Student Life and Housing | Canisius University

At Canisius, learning happens everywhere—not just in the classroom. Through a vibrant network of student clubs, on-campus events, leadership opportunities, and welcoming residential communities, Student Life helps you get involved, make meaningful connections, and grow as a person.

Our goal? Our goal is to assist you in leading a purposeful and well-rounded life, both now and in the future.

Campus Life at Canisius University

From your first days on campus, you’ll discover a tight-knit community where people know your name and want you to succeed. Whether you’re living in one of our residence halls or commuting from nearby, there’s a place for you to belong and be yourself.

Student Housing

At Canisius University, your college experience isn’t just about where you learn—it’s about where you live, grow, and belong. That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on the residential experience, especially during your first two years. All first-year
and sophomore students are required to live on campus unless they commute from the home of a parent or legal guardian, because we believe the connections you make here will shape your entire college journey.

Each of our five residence halls offers a welcoming and engaging environment where you’ll form friendships, create memories, and feel part of something bigger. Whether you’re attending a movie night, studying in the lounge, or just hanging out with your floormates, your residence hall becomes more than a place to sleep—it becomes home.

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And you’re never alone in figuring it all out.

Graduate Level Hall Directors

Every residence hall is staffed with dedicated, trained student leaders—who live within the community and are there to support you. They help ensure that your living environment is safe, inclusive, and supportive. Whether you’re facing a roommate issue, looking for advice, or navigating a personal challenge, Hall Directorss are here to listen and help.

Resident Assistants

Every residence hall is staffed with dedicated, trained student leaders—who live on your floor and are there to support you. Resident Assistants help build community through programs and events, assist during times of conflict or stress, and serve as a resource when you have questions about college life. They’re mentors, connectors, and cheerleaders all in one—and they’ve been in your shoes.

Why Live On Campus?

Build close friendships with students who share your interests
Enjoy easy access to classes, dining, fitness center, counseling center, student health, and other campus resources
Participate in programs and events that support your growth
Get support from live-in Resident Assistants and professional staff
Feel part of something bigger—right from where you live
Canisius housing isn’t just where you stay—it’s where you become part of the Griff family.

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Clubs and Organizations: Engage, Explore, and Connect

Making friends and finding your place can feel overwhelming at first, but you’re not alone. At Canisius, we’re here to help you connect, belong, and thrive.

One of the best ways to get started is by exploring our 90+ student clubs and organizations. Whether you're passionate about music, service, advocacy, gaming, leadership, or something uniquely your own, there’s a space here waiting for you. And if it doesn’t exist yet? We’ll help you start it!

Getting involved on campus helps you:

Make lasting friendships with people who share your passions
Develop leadership and professional skills by running meetings, planning events, and managing projects
Explore your identity and interests in a supportive and inclusive environment
Create meaningful change through advocacy, service, and student government
Build your network—and your confidence

Feeling unsure where to begin? That’s totally normal.
Finding your community takes time, and every event you attend or new person you meet brings you one step closer. We’ll guide you along the way with in-person and virtual workshops focused on how to get involved, make friends, and create connections that matter.

From our Fall Involvement Fair to late-night events, weekend excursions, and leadership retreats, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to plug in, try new things, and make your mark.

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Commuter Life

At Canisius, commuter students are a vital part of campus life. Whether you’re arriving by car, bike, or metro, we’re committed to ensuring you feel welcome, supported, and fully connected to the Griff community.

We know that balancing home and campus life can be a unique challenge, but you don’t have to do it alone. Canisius offers a variety of resources and spaces specifically designed for commuters, helping you stay comfortable, organized, and engaged throughout your day.

Commuter Student Support at Canisius:

Free NFTA metro passes to help you get to campus easily and affordably
Lockers available in key locations so you can safely store your belongings between classes
A dedicated Commuter Lounge with comfy couches, TVs, computers, charging stations, and plenty of space to relax or catch up on work
Microwave and kitchen access so you can heat up meals or grab a snack
Commuter Student Association—a student-led group that plans events, builds community, and advocates for the commuter experience
Access to all clubs, leadership programs, and student events, just like residential students

Looking to build connections?
We encourage all commuter students to get involved from day one. Attend Welcome Week events, join a club, or stop by Student Life to learn how to connect with others. Whether you’re on campus for two hours or all day, you’re part of the Griff family—and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

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Campus Dining

At Canisius University, we believe food should fuel your body, support your well-being, and bring people together. That’s why we’ve partnered with Chartwells Higher Ed to deliver a dining experience that’s about more than just great meals—it’s about community, sustainability, and choice.

With five unique dining locations across campus—including a full-service Tim Hortons—you’ll find everything from fresh, made-to-order meals to quick snacks between classes. Whether you're fueling up for a big exam or grabbing lunch with friends, our dining team is here to serve up quality, variety, and care.

Where To Eat?

Hours of Operation

Economou Dining Hall - located in the Richard E. Winter Student Center
Tim Horton's - located in the Old Main Building next to the Bouwhuis Library
Market - located in the Old Main Building (lower level)
Blue & Gold Cafe- Smoothies, Fresh made to order Personal Pizza, Acai Bowls, Milkshakes, Ice Cream & Baked Goods
Science Cafe - Proudly serving Starbucks - located in the Science Hall building

Meal Plan Information

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Meal Swipes: Give you access to the all-you-care-to-eat Social House dining hall. They expire at the end of each semester.
Griff Bucks: Tax-free campus dining currency that rolls over from fall to spring and expires in May.
Griff Choice: Campus and select off-campus currency (including vending, bookstore, and library); taxed on dining and refunded after graduation.
Meal Exchange: Use a meal swipe to get a full meal (entrée, side, drink) at on-campus retail locations instead of the dining hall. Best for full meals, not snacks.

Purchase a Meal Plan

Visit our website to select a plan that is right for you today

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