Record Breaker

May 23, 2017

The 2017 Regents Scholarship Ball will go down in the in the books as raising the largest amount of money in the event’s 51-year-history. Nearly 600 guests helped to raise more than $190,000 for the Board of Regents Scholarship Fund. Scholarships provide funds for promising students who might not otherwise be able to take advantage of a Canisius education.

Tamara Miskovic ’17, a student from Belgrade, Serbia, who attended Canisius on a basketball scholarship, expressed her heartfelt thanks to the college community for giving her the experience of a lifetime.  “The people at Canisius are its beating heart: they are the ones who make this school so special.  Here I have met some of the most inspiring and remarkable people, both faculty and students, who have made an impact on me for the rest of my life.” 

Tamara Miskovic ’17

During the evening, President Hurley presented the 2017 Distinguished Citizen Award to Christopher H. Koch, CEO of New Era Cap. The award recognizes individuals for their contributions towards the progress of the Western New York community.  President Hurley introduced Koch as a “true champion of our community whose passion to make a difference is changing lives – and our region – for the better.”

John J. Hurley, right, presents the Distinguished Citizen Award to Christopher H. Koch, center. To the left is Deborah A. DiMatteo MBA ’88, chair of the Board of Regents.

A fourth-generation Buffalonian, Koch said he is proud to run a company that is so closely linked to this city.  “Staying in Buffalo and investing in the future by preserving our history, strengthening our education and inspiring the people of this community was and continues to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

Members of the Alumni Board gather at the Regents Ball. From L-R: Ellen Musialowski '08, Christopher Urban '07, Pauline Will '93, David Wagner '00, Judy Bassanello '83, Polly Quinlan Klapper '82 and Nick Fiume '01.

The event was held on Saturday, May 6 at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo.

Watch a highlight video, listen to Tamara’s remarks, and enjoy a photo gallery from this year’s gala.