Buffalo, NY – Canisius University announced today the launch of Canisius Computes, a new 1:1 computing initiative that will provide every incoming first-year student with a MacBook Air. The initiative ensures all students have access to the same reliable technology from day one, enabling them to fully participate in coursework and campus life. Canisius Computes marks the latest initiative in a broader effort to modernize the university’s academic environment and strengthen student success.
“Our strategic plan, Answer the Call, prioritizes an innovative learning ecosystem where every student has what they need to succeed from day one,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Harold Fields, EdD. “Canisius Computes reflects that commitment – ensuring that every incoming student starts from the same place with the tools they need and the confidence that technology won’t hold them back.”
Each MacBook Air will be configured for optimal academic use and supported by Apple Care+ and the university's IT services.
“By standardizing the student computing experience, the university eliminates compatibility challenges and technology gaps that can get in the way of learning,” added Nathan Marshall, chief information officer for IT at Canisius. Standardization also ensures seamless access to university systems, digital course materials and platforms. “Devices will be ready to use from the first day of classes, with IT support available to resolve issues quickly and keep students focused on their coursework.”
After three years of continuous full-time enrollment or upon graduation, students will be able to keep the devices, extending their value into their careers or advanced study. Returning undergraduate students will have the opportunity to buy into the program at a discounted rate and while supplies last.
Canisius Computes is part of a broader series of investments by Canisius University to strengthen both the academic environment and the student experience.
The Golisano Center for Student Success, which opened March 27, 2026, centralizes critical student support services in a single, modern, purpose-built space. It features collaborative areas and dedicated zones for success coaching, career development, writing support, peer mentoring and accessibility services.
“Centralizing the university’s support services fundamentally changes how students experience support,” added Fields. “When services are scattered across campus, students tend to access only the resources they need or know about. Bringing them together in one location makes it easier for students to discover additional support more naturally and makes them more comfortable asking for help. Ultimately, we want students to see support not as a last resort but as a natural part of their Canisius experience.”
Canisius is also undertaking a multi-phase modernization of Old Main, its primary academic building, which has not seen a major renovation since the 1990s. Once complete, the initiative will transform 45,000 square feet of space, upgrading classrooms with advanced audiovisual systems, trackable cameras, wireless upgrades, interactive displays and mobile furniture. Several classrooms will become HyFlex spaces, enabling students to participate in courses in person, online in real time, or asynchronously – a flexibility that serves traditional undergraduates as well as adult learners and working professionals.
“This isn’t just new equipment in old classrooms,” said Joseph Snodgrass, assistant vice president for operations. “It’s a full infrastructure upgrade designed to support active learning, collaboration and flexibility for our students.”
Together, these investments reflect Canisius University’s commitment to building a campus where every student has the resources, space and support to succeed.
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.
