Buffalo, NY - Canisius University dedicated the Scaccia Learning Commons on Thursday, August 13, honoring longtime alumnus and benefactor Carmelo A. Scaccia ’51 and his wife, Lynn, in recognition of their generous estate commitment to the university and their longstanding support of Canisius.
Located in the new Golisano Center for Student Success on the second floor of the Andrew Bouwuis, SJ, Library, the Scaccia Learning Commons reflects Carmelo Scaccia’s lifelong belief in the power of libraries to inspire learning — a connection that dates to his days as a Canisius student.
"Philanthropy is about so much more than funding programs or building spaces," said Canisius University President Steve Stoute. "It is an investment in people and in human potential. The generosity of Carm and Lynn Scaccia is creating opportunities that will directly impact our students and help them succeed - academically, professionally and personally. That is the power of philanthropy at Canisius: it strengthens our mission of forming graduates who go on to serve, lead and make a meaningful difference in their communities."
Scaccia began his career while attending Canisius, working as a mail clerk at Hens & Kelly Department Store. After earning his accounting degree in 1951, he built a distinguished career in Buffalo’s retail industry, ultimately retiring as senior vice president and chief financial officer of AM&A’s in 1994.
Throughout his life, Scaccia has remained deeply connected to Canisius. He has served his alma mater in numerous capacities, including as a member of the alumni board of directors, and is a member of the university’s DiGamma Society. He and Lynn have also demonstrated a longstanding commitment to Jesuit education through their support of both Canisius University and Canisius High School.
The Scaccia Learning Commons carries forward Carmelo’s longstanding appreciation for libraries and learning while creating a lasting legacy for generations of Canisius students who will study, collaborate and pursue their own educational journeys.
A plaque that was unveiled in the new space recognizes the couple's generosity and their lasting connection to the university. It reads:
“In recognition of the generous support of Carmelo A. ’51 & Lynn L. Scaccia. For Carm, whose lifelong love of libraries reflects his belief in their power to inspire learning, and for Lynn, the architect of his legacy, who ensured his passion would be woven into the fabric of this university for generations to come.”
The Scaccia Learning Commons is located within the Golisano Center for Student Success, a centralized hub for critical student support services including student advising, career development, accessibility services and The Writing Center. The center brings these resources together in a student-centered environment designed to help Canisius students thrive academically, professionally and personally.
