Funding to support college’s healthcare workforce development programs

Ģ����ý today announced it has been awarded a $200,000 grant from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Blue Fund initiative. This funding will be used toward the college’s workforce development programs, helping individuals pursue healthcare careers through skills training, certifications, clinical placements, and wraparound support services. Ģ����ý’s current programs include phlebotomy, sterile processing and distribution, EKG technician, pharmacy technician and healthcare customer services.

“Education doesn’t stop once you graduate, especially in the healthcare field, which is why Ģ����ý is committed to offering the workforce training programs that local employees demand,” said Christine Whipkey, director of workforce development, Ģ����ý. “Being recognized with this Blue Fund grant will enable us to expand our scholarship offerings and bring these crucial healthcare programs to students looking to advance their career or begin a new career path.”

Ģ����ý is one of 20 community health initiatives Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has invested $3.75 million through its Blue Fund, an initiative of the Highmark Bright Blue Futures charitable giving and community involvement program. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield launched Blue Fund in July 2018 to support organizations and initiatives that work collaboratively to address key health priorities and deliver measurable improvements in community health outcomes.

“Improving community health takes collaboration, commitment, and a shared vision for change,” said Michael Ball, vice president, Community Affairs, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. “That’s why we continue to invest in organizations that are expanding access to care, supporting families, strengthening the healthcare workforce, and addressing the root causes of poor health. Together, we’re advancing solutions that create lasting impact and help more Western New Yorkers live healthier lives.”

For more information about Ģ����ý’s healthcare workforce development offerings, visit /academics/workforce-development/.

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“Our goal at Ģ����ý is larger than passing the licensing exam – it’s preparing our nursing students to be ready to practice safely, think critically, and succeed in today’s changing healthcare environment,” said Dr. Patricia Losito, RN, MS, ANP, dean, Catherine McAuley School of Nursing at Ģ����ý. “Over the past three years, we have been intentional and consistent in creating a culture of accountability, academic excellence, clinical readiness, and continuous improvement. Earning the Elsevier Certified Program designation is significant because it provides external recognition of the measurable outcomes we have achieved in transforming our nursing program and keeping student success at the center of our efforts.”

Ģ����ý has incorporated Elsevier’s products into courses throughout its Practical Nursing and Registered Nursing academic programs. Embracing the latest in academic technologies, this tool to designed to help nursing students and educators navigate courses, prepare for the licensing exam, and transition successfully into professional nursing practice. In addition, Ģ����ý has embedded Elsevier’s evidence-based benchmarks to ensure nursing students succeed in licensing exams and graduate with the clinical judgement local healthcare employers expect.  

For information about Ģ����ý’s nursing programs, visit trocaire.edu/nursing. Spring 2027 nursing application deadline is Dec. 20.

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The initiative will help institutions strengthen programs and improve outcomes for justice-impacted learners

The Yes We Must Coalition (YWMC) has received a two-year, $248,820 grant from the ECMC Foundation to launch a collaborative initiative focused on increasing success for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students.

Eleven Yes We Must Coalition member institutions will participate in the initiative. Three institutions with established programs serving incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students will serve as exemplar facilitators: Benedict College (South Carolina), College Unbound (Rhode Island), and Mercy University (New York). These Leader Campus institutions will help lead the project by sharing effective approaches and programs currently in place to engage and support justice-impacted students.

Additional participating institutions include Ferrum College (Virginia), Heritage University (Washington), Mars Hill University (North Carolina), Metropolitan College of New York, Mount Saint Mary’s University (California), Point University (Georgia), Saint Elizabeth University (New Jersey), and Ģ����ý (New York).

The initiative will begin with an in-person gathering in Fall 2026, where experienced practitioners from the three Leader Campus institutions will share insights, resources, and proven approaches. Participants will engage in structured discussions, collaborative planning sessions, and team-based workshops designed to help institutions create actionable strategies tailored to their campuses.

Following the gathering, participants will continue their work through virtual Communities of Practice, where they will share progress, exchange ideas, and support one another as they refine and implement their plans.

All participating institutions have identified serving incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students as an important expression of their institutional missions. The Yes We Must Coalition remains the only organization dedicated specifically to supporting private, non-profit colleges and universities in advancing success in higher education for students from backgrounds of poverty. Because individuals from low-income backgrounds are disproportionately represented within the justice system, the Coalition views this initiative as a critical extension of its mission.

Nearly 2 million people are incarcerated in the United States on any given day, and roughly 600,000 people return from prison to their communities each year. People from low-income backgrounds are disproportionately represented in the justice system, and an estimated 85 percent of incarcerated adults do not hold a college degree. Expanding access to higher education for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students can improve economic mobility, strengthen communities, and support successful reentry.

“We are grateful to the ECMC Foundation for supporting this important project,” said Gloria Nemerowicz, Yes We Must Coalition President. “This initiative will help our member institutions better serve justice-impacted students and expand access to the transformative benefits of higher education for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.”

