The Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., president of Niagara University, is once again recognized as one of the region’s most influential leaders by Buffalo Business First. Father Maher is listed at No. 95 in the weekly newspaper’s annual “Power 250,” a list of the 250 men and women who aim to make changes and improvements in the eight-county Buffalo region. This is the 11th consecutive year Father Maher has been named to the list.
Father Maher is recognized for his ability to inspire others as an inclusive and collaborative leader. His presidency has been distinguished by academic excellence, access, and affordability, as well as a deep commitment to the economic, social, and educational development of the Western New York community and, specifically, the revitalization of the City of Niagara Falls. In addition, Father Maher has been a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus and throughout the community, done in the context of deepening the Catholic and Vincentian mission of the university.
Father Maher’s leadership to advance the academic reputation of the university has led to increased retention rates, graduation rates that are in the top 25% of four-year institutions nationwide, and elevated Niagara University’s academic profile. His commitment to providing an excellent and accessible education is reflected in Niagara’s standing as the best value in New York state and number 2 overall in U.S. News.
Joining him on the list are four Niagara University alumni: Kimberley Minkel, ’88, executive director of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority; Christopher Ross, ’82, managing partner at Lawley Insurance; Joseph Dash, ’98, owner of Dash's Market Inc.; and Joseph Ruffolo, ’78, chief executive officer of Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center.
Two members of Niagara’s Board of Trustees were also named to the list: Donna DeCarolis, president of National Fuel, and Robert Rich III, founder and president of ROAR Logistics.