Niagara University’s Holzschuh College of Business Administration celebrated a remarkable milestone on October 4, 2026, with its 50th annual Everett W. Ockerman Recognition Brunch at the Niagara Falls Country Club. The special gathering brought together outstanding senior business students, university leadership, faculty, alumni, and honored guests to recognize academic achievement and celebrate a tradition that has inspired generations of Niagara students.
The Ockerman Recognition Brunch honors senior business students who have demonstrated exceptional academic excellence, earning a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5. This year’s honorees represented a variety of business disciplines, including accounting, economics, finance, management, marketing, and global supply chain management. Faculty members presented certificates and leather padfolios recognizing the students’ hard work, dedication, and accomplishments.
Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., president of Niagara University, opened the program with a welcome and invocation. Dr. Krieg Tidemann, associate professor of economics and associate dean for undergraduate enrollment and operations, served as emcee.
Jeff Holzschuh ’82 Shares a Message of Leadership, Curiosity, and Service
A highlight of the celebration was the keynote presentation, “The Ockerman Legacy: Transforming Lives, Inspiring Futures,” delivered by Niagara alumnus Jeffrey R. Holzschuh ’82, managing director and chairman of Morgan Stanley’s Institutional Securities Group.
Holzschuh encouraged students to make the most of their opportunities, seek leadership roles, volunteer in their communities, travel when possible, and build relationships with people whose backgrounds and perspectives differ from their own. He emphasized the importance of remaining curious, continuing to lead, and finding meaningful ways to serve others throughout their lives and careers.
Reflecting on the rapidly changing world students are preparing to enter, Holzschuh also shared an important perspective on the role of artificial intelligence. While technology continues to transform the workplace, he emphasized that human qualities—including sound judgment, character, creativity, empathy, and the ability to build relationships—remain essential.
He reminded students that success is built not only on academic achievement or technical expertise, but also on being dependable, resilient, curious, and willing to work hard.
His message offered an inspiring reminder that the foundation students build at Niagara extends well beyond graduation. The habits, values, and relationships they cultivate today will help shape their futures as professionals, leaders, and members of their communities.
Honoring a Legacy That Continues to Shape Niagara
The brunch also celebrated the enduring influence of Dr. Everett W. Ockerman, whose dedication to Niagara University helped establish a strong foundation for business education and student development.
Dr. Ockerman joined Niagara’s faculty in 1946 after serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. He served as chair of the Department of Commerce from 1953 until his retirement in 1975. During his nearly 30 years at Niagara, he taught 16 different subjects, introduced track and cross country to the University’s athletic program, and organized Niagara’s first business fraternity in 1947.
Established in 1976 in his honor, the Ockerman lecture and recognition tradition continues to celebrate academic excellence and the transformative power of education. Through the Helen K. and Everett W. Ockerman Scholarship, Dr. Ockerman’s legacy continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Niagara University students, helping support future generations as they
pursue their educational goals.
The 50th anniversary provided a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the individuals who have sustained this tradition and the countless students whose lives have been touched by it.
A Celebration of Tradition, Community, and Student Success
The program also featured Dr. Everett Ockerman: A Personal Recollection, shared by Dr. John Stranges, university professor, and “The Ockerman Tradition: Do You Want to Hear a Lecture?” presented by Dr. James Kling, associate professor retired. Their reflections offered attendees an opportunity to appreciate the history and personal connections that have helped make the Ockerman tradition such a valued part of the College’s history.
The Holzschuh College of Business Administration extends its sincere appreciation to Jeff Holzschuh for sharing his insights and encouragement with the next generation of business leaders; to Dr. John Stranges and Dr. Jim Kling for their thoughtful contributions and reflections; and to the Janan family for joining the University in celebrating this special 50th anniversary occasion.
Special recognition goes to the senior honorees, whose academic accomplishments reflect their commitment, perseverance, and dedication to excellence. Their achievements are a source of pride for the College, and the University looks forward to seeing the contributions they will make in their professions and communities.
Dean Reflects on 50 Years of the Ockerman Tradition
Dr. Mark Frascatore, dean of the Holzschuh College of Business Administration, reflected on the significance of the milestone and the generations of Purple Eagles who have helped shape the tradition.
“The Ockerman Award has always been about more than one morning. It connects generations of Niagara business students, and today we saw that legacy in the room: past recipients, longtime faculty, and the people who helped build this tradition, all celebrating alongside our honorees. To our students and their families: we’re proud of you, and we can’t wait to see what you do next.”
As the Holzschuh College of Business Administration celebrates 50 years of the Ockerman Recognition Brunch, the event remains a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing achievement, investing in students, and carrying forward a legacy of service and opportunity.
Congratulations to our outstanding senior honorees and thank you to everyone who helped make the 50th Ockerman Recognition Brunch a memorable celebration of Niagara University’s enduring commitment to student success.
