BUFFALO, NY – Incoming first-year students at Canisius University will start the fall semester with a new essential tool: a MacBook Air. The university began distributing the devices on Wednesday, July 15, during New Griff Orientation, marking the launch of Canisius Computes. The new 1:1 computing initiative provides every full-time undergraduate student with a MacBook Air.
The program advances a key priority of the university’s strategic plan Answer the Call, which focuses on creating a student-centered environment and enhancing the technology infrastructure that supports an innovative learning ecosystem.
“Over the last few years, everything we have done is centered on the premise that every student has potential and deserves the opportunity to achieve it,” said Canisius President Steve Stoute. “Reliable technology is fundamental to that opportunity because it underpins every part of the academic experience – from accessing course materials to engaging with faculty and collaborating with classmates. Canisius Computes gives every student the ability to participate fully from the moment they arrive on campus.”
Canisius Computes is the latest initiative in a multi-year strategy to remove common barriers that affect students’ ability to persist and graduate – particularly those related to affordability, access, academic readiness and support. Current initiatives include:
Golden Griffin Guarantee – A commitment that if eligible students do not graduate on time, Canisius covers the cost of completing remaining required coursework for up to one additional semester.
Canisius Buffalo Promise Scholarship – Covers 100% of remaining tuition costs for eligible admitted students after federal, state and institutional aid are applied.
Canisius Complete - An inclusive access program that provides required textbooks and digital course materials to students by the first day of class.
Golisano Center for Student Success – A centralized hub for advising, success coaching, career development, writing support, peer mentoring and accessibility services.
Canisius Computes - Provides every incoming first-year student with a MacBook Air and access to essential digital tools.
Each MacBook Air is configured for academic use and supported by AppleCare+ and the university’s IT services. Students will have access to university systems, digital course materials and academic platforms from the first day of classes. After three years of continuous full-time enrollment or upon graduation, students may keep their devices, extending the value of the initiative beyond their time at Canisius. Returning undergraduate students can participate in the program at a discounted rate while supplies last.
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.
