Niagara University honored Cheryl Klass and Dr. Vincent Callanan; John and Barbara Rumschik; and Dr. Keith and Nicolette Miller at its 2023 President’s Dinner, Nov. 9, 2023, at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. Proceeds from the President's Dinner benefit Niagara University's scholarship programs. This year's event raised more than $241,000 toward student scholarship assistance.
The event was hosted by the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., president of Niagara University, and co-chaired by Maryalice Demler, ’86, and Rev. Craig D. Pridgen, members of NU’s Board of Trustees. The evening included a formal program with remarks from Father Maher, along with the presentation of awards to:
Cheryl A. Klass and Dr. Vincent Callanan, who received the Ozanam Medal. A 1977 Niagara University nursing graduate, Klass embraced the university’s Vincentian values of giving back as a driver of growth and advancement through inspirational leadership at medical institutions across Western New York and the Chicago area. As current executive vice president and chief operating officer at Kaleida Health, she continues to push for the changes that positively impact the safety and welfare of those in her community. Dr. Vincent Callanan, a 1987 graduate of the University College School of Medicine in Cork, Ireland, and current medical director of pediatric otolaryngology at Oishei Children’s Hospital, similarly shared his wisdom and leadership throughout Europe and the Western New York area to create opportunities for advancements in care and treatment to those within his community.
John P., ’77, ’13 (Hon.) and Barbara L. Rumschik, who received the St. Vincent de Paul Award. As vice chairman at Arthur J. Gallagher, following his long-standing position as president of M&T Insurance Agency, John Rumschik has been a voice behind the growth of the agency which has, in turn, impacted those in the communities the agency serves. As active partners with their respective alma maters, Niagara University and Canisius University, and a multitude of charities and organizations, the Rumschiks have helped organize efforts with the intent to serve others in a way that offers hope, understanding, and love to anyone who may be in need. Their volunteered time and energy offered to schools and youth programs, churches, and hospitals, and their service on numerous boards and foundations demonstrate the impact they both have on the lives of so many.
Dr. Keith T. and Nicolette P. Miller, ’00, who received the Legacy of Service Award. A graduate of the University of Arizona, Keith Miller found a home in collegiate leadership, excelling at developing relationships that would foster multilayered personal growth for the students, and promoting innovation, productivity, and strategic planning. His efforts at numerous institutions changed the lives of generations of students, expanding their cultural and educational horizons and giving them the tools to reach their dreams. Nicolette Miller, a graduate of the University at Buffalo and Niagara University, currently works as an import export specialist. Her experience teaching international marketing, cross-cultural management, and various courses related to cultural diversity, has similarly been focused on promoting and supporting education and social relationships around the world, with a passion for the understanding and importance of global citizenship.