“Ģ����ý’s mission has always been centered on expanding educational opportunity for individuals whose potential may otherwise be overlooked and who have historically faced barriers to higher education,” said Joanna Hillman, Ph.D., dean of health, sciences, and general education, Ģ����ý. “Our work is just beginning and over the course of the grant, Ģ����ý will work collaboratively with Yes We Must Coalition and participating institutions to better understand the needs of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated learners, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop an action plan to guide Ģ����ý’s future efforts.”

Ģ����ý the Yes We Must Coalition
The Yes We Must Coalition is a national network of private, non-profit colleges and universities committed to increasing access, persistence, and graduation rates for students from backgrounds of poverty. Through collaboration, shared learning, and institutional innovation, the Coalition works to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in higher education.

Ģ����ý ECMC Foundation
ECMC Foundation is a national foundation whose North Star goal is to eliminate gaps in postsecondary completion by 2040. The Foundation’s mission is to improve higher education for career success among underserved populations through evidence-based innovation. ECMC Foundation makes strategic grants and program-related investments to support both nonprofit and for-profit ventures, guided by a strategic framework that aims to advance systemic change by removing barriers to postsecondary completion; building the capacity of organizations, institutions and systems; and transforming the postsecondary ecosystem. Learn more about ECMC Foundation by visiting .

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“Known for his generosity and passion for empowering students of all backgrounds, Bassam’s forward-thinking vision has made Ģ����ý a true opportunity college for the greater Buffalo community,” said Sean M. Willett, board chair, Ģ����ý. “We are certainly going to miss Bassam’s leadership, and the board remains focused on finding the right successor to tackle the continuing challenges facing higher education and to lead Ģ����ý forward for future career-minded generations.”

Dr. Deeb has served as Ģ����ý’s sixth president since 2012. During his tenure, Dr. Deeb expanded Ģ����ý’s footprint in Western New York and made it a leader in career-oriented higher education within the region, offering academic and workforce development programs in healthcare, veterinary sciences, and business.

“I’m extremely proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish over the past 14 years in terms of strategic growth of both the institution and our support for students in their pursuit of careers of achievement and lives of purpose,” said Dr. Deeb, “However, it’s time for the next chapter – both for the college and for me personally. There’s still more work to be done and it will remain business as usual at Ģ����ý throughout the search.”

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“As an opportunity college, Ģ����ý understands the financial burden for many individuals interested in pursuing a new path and the academic requirements needed to achieve their career goals,” said Jason Konesco, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Ģ����ý. “The demand for qualified nurses and veterinary technicians shows no sign of slowing down and we are committed to helping educate and train the next generation of professionals in these fields.”

This is a limited-time opportunity, with applications for both nursing and veterinary technology due by July 15, 2026 for the fall semester. To be eligible, students must meet all admissions requirements for the program. Scholarships will be prorated based on semester credit hours, with the maximum per academic year being $2,000 for nursing and $3,000 for veterinary technology. Eligible students who file for financial aid may also be considered for additional Ģ����ý grants and scholarships.

For more details and to apply, visit .

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BUFFALO, NEW YORK – March 16, 2026 – , a private, Catholic college providing a pathway for students to build careers of achievement and lives of purpose, will host its Spring Soirée on Thursday, April 23 at from 6 – 8 p.m. at The Buffalo Club, 388 Delaware Ave. This annual fundraiser, which includes a cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, and a raffle, celebrates all who empower the spirit of Ģ����ý, including honoring three deserving individuals and organizations.  

This year’s award recipients include: 

• Ģ����ý President’s Award – Goodwill of WNY This award is presented to a person, group, organization, or corporation whose partnership with Ģ����ý advances the college’s mission, vision, and Mercy values, and supports current and Ģ����ý students and alumni. Goodwill has been a vital partner, providing essential services and career pathway support that align with a shared commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to achieve meaningful employment.  

• Distinguished Alumni Award – Michele A. Ladouceur ‘01 This award recognizes a graduate who embodies Ģ����ý’s tradition of excellence and serves as an inspiring example to fellow alumni and current students. Ladouceur is chief operating officer at Heathwood Assisting Living & Memory Care and a former Ģ����ý board of trustee and alumni board member. Her professional accomplishments and steadfast commitment to Ģ����ý reflect the values the college seeks to cultivate in every graduate and underscores her deep and sustained dedication to the college’s mission. 

• Outstanding Student Award – Nicholas R. Osman ‘26 This award is presented to a current student who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and commitment to Ģ����ý. Osman is expected to graduate this year with a degree in radiologic technology. Throughout his time at Ģ����ý, Osman as served as rad tech club president where he spearheaded a highly successful bake sale to support Radiating Hope and the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. He also played a leading role in organizing the May pinning ceremony, providing outstanding support for Student Life and his graduating class.  

