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 Trocaire, 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 Trocaire��advances��the college’s mission, vision, and Mercy values, and supports��current and��Trocaire 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��Trocaire’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 Trocaire board of trustee and alumni board member.��Her professional accomplishments and steadfast commitment to Trocaire��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 Trocaire, 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 Trocaire students. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit trocaire.edu/alumni-and-friends/events/.  

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About 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. Trocaire offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates and workforce development programs in healthcare, veterinary sciences, business, and technology. Trocaire 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 Trocaire on,  and . 

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“Qualified veterinary technicians are needed now and the demand for these positions is only projected to increase into the future,” said Dr. Katherine Fitzgerald, dean of veterinary sciences, Ģ����ý. “We designed our program and new state-of-the-art teaching facility space to offer an optimal learning environment with plenty of hands-on opportunities for students to work with animals of all sizes and species, so our vet tech graduates are fully prepared to work in a variety of animal facilities.”

Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians, working with veterinary staff and providing treatment to animals, which can include performing tasks such as surgical preparation, anesthesia monitoring, medical equipment sterilization, radiographic procedures, diagnostic testing, medication administration, client communication and more. As the student progresses through the curriculum, their learning will be a balance of classroom, clinical experiences, and hands-on labs. Trocaire’s veterinary technician associate degree program, which is available both in-person and online, launched last year. Visit the veterinary sciences program offerings for more information.

In addition, Trocaire offers specialized training and hands-on experience in cybersecurity, data analytics, and healthcare informatics to meet the local workforce’s need for talented and specially trained tech workers. Visit the technology professions programs for more information.

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announced today that Nora OBrien-Suric, Ph.D., president of the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York, is the distinguished speaker for Trocaire’s 73^rd commencement ceremony to be held on May 13 at 7 p.m. in University at Buffalo’s Center for the Arts.

“In inviting Dr. OBrien-Suric to speak at graduation, we are recognizing her achievements and are excited to hear her perspective on the challenges and rewards in serving as a healthcare advocate,” said Dr. Bassam Deeb, president, Ģ����ý. “Since most of our students will soon be starting careers in healthcare, we look forward to her insights into the field. We know she will inspire our graduates to find their voice as they seek to live out their dreams.”

With more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy, Dr. OBrien-Suric was named the second president of the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York in 2017, a private foundation serving 16 counties in New York State. Guided by the principles of trust-based philanthropy, the Health Foundation builds strong community partnerships and engages in advocacy to advance health equity, with a focus on older adults, young children, and community capacity-building. Before joining the Health Foundation, Dr. OBrien-Suric had more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy with The John A. Hartford Foundation and The Brookdale Foundation.

Earlier in her career, Dr. OBrien-Suric collaborated with community-based organizations focused on providing services to older adults, including the New York City Department for the Aging and the Institute on Law and Rights for Older Adults. She established the position of Director of National and Internal Partnerships at the International Longevity Centre Global Alliance; and served as the vice chair of the United Nations NGO Committee on Ageing, which provided consultation to the development of the United Nations International Plan on Action on Aging in 2002. In 2021, Dr. OBrien-Suric launched a statewide campaign to advocate for a Master Plan for Aging in New York State. In 2022, Gov. Kathy Hochul initiated the plan and named Dr. OBrien-Suric to the state’s Master Plan for Aging Stakeholder Committee.

Dr. OBrien-Suric holds a doctoral degree in social welfare from Hunter College School of Social Work, a master’s degree in gerontology from the California State University at Dominguez Hills, and a certificate in geriatric mental health counseling from the University of Southern California Davis School.

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Fundraiser honors community leaders and funds student tuition

Ģ����ý’s announced today that it will host the Spring Soirée on April 24 at 6 p.m. at The Buffalo Club. This annual fundraiser, which includes a cocktail reception, live entertainment and an auction, celebrates all who empower the spirit of Trocaire, including honoring three deserving individuals and organizations. The public is invited to attend. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit .

