The Supply Chain Center of Excellence at Niagara University hosted the 4th Annual Supply Management Dinner in conjunction with the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) of Western New York. The event took place on Feb. 18, 2026, featured presentations from local supply chain leaders, and offered networking opportunities.
Dr. Fernando Naranjo, director of the Center for Supply Chain Excellence, said, “The partnership between the ISM-Western New York and the Center for Supply Chain Excellence at NU, as evidenced by this remarkable Annual Dinner, is highly beneficial to our students, who connected with local and regional professionals, listened to expert speakers, and learned practical tools to address current challenges in the supply chain management field.”
John Sakalian, of Xylem, spoke about building a foundation with ISM. Robert Conti, of Philpac Corp., spoke on collaboration between buyers and sellers. The keynote speaker was Michael D. Ford, of TQM Works Consulting, who presented on successful supplier relationships and strategic sourcing. Among the audience of around 70 individuals were students from Niagara University and the University at Buffalo, faculty from Niagara University and Canisius University, and approximately 30 professionals from various industries.
Yazbeck Sarkees, faculty fellow of supply chain management, said, “Students in MGT 322 (Procurement and Supplier Management) attended the 4th Annual Supply Management Dinner, connecting classroom concepts to real-world industry practice. The event provided meaningful experiential learning and networking opportunities, allowing students to engage directly with supply chain professionals and gain firsthand insight into how strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management drive organizational success.”
Niagara University student Maria Melo said, “I found the event very valuable, especially hearing from guest speakers who shared real world experiences in supply chain and procurement. I really liked learning how industry professionals apply negotiation and supplier relationship management in their careers.”
From the student perspective, networking opportunities were a valuable part of the event. “This event gave me the opportunity to network with business professionals and gain invaluable information that books can’t teach,” said Niagara University student Alex Little.
In summation, Niagara University student Cullen McCormick said, “Overall, the event was a valuable experience that allowed me to build connections, gain industry insight, and further develop my professional interests in supply chain management.”
Thank you to the events sponsors, Kraftwerks and Minor Tech Inc..
Niagara University’s Holzschuh College of Business is AACSB accredited and offers a B.S. or minor in Supply Chain Management.
