Rev. James M. Demske '47, SJ, Society
Established in 1982, the Rev. James M. Demske ’47, S.J. Society honors all those who include the college in their estate plans. Through their foresight and generosity, members of the Rev. Demske Society help ensure the strength of Canisius University for generations to come by supporting scholarships, developing programs, enhancing campus buildings and increasing student opportunities.
His Trombone Plays On
An avid trombonist, Father Demske often delighted the Canisius University and Western New York communities with his performances. For this reason, the trombone is used as the symbol of the Demske Society and distinguishes our alumni and friends who have included Canisius in their estate plans.
Current Member List
About Rev. James Demske '47, S.J.
A fitting tribute
The society was named for the college’s 22nd president, Rev. James M. Demske, S.J., who led the college from 1966-1993. Father Demske’s steady leadership was vital to the growth and development experienced by the college during that time and helped lay the foundation for the tremendous success the college experiences today. Father Demske’s foresight and commitment to Canisius University make him a fitting namesake to the society of alumni and friends who include the college in their estate plans. Like Father Demske, members of the Demske Society help to secure an even brighter future for Canisius University, and at the same time, forever tie their legacy to the college.
Rev. Demske Society Membership Benefits
As a Rev. Demske Society member, you will enjoy:
> Special invitations to Rev. Demske Society functions and other events on campus and regionally
> A distinguished gold trombone pin, signifying your membership in the society
> Satisfaction in knowing that your planned gift will benefit many generations of Canisius University students. Your planned gift will be your legacy.
The Benefits of Gift Planning
Planned giving is a smart, structured way to endow your annual gift for generations to come, meet your philanthropic goals, and provide support to Canisius students for years beyond your lifetime. Through a variety of planned giving options, you can support Canisius’ success – while establishing a legacy, becoming an integral part of the Canisius community and providing more opportunities to continue the distinctive Canisius educational experience.
Gift planning allows you to maximize your personal, financial, and philanthropic objectives, as well as possibly minimize the after-tax cost, depending on the type of gift.
Be sure to read our Planned Giving Options at a Glance Sheet to learn more about the benefits of planned gifts and the many options that are available to help you meet your philanthropic needs and goals.
How to Become a Rev. Demske Society Member
If you are interested in learning more about planned giving at Canisius University, please contact Institutional Advancement at (716) 888-2235. A member of our team will be happy to meet individually with you to discuss your options and ensure your philanthropic goals are met.
If you have already included Canisius in your estate plans, please be sure to let us know by returning a completed Rev. Demske Society membership application. We encourage you to provide documentation, such as a copy of the pertinent provisions of your will or trust, a copy of the life insurance policy that names the college as a beneficiary, or a letter from your attorney that states that Canisius has been included in your estate plans. The specifics of your arrangements for the college will remain confidential.
Knowing your plans helps us to prepare for the future and, more importantly, allows us to express our gratitude and recognize you as our newest member of the Rev. Demske Society.