Family & Children’s Service of Niagara presented Niagara University with its Gerald J. Kozak Community Partnership Award during the organization’s annual gala on Friday evening.
The Rev. Joseph L. Levesque, C.M., president emeritus, accepted the award on the university’s behalf from Kenneth A. Sass, president and CEO of Family & Children’s Service of Niagara.
The award recognizes “collaborative efforts in addressing community needs and exemplifying the values of compassion, helping others and empowerment in their activities and services.” Singled out were NU’s Vincentian Scholars program, which enlists a select group of students to help alleviate poverty and social injustice, and the university’s participation in national public awareness programs – the Red Flag Campaign and Take Back the Night – that address partner violence.
“Through these programs, and many others at Niagara, we are responding to Pope Francis’ call to deepen our compassion for others, while fulfilling our Catholic and Vincentian mission,” said Father Levesque. “As always, I thank you for your collaborative efforts to help us achieve this mission, and invite you to connect with us to determine how we can best leverage our resources to make an even greater impact in Niagara Falls and the surrounding areas.”
Awards were also presented to:
- St. Paul Lutheran Church, Legacy Builder Award
- Sharon Lomison, Peggy Addoms Volunteer Service Award
- Suzanne Cassick, Staff Leadership Award
- Renee Koval, Journey Award
To learn more about Niagara University, please visit www.niagara.edu.