Annual event supporting student scholarships has raised more than $3 million since 2008
Niagara University will celebrate its 170th anniversary and present its 2026 Legacy of Service Award to Wegmans Food Markets Inc. during the university’s annual President’s Dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.
Themed “Soaring with Purpose: 170 Years of Supporting Student Success,” the event raises scholarship support for Niagara students. This year’s dinner has raised more than $250,000 to date, contributing to more than $3 million generated by the event since its inception in 2008.
“For 170 years, Niagara University has remained committed to opening doors of opportunity and helping students realize their potential, regardless of their financial circumstances,” said the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., president of Niagara University. “That commitment has always depended on a community of people and organizations who believe in the transformative power of education. The generosity celebrated this evening carries that tradition forward, ensuring that future generations of students can benefit from the same life-changing opportunities that have defined Niagara for generations.”
The Legacy of Service Award recognizes Wegmans’ longstanding commitment to community service and investment in future generations.
Wegmans’ connection to Niagara dates to 1941, when Robert B. Wegman graduated from the university. In 2007, he was inducted into the inaugural class of the Niagara Legacy — Alumni of Distinction. The Wegmans Family Foundation also contributed $1.5 million to establish the Robert B. Wegman Endowed Director of Food Industry Innovation and Supply Chain Excellence at Niagara.
The company’s commitment to education and community extends well beyond Western New York. Since 1984, Wegmans has provided more than $155 million in employee scholarships. In 2025, the company contributed $96.3 million to communities across nine states and Washington, D.C., donated 36.8 million pounds of food, and recorded more than 10,500 employee volunteer hours.
“Wegmans exemplifies what it means to be a responsible corporate citizen and a true partner in strengthening communities,” Father Maher said. “Its longstanding investment in education, commitment to the well-being of others, and extraordinary spirit of service reflect the Catholic and Vincentian values that have guided Niagara University throughout its 170-year history. We are proud to recognize the Wegmans organization and the Wegman family with this year’s Legacy of Service Award.”
Thomas J. Gallagher, ’84, and his wife, Rebecca, are chairing the 2026 President’s Dinner. Gallagher retired in 2025 after a career as a managing director at Bank of New York and serves on Niagara’s Board of Trustees.
“The scholarships supported by this event open doors of opportunity, ensuring that every student has the chance to learn, grow, and make a difference,” the Gallaghers said. “It is the same opportunity Tom was given, and one for which we will always be thankful.”
Maryalice Demler, ’86, news anchor at WGRZ-TV (Channel 2) in Buffalo, will serve as emcee.
To support the President’s Dinner Scholarship, visit niagara.edu/donate.
