When I reflect on the past year, three words come to mind: investment, growth, potential. Even in the midst of the enrollment cliff, Daemen is thriving through stable enrollment, external funding support, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the resiliency of our students. We continue to invest in the institution’s future through our mission of leadership, liberal arts, and professional excellence.
Higher education is experiencing uncertain and challenging times, but we will not let this slow our progress or optimism. The foresight of our trustees, cabinet, and faculty and staff has been instrumental in creating a sustainable future; the generosity of our donors ensures the ongoing
success of transformative initiatives; and the dedication of the Daemen community continues to strengthen our unity and purpose.
Our donors are the cornerstone of the university; without their support, we would not be able to thrive. In fact, last fall, we received the largest single gift in Daemen’s history – $5 million from B. Thomas Golisano, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Paychex founder. We were overwhelmed by his generosity.
While we implemented numerous state-of-the-art initiatives, I am particularly proud of the opening of the Timothy M. Kennedy Institute for Mobility Innovation & Technology at Villa Maria College, the completion of the Gross Anatomy Lab renovation, and the expansion of the Center for Interprofessional Learning and Simulation. These enhancements demonstrate Daemen’s commitment to ensuring a successful future for health professionals who are poised to make a profound impact on others’ well-being.
In athletics, our basketball teams shined on the court. The men’s team was ranked #1 in the country – the first Division I or II team from Western New York to receive this distinction! Both
the men’s and women’s teams were named ECC Tournament champions, and our coaching staff and athletes received prestigious awards and accolades. The unity and excitement these teams spread across campus and the basketball community was truly special to experience.
I am delighted to celebrate another successful year, and I thank each and every one of you for your unwavering support and pride in your alma mater. You left your unique mark here and you continue to carry the Daemen legacy with you.
Forever Daemen,
Gary A. Olson
President
