James, associate director of the program. "Technology directly impacts a student's ability to participate fully in academics," she said. "Students may struggle academically if they don't have consistent access to a laptop, and replacing one if something happens can create significant financial stress. That stress becomes another obstacle."
While Canisius Computes is designed to benefit all eligible incoming students, James says the program can be especially transformative for HEOP students.
"Providing every student with a laptop helps ensure they have equal access to the resources they need to succeed," she said. "It also reduces financial stress, which is central to HEOP's mission of expanding educational opportunity."
Receiving a MacBook Air before classes begin also sends an important message. "Entering college can already feel overwhelming," James said. "Providing a laptop helps students begin on equal footing with their peers. It removes one more barrier, builds confidence and demonstrates from day one that Canisius is invested in their success."
Part of the Broader Answer the Call Commitment
Through Canisius Computes, the university is making a tangible investment in student success that advances the goals of Answer the Call, Canisius' strategic plan, by strengthening technology infrastructure, removing barriers and preparing students for an increasingly digital workplace.
“Canisius Computes is about more than providing a laptop,” Fields says. “It creates a more innovative learning environment while ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed in college and in their future careers.”
Ultimately, Fields says, the program represents an investment in every student's future. "Student success happens in the classroom, but it can be derailed for any number of reasons that have little to do with coursework. The message we're sending to students, and their families is that we care so deeply about your success that we're willing to invest in it—and in you—in a tangible and significant way," he said.
"We're confident that if you're admitted to Canisius, you have the potential to succeed here and beyond. Our promise is that we'll provide the tools, the support and the community you need, and then we'll watch you accomplish more than you imagined."
Canisius Computes is part of a broader university commitment to proactively support students and remove barriers to success. Other initiatives include the Golisano Center for Student Success, Canisius Complete, the Buffalo Promise Scholarship and the Golden Griffin Guarantee.
