For Robert Mages ’05, nursing has always been about serving others. Today, he works as the Nurse Manager at the Mercy Ambulatory Care Center and recently earned his master’s degree from Western Governors University (WGU), but his journey began years ago as an EMT and volunteer firefighter.

Robert’s passion for emergency medicine was shaped by both personal inspiration and professional experience. Having admired a family member who worked as a nurse, he decided to pursue a nursing education. Although he paused his studies for several years while pursuing a career in information technology, his commitment to healthcare never faded. He returned to Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ and completed his nursing degree in 2005.

Robert has worked in numerous departments and hospitals throughout Western New York over the course of his healthcare career. For nearly two decades, he has been part of the Catholic Health System. Robert has gained valuable experience across a variety of healthcare settings while continuing to pursue his passion for emergency medicine. Throughout his career, he has also served as a mentor and leader to colleagues, helping to support and develop the next generation of healthcare professionals.

His connection to Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ runs deep. Robert chose the College because his grandparents had friends involved with the Church and the Sisters of Mercy, creating an early familiarity with Ä¢¹½´«Ã½’s mission and values. The relationships he built as a student remain important today, and he still keeps in touch with a close group of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ friends.

One of Rob’s proudest accomplishments came in 2026 when he was honored by the Professional Nurses Association of Western New York as a Nurse of Distinction. While receiving the award was a special moment, he was especially moved by the letters of recommendation his colleagues submitted.

When reflecting on his time at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, one faculty member stands out. Psychology professor Mike Slyder made a lasting impression by keeping his classes engaging, relatable, and fun.

Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ remains a family tradition for the Mages family. Robert’s wife, Angela Broughton ’16, works at Mercy Hospital, and his daughter, Tiffany Howell (Hubert) ’16, lives in South Carolina. Both are proud Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ alumni, continuing the family’s connection to the College and its mission of preparing graduates for careers of achievement and lives of purpose.

The post November Alumni Spotlight: Robert Mages ’05 appeared first on Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

“While working full-time and raising my family, I attended Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ during the COVID-19 pandemic.  While balancing the demands of work, school, and motherhood, I wanted to set an example for my children that it is never too late to pursue your dreams. I graduated in 2023 from the Medical Assistant program with my Associate’s Degree in Applied Science.

After graduating, I began my career at Highgate Medical Group as a Medical Assistant. I started off as a Medical Assistant. After just one year, I was promoted to Medical Reception Supervisor. In this leadership role, I oversee front-office operations while continuing to support exceptional patient care and help those around me. I also help teach the Medical Assistant program at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½. I enjoy this very much as I am now helping students who sit where I once sat to gain the knowledge and complete their college career. 

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for my time at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, and I am very honored to be one of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½’s Alumni! Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ will always hold a special place with me. I truly thought I would never achieve the goals I had set. But because of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, I was able to do this!”

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Nick was recognized as Ä¢¹½´«Ã½’s 2026 Outstanding Student at our signature fundraising event, the Spring Soirée, this past April. Following his graduation in May, Nick transitioned from student intern to full-time employee at Buffalo General Medical Center.

Today, Nick is putting the knowledge and skills he gained during his time at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ into practice every day. He enjoys working directly with patients and making a difference in their care while continuing to grow professionally in the field he is passionate about.

Congratulations, Nick, on this exciting milestone. We are proud to celebrate your success and look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in your career! 

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Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ helped Joelle find her path. Today, she’s helping others find theirs.

“When I chose Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, I knew I was pursuing a career in radiologic technology, but I never imagined how much the experience would shape both my professional and personal growth. Throughout my education, the faculty created an environment where every student was supported and encouraged to succeed. As a student who utilized testing accommodations, I experienced firsthand the compassion and dedication of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½â€™s professors. They were nothing but accommodating, understanding, and genuinely invested in helping me reach my full potential. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to overcome challenges and achieve goals I once thought were out of reach.

I proudly graduated from Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ with High Distinction in 2022, earning my Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology, and also graduated with Distinction in 2022 with my Associate of Science in General Studies. In 2026, I completed my Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences, continuing the educational journey that Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ inspired me to pursue.

Today, I am the Lead X-ray and Mammography Technologist at Southtowns Radiology, where I also hold my credentials in mammography and am trained in stereotactic breast biopsy. One of the most rewarding parts of my career has been serving as a clinical instructor.I truly enjoy mentoring students, sharing my knowledge, building their confidence, and watching them develop into skilled, compassionate radiologic technologists. Seeing students grow from being nervous beginners into competent healthcare professionals is incredibly fulfilling, and I am honored to play a small role in helping shape the next generation of technologists.

In recognition of my passion for teaching, I was humbled to receive Ä¢¹½´«Ã½â€™s Part-Time Educator of the Year Award for 2025-2026. Receiving this honor from the institution that helped launch my career was especially meaningful.

