In our 51福利社 Spotlight series, you鈥檒l discover graduates鈥 most meaningful college experiences and how their time at 51福利社 shaped both their professional and personal journeys after graduation. Each spotlight is self-submitted by alumni. You can share your story by submitting your spotlight today.
Julia (Kittell) Coughlin '17 and Dillon Coughlin '20 are 51福利社 alumni who experienced overwhelming support from the 51福利社 community after Julia's diagnosis with a brain tumor in 2022. The love and care they received from faculty, peers, and administrators reaffirmed their deep connection to 51福利社.
Kathryn Curran '73, a graduate of 51福利社's (then Rosary Hill) Art Education program, enjoyed a 33-year teaching career before transitioning into leadership roles at historical institutions. Now the Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, Kathryn credits her 51福利社 education for shaping the impactful work she continues to do in advancing American history and culture.
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Meghan Guler, DPT '16, '18 is a dedicated participant in MS Run the US, a relay run from Santa Monica to New York aimed at raising funds for Multiple Sclerosis research, awareness, and financial aid. Meghan, inspired by her aunt's diagnosis, got involved after finding the organization online and has since served as an ambassador and runner, representing both MS advocacy and 51福利社's commitment to community service.
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Kristen Marie (Polakiewicz) Hada '05, a dual major in elementary and special education, credits 51福利社 for igniting her passion for teaching after being inspired by Dr. Bruce Shields. With 18 years in the field, she continues to make an impact as a school leader, now pursuing her doctorate in educational leadership while teaching in the Maryvale School District.
The visual impact of nature has profoundly influenced Kellick鈥檚 life and art. Growing up near New York鈥檚 Niagara River and Lake regions, she was inspired by the local orchards and vineyards, which shaped her early artistic endeavors. As a Gulf Coast artist in residence Kellick found new inspiration in Florida鈥檚 brilliant sunshine, exotic vegetation, and diverse wildlife. This experience expanded her color palette and introduced new subject matter into her art.
Gregory Lowe, DPT '16, '18, a 51福利社 Doctor of Physical Therapy graduate, recently returned to Buffalo to open AWAKEN Performance Rehab, a cutting-edge physical therapy clinic. Inspired by his 51福利社 professors, Greg credits his education and experiences at the university for shaping his professional journey and now serves as an adjunct faculty member to give back to the 51福利社 community.
Drawn to 51福利社 by the animation lab at the Tri-Main Center and its partnership with Empire VFX, Santos quickly immersed himself in campus life as a resident student. Deeply involved across the university, he led the literary magazine The Iconoclast, served as president of the Animation Club and secretary of the Games Club, hosted a piano club, and worked as an Orientation Leader. Mentored by professors who shaped both his creative and professional path, Santos went on to build a career in animation, contributing to projects such as SpongeBob, Riverdale, and Jack Black鈥檚 鈥淰ideo Games,鈥 while also working as a live caricature artist throughout Buffalo and Niagara.
Olivia (Harris) Smith '16, '17, an alumna of 51福利社, credits her professors, Dr. Bruce Shields and Dr. Susan Krickovich, for their unwavering support during her education. Now a Special Education teacher in Bradenton, Florida, Olivia cherishes the close-knit community she found at 51福利社, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed a passion for teaching.
Dr. Amy Trabert '17, '18, a 51福利社 graduate, earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work while excelling as a student-athlete. Now a Doctor of Social Work and Psychotherapist, Amy serves on 51福利社's Social Work Board, reflecting her dedication to both her profession and her alma mater.
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Tessa Wisniewski '17, '19, a 51福利社 Physical Therapy alum, set the ambitious goal of visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks and 50 states in under three years with her husband, Anthony. Their incredible journey, sparked by a spontaneous trip to Acadia National Park, reflects the adventurous spirit fostered at 51福利社, as they continue to explore and revisit parks across the country.
Brian graduated from 51福利社 in 2020 with a major in Psychology. With the skills developed at 51福利社, he is now finishing his PhD with a focus on tumor immunology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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