Buffalo, NY - Canisius University is the recipient of a $1 million capital grant through the New York State Higher Education Capital Matching Grant Program (HECap). The university will use the grant to construct and equip a Student Success Center in the Andrew L. Bouwhuis, SJ, Library. Work on the new center is slated to begin in September 2024.
“Canisius University is deeply appreciative of being selected as a HECap grant recipient,” says President Steve K. Stoute. “Student success and engagement are central pillars of our strategic plan, Answer the Call, and this funding will enable the university to establish a multifaceted support center, dedicated to enhancing the academic, social and professional development of our students.”
The Student Success Center is a comprehensive initiative aimed at strengthening and centralizing student support services to meet the diverse needs of today’s students. It will integrate three distinct areas of student development: the Academic Achievement Team, which provides advisement to first-year students, undecided students and student athletes; the Career Development Team, which assists students in career counseling, resume and cover letter writing, and job and internship searches; and the Student Accessibility Services Team, which provides accommodations for students with disabilities.
Additionally, the Student Success Center will be home to Canisius Cares, which connects students to external emotional and social support services as well as veterans’ services. The university’s Academic Mentoring Center will also be housed within the center.
“The Covid-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for high school and college students, which continue to impact their academic performance, social and emotional well-being and overall success,” notes Harold Fields, EdD, vice president for student affairs and dean of students. “The Student Success Center will enhance Canisius’ ability to provide the necessary support, resources and flexibility to help them overcome these challenges and thrive in their academic pursuits.”
New York State’s HECap Program awards matching capital grants to colleges and universities for the design, acquisition, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation of facilities that enhance programmatic offerings or student life. Institutions that receive grants are required to invest at least $3 of their own funds for every $1 of state funds received.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
