In our alumni spotlight series, learn about graduates' most meaningful experiences from college, and how 51³Ô¹ÏÍø impacted their professional and personal paths after graduation.
Julia (Kittell) Coughlin '17 and Dillon Coughlin '20
Julia (Kittell) Coughlin '17 and Dillon Coughlin '20 are 51³Ô¹ÏÍø alumni who experienced overwhelming support from the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍø.
Kathryn Curran '73
Kathryn Curran '73, a graduate of 51³Ô¹ÏÍø'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 51³Ô¹ÏÍø education for shaping the impactful work she continues to do in advancing American history and culture.
Meghan Guhler ‘16
Meghan Guhler '16 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍø's commitment to community service.
Kristen Marie (Polakiewicz) Hada '05
Kristen Marie (Polakiewicz) Hada '05, a dual major in elementary and special education, credits 51³Ô¹ÏÍø 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.
Gregory Lowe '16, '18
Dr. Gregory Lowe '16, '18, a 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Doctor of Physical Therapy graduate, recently returned to Buffalo to open AWAKEN Performance Rehab, a cutting-edge physical therapy clinic. Inspired by his 51³Ô¹ÏÍø 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍø community.
Jay Samant '09
Dr. Jay Samant '09, a 51³Ô¹ÏÍø graduate, pursued his passion for education by earning an M.S. in Special Education and a Ph.D. in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership. Now based in Colorado, Jay continues to make an impact in education, serving as Dean for Academic Affairs at the Community College of Denver, while crediting 51³Ô¹ÏÍø for building his foundational skills and passion for teaching.
Olivia (Harris) Smith '16, '17
Olivia (Harris) Smith '16, '17, an alumna of 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed a passion for teaching.
Dr. Amy Trabert '17, '18
Dr. Amy Trabert '17, '18, a 51³Ô¹ÏÍø 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍø's Social Work Board, reflecting her dedication to both her profession and her alma mater.
Tessa Wisniewski ‘17, ‘19
Tessa Wisniewski '17, '19, a 51³Ô¹ÏÍø 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, as they continue to explore and revisit parks across the country.