Proceeds from the Spring Soirée support tuition assistance for Ģ����ý students. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit trocaire.edu/alumni-and-friends/events/.  

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Ģ����ý Ģ����ý 
Founded in 1958 in Buffalo, NY by the Sisters of Mercy, Ģ����ý is a private, career-oriented Catholic college that empowers students with the resources and supportive environment needed to achieve their academic goals. The core mission is to allow each person to be a valuable contributor to the workforce needs of the community. Ģ����ý offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates and workforce development programs in healthcare, veterinary sciences, business, and technology. Ģ����ý ranks in the top one-quarter of colleges and universities for return on investment by Georgetown University and is designated as an Opportunity College and University by the Carnegie Classifications with a Higher Access, Higher Earnings classification. Visit  for more information and follow Ģ����ý on,  and . 

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, a private, Catholic college providing a pathway for students to build careers of achievement and lives of purpose, today announced the appointment of Dr. Joanna Hillman as dean for health, science, and general education. In this role, she will oversee Ģ����ý’s biology, general studies, management, healthcare management, and technology programs, and supervise the director of behavioral science.

“Joanna has been a vital member of our campus community and this promotion is well-deserved,” said Dr. Jennifer Blickwedehl, chief academic affairs officer, Ģ����ý. “This is a newly created position at Ģ����ý and Joanna’s expertise in curricular design, assessment, and online pedagogy will be invaluable as we continue to create a more holistic and integrated approach to academic life for our students.”

Dr. Hillman joined Ģ����ý in 2018 as a biology instructor and most recently was a professor of biology. Her campus leadership spans the faculty senate, the IDEA committee, and many interdepartmental projects. Dr. Hillman has also served as the Roswell Scholars program coordinator, faculty supervisor for Phi Theta Kappa, and is a member of the Middle States Steering Committee.

Dr. Hillman holds a doctorate in cellular and molecular biology from the University at Buffalo/Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from University at Albany. She resides in Eden.

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“After having various discussions with local Catholic education stakeholders, it became clear that Catholic schools, particularly at the elementary level, are facing a pressing challenge to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse student population and their families,” said Dr. Bassam Deeb, president, Ģ����ý. “As an opportunity college, we understand that sometimes our students need wrap around and support services to help them thrive along their academic pathway. This collaborative initiative will bring that support to the elementary level, to ensure students and families have earlier access to needed resources.”

Ģ����ý will lead this pilot program with the goal of supporting a thriving, cohesive, and enduring Catholic education system in the region. The initiative will provide services that align with the cultural, linguistic, and economic realities of individual communities and offer support in crisis response, grief, housing instability, mental health navigation, and more. In addition, the project will look to connect students and families with appropriate resources and seek the input of existing, successful family support centers in the local public-school sectors.

“This partnership strengthens our ability to meet students and families where they are,” said Joleen Dimitroff, superintendent of Catholic elementary schools. “We are deeply grateful to the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for its investment and to Ģ����ý for its leadership in expanding access to critical supports that help every child flourish academically, emotionally, and spiritually within our Catholic schools.”

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, one of the largest foundations in the United States and the largest foundation focused exclusively on healthcare across New York State, provides grants to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of diverse communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services.

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“Our Commission continues to reflect those who value and believe in the power of accreditation,” said Commission President Heather F. Perfetti. “We continue to see nearly 90 annually expressing interest in becoming Commissioners because of the way we center students and demonstrate a commitment to rigor and quality for our higher education community.”

Dr. Deeb joins the Commission from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, to fill an expired term. He has served as a peer evaluator for the Commission since 2012.

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) is a global institutional accreditor recognized by the United States Secretary of Education since 1952. As an accreditor and member of the regulatory triad, MSCHE assures students and the public of the educational quality for its over 500 institutions of higher education.

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, a private, Catholic college providing a pathway for students to build careers of achievement and lives of purpose, today announced the appointment of Dr. Christine Ryan, dean of student success, to the institution’s leadership council. In this new role, Dr. Ryan will help shape institutional policy, guide strategic planning, and strengthen the alignment between the academic, student, and administrative divisions.

“Christine’s passion and commitment to student success is a valuable attribute she will bring to her well-deserved appointment as a member of our leadership team,” said Jason Konesco, executive vice president, Ģ����ý. “She will be an important advocate for our students as Ģ����ý strives to be more student-centric and collaborative among our disciplines.”

With more than 25 years in higher education management, Dr. Ryan currently serves as Ģ����ý’s dean of student success overseeing student-centric wellness and student life programs that enhance student engagement, retention, and completion.

“I’m honored to join the leadership council and continue advancing our shared vision for student success,” said Ryan. “This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate on strategies that elevate our institution and empower every student to thrive.”

Dr. Ryan earned a Ph.D. in higher education administration from University at Buffalo, a master’s degree in student personnel administration from Buffalo State University, and a bachelor’s degree in international studies from West Virginia University.

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