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 Ģ����ý 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 Ģ����ý 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 Ģ����ý’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 Ģ����ý 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 Ģ����ý, one faculty member stands out. Psychology professor Mike Slyder made a lasting impression by keeping his classes engaging, relatable, and fun.

Ģ����ý 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 Ģ����ý alumni, continuing the family’s connection to the College and its mission of preparing graduates for careers of achievement and lives of purpose.

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“While working full-time and raising my family, I attended Ģ����ý 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 Ģ����ý. 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 Ģ����ý, and I am very honored to be one of Ģ����ý’s Alumni! Ģ����ý will always hold a special place with me. I truly thought I would never achieve the goals I had set. But because of Ģ����ý, I was able to do this!”

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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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Nick was recognized as Ģ����ý’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 Ģ����ý 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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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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Ģ����ý helped Joelle find her path. Today, she’s helping others find theirs.

“When I chose Ģ����ý, 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 Ģ����ý’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 Ģ����ý 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 Ģ����ý 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 Ģ����ý’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 Ģ����ý. 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. Ģ����ý will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am proud to be one of its alumni.“

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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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Scholarship program provides both financial support and mentorship

Ģ����ý in partnership with Elderwood, announced the launch of the Elderwood-Ģ����ý iCARE Career Pathway Scholarship. This initiative represents a $150,000 annual investment by Elderwood to support up to ten employees at a time as they pursue a practical nursing (LPN), registered nursing (RN), or bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) at Ģ����ý.

“This new scholarship program is another opportunity for Ģ����ý and Elderwood to work together to help strengthen the local healthcare workforce,” said Dr. Bassam Deeb, president, Ģ����ý. “The demand for qualified nurses locally continues, and with Elderwood’s commitment to investing in its employees, this program provides financial support, mentorship, and a clear path forward for those looking to advance in their healthcare careers.”

Beyond financial support, the partnership between Ģ����ý and Elderwood provides mentorship and guidance from experienced clinical and operational leaders, as well as helping the participants successfully navigate their education and transition into advanced nursing roles. Full-time and part-time academic program opportunities are available. Employees must continue working at least 15 hours per week while enrolled at Ģ����ý and commit to one-year of employment with Elderwood upon program completion.

“We see this partnership as more than a scholarship, it’s an investment in people who are already committed to caring for others,” said Dr. Jeffrey Rubin, co-CEO of Post Acute Partners, owner of Elderwood. “When we support our employees in advancing their education and careers, we strengthen not only our workforce, but the communities we serve.” Ģ����ý is currently working with the human resources team at Elderwood to enroll eligible employees for the Fall 2026 semester.

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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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