| October 1, 2007 | Vol 9. No. 4 |
Hundreds Attend Dedication of Dugan Residence Hall
Rev. Paul J. Dugan, S.J. moderator of athletics, watches as members of the Montante family unveil the name on Dugan Residence Hall.
More than 300 members of the Canisius College community joined Rev. Paul J. Dugan, S.J., moderator of athletics, for the formal dedication of Dugan Residence Hall (formerly Eastwood Hall) in his honor.
"This is all a wonderful dream," said Father Dugan, and legendary a beloved figure at the college affectionately known as "Doogs." "I thank God for all of the wonderful, loving people he has surrounded me with at Canisius College. May Dugan Residence Hall be a home of hope, friendship, spiritual and intellectual growth and racial harmony."
Edward U. Kmiec, bishop of the diocese of Buffalo, was also on hand to offer his remarks. Father Cooke offered the formal dedication prayer. The naming opportunity is a result of the Montante family's historic $5.1 million gift to the college's A Legacy of Leadership: A Campaign for Canisius College. According to Carl J. Montante 64, founder and president of Uniland Development Company, it was a unanimous family decision.
The Montante family stands near the plaque which honors the naming of Dugan Residence Hall. Left to right: Carl Jr., Wendy, Rev. Vincent M. Cooke, S.J., college president, Carol, Carl '64, Rev. Paul J. Dugan S.J., moderator of athletics, Alejandra, Michael '91 and Laura Zaepfel '86.
"We came to this conclusion because Father Dugan has really been a member of our family for the last 25 years," said Montante. "I can't thank him enough for the true joy he has spread through our lives. Perhaps more importantly, we recognize that he has brought the same joy to thousands of Canisius students throughout the years. We are all so much richer because of his generous gift of himself."
Father Dugan has served as moderator of athletics for 37 years and has been a resident of Frisch Hall for more than 30 years, where he is available to students around the clock for spiritual guidance. He also serves as moderator for the Canisius College Alumni Association and as chaplain to the Department of Public Safety.
"Father Dugan has been a big influence on our department," said Gary Everett, director of public safety. "He blesses all of our police cars, and is available to officers in need of counseling, day or night. I think it is a very fitting tribute that he is being recognized in this way, along with Fathers Bosch and Frisch."
Dugan Hall opened to students as Eastwood Hall in the beginning of the fall 2005 semester and is currently home to 270 freshman and sophomore students.
Following the dedication, guests were invited to tour Dugan Residence Hall and enjoyed a picnic reception at the Koessler Plaza behind Old Main.