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for my time at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½. The education, mentorship, and unwavering support I received prepared me not only to excel in my career but also to give back by educating future technologists. Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am proud to be one of its alumni.“

The post Summer 2026 Alumni Spotlight: Joelle Adamczyk ’22 appeared first on Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

“Before Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, I hadn’t set foot on a college campus in eight years. I truly believed college wasn’t for me—that my dream was out of reach. But something changed. I took a chance, and from the moment I applied, I was met with support, encouragement, and a community that believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.

As a first-generation college student and a mom, this journey wasn’t easy. There were long nights, tough exams, and moments of doubt. But I kept going—for my kids, for my family, and myself. Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ gave me more than an education; it gave me confidence, purpose, and a future I’m proud of.

Now, I’m stepping into the healthcare field with the skills and heart to make a difference. I’ve learned that it’s never too late to start over—and that with the right support, anything is possible.

If you’re thinking about going back to school, take the leap. Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ changed my life; it can change yours, too.”

The post Fall 2025 Alumni Spotlight: Yazmin Colon, Radiologic Technology ‘25 appeared first on Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

“From the dental field to the frontlines of healthcare, my journey to becoming a nurse wasn’t easy—but it was worth every step.

As a mom of two, balancing school, work, and family, life was a challenge. But at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, I found more than an education—I found a community that believed in me. With the support of my professors, classmates, and family, I pushed through the long nights and self-doubt to earn my degree.

I’m proud to have served as Vice President of Phi Theta Kappa and to have made the Dean’s List. But most of all, I am proud to be a Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ graduate, ready to make a difference in the lives of others.

Thank you, Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, for helping me turn my passion into purpose.”

The post Fall 2025 Alumni Spotlight: Candace Nguyen ‘24 appeared first on Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

“I’m a proud Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ alumna from the graduating classes of 2023 and 2024. I’m currently working as an MRI technologist, a role I’ve grown to love deeply.

My journey in healthcare began with Ä¢¹½´«Ã½â€™s Radiologic Technology program. Before that, I had no experience in the field, but I quickly discovered a passion for being part of patients’ lives and making a meaningful impact. While in the Rad Tech program, I worked at the front desk of a local outpatient facility and also had the opportunity to tutor first-year students at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½â€”both experiences that helped shape my path.

After graduating, I was hired as an X-ray technologist at the same outpatient facility. While working in that role, I pursued my bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½, graduating in 2024. With my injection license in hand and over a year of experience in X-ray, I was offered the chance to train in MRI—a field I’ve come to enjoy more and more each day.

My advice for any current student is don’t be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness but it is a sign of growth. Everyone needs support at times, always remember that you are not alone.

I’m incredibly grateful for the path I’ve taken and wouldn’t change a thing about my journey!”

The post Summer 2025 Alumni Spotlight: Kristen Schmitz ’23, ’24 appeared first on Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ is celebrated for its friendly atmosphere, quality education, and accessible admissions process. Paula Leszak, an alumna, clinical instructor, and current student, exemplifies the transformative power of education at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

Before her nursing career, Paula utilized her degrees in psychology and public administration in various leadership roles. She fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse by enrolling in Ä¢¹½´«Ã½’s evening AAS RN Nursing program, graduating in 2012. She then completed her MSN and obtained certifications as an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

With a background in primary care and addiction medicine, Paula is now expanding her skills by adding massage therapy to her repertoire and is set to graduate in May 2025. As a clinical instructor, she shares her knowledge and experiences with nursing students, highlighting the collaborative and nurturing environment at Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

Reflecting on her journey, Paula emphasizes the importance of Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ in shaping her career and personal growth. She encourages anyone with a desire to learn to explore Ä¢¹½´«Ã½’s programs, praising the college for its supportive community and commitment to student success.

The post Spring 2025 Alumni Spotlight: Paula Leszak, ANP, PMHNP, ’12, ’25 appeared first on Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

Congratulations to Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ Alumna, Dr. Susan Stocker ’78 on the dedication of Susan J. Stocker Hall at Kent State Ashtabula.

Dr. Stocker retired from Kent State Ashtabula in 2022 after more than 30 years of service to the university. She led the campus as Dean and Chief Administrative Officer for 21 years and was the longest-serving dean in Kent State’s history at the time of her retirement.

Dr. Stocker’s enduring legacy of compassion, service, education, and action embodies the cherished Mercy values of Catherine McAuley. The Ä¢¹½´«Ã½ community is proud to have Susan as an alumna. You can read Dr. Stocker’s full article from the or watch the recording of the .

The post Fall 2024 Alumni Spotlight: Susan J. Stocker, Ph.D. ’78 appeared first on Ä¢¹½´«Ã½.

“Since graduating, I have been on quite a journey. My required internship evolved into a full-time job while I was still in school and continued after graduation.

I secured my first HR job before graduation and began working the Monday following my graduation ceremony. Over the past ten years, I have worked in various industries such as manufacturing, law, parking, technology, and now property management, all in an HR capacity. I have been fortunate to oversee all HR functions, establish the HR department, and shape the company culture from the ground up. This journey has been exciting and impactful for all the people I have had the privilege to assist and work with.”

Congratulations Libby Kamieniarz ’15 for your Buffalo Business First 30 Under 30 award!

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