This year’s award recipients include:

Ģ����ý President’s Award

Gerard Place: This award is presented to a person, group, organization, or corporation whose partnership with Trocaire furthers the college’s mission, vision, and Mercy values, and supports Trocaire students and alumni. Celebrating 25 years of service, Gerard Place continues to change the lives of people living in poor and underserved parts of the City of Buffalo with programs ranging from housing to education and workforce training. Trocaire partners with Gerard Place to offer certification programs that are essential to helping people break out of poverty and procure careers in healthcare. 

Distinguished Alumni Award

Bonnie Kane Lockwood ‘75: This award recognizes a graduate who serves as a positive role model to fellow alumni and current students. Lockwood is celebrating her golden anniversary of receiving her associate’s degree in radiologic technology from Trocaire, from which she was the first New York State licensed x-ray technologist in Buffalo General Hospital’s angiology department. Lockwood pursued a career in public service, holding multiple Legislative and City of Buffalo roles including as director of special projects for Congressman Brian Higgins and now serves as the director of Governor Hochul’s Western New York office.

Outstanding Student Award

Emma Westerling ‘23 ‘24 ‘25: Currently employed with General Physician Women’s Health, Westerling is expected to graduate this year with a degree in healthcare management. She is also a 2023 graduate of Trocaire’s radiologic technology program and a 2024 graduate of the college’s diagnostic medical sonography program. Throughout her time at Trocaire, Westerling has been an engaged student who has repeatedly made Dean’s list. She participates in honor societies and department initiatives while pursuing her multiple degree paths.

Proceeds from the Spring Soirée support tuition assistance for Trocaire students. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit .

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Extensive Renovation Creates State-of-the-Art Facility with Labs and Clinic

today cut the ribbon to officially open its new state of the art veterinary sciences building on Transit Road.

“Trocaire is excited to open this new facility that will allow our veterinary technician students to have both academic and practical experiences at the same location. Working hands-on with a variety of animal species is an important part of the learning required for veterinary technology students,” said Dr. Katherine Fitzgerald, dean of veterinary sciences, Ģ����ý. “Graduates of this program will have knowledge in the care and handling of animals, routine lab and clinical procedures, veterinary medical and surgical nursing, anesthesiology, and diagnostic imaging. We are setting students up for success by providing them instruction by experienced faculty and staff in a state-of-the-art facility that has the most up-to-date veterinary equipment.”

Trocaire has invested in revamping its existing 1,500 square feet of classrooms and former kitchen area at its Transit Road site and added 3,290 square feet of new dedicated veterinary sciences space to the first floor. The department features animal wards, a surgery suite and prep room, dental procedures lab, radiology, several teaching laboratories, and amenities needed for the veterinary sciences department.

“Trocaire is committed to investing in the preparation for high demand careers and we are so excited to offer this veterinary sciences program. Our new learning space offers students the chance to have hands-on experience, so they are prepared for the essential job tasks including conducting lab tests, preparing patients for surgery, administering medications, and assisting with surgical procedures,” said Dr. Bassam Deeb, president, Ģ����ý. “The growth rate in this field should produce about 20,700 new openings nationwide from 2022 to 2032. This ensures graduates will discover a promising career.”

In November 2024, Trocaire announced a partnership between its veterinary sciences department and the SPCA Serving Erie County. The surgery suite will be used for surgeries and services like spays and neuters for shelter pets. Trocaire students under faculty direction will perform procedures while learning the essentials of the operating room and lessening the surgical population at the SPCA’s Gacioch Teaching Hospital and Infirmary.

For more information on Trocaire’s veterinary sciences programs, which include veterinary technology and veterinary assisting, visit trocaire.edu/academics/veterinary-sciences/.

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announced today that Joyce Markiewicz, president and CEO of Catholic Health, will be the distinguished speaker for Trocaire’s 72nd commencement on Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. at the University at Buffalo Center for the Arts.
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A registered nurse and veteran healthcare executive with more than 30 years of clinical and administrative experience, Markiewicz’s career spans from caring for patients at the bedside to leading a $1.5 billion health system.
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“Trocaire is honored to have Joyce Markiewicz address our graduates this December. As the president and CEO of Catholic Health she runs one of the largest employers in Western New York, which provides our graduates opportunities in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings available at hospitals, home care agencies, outpatient centers and medical offices across the health system,” said Dr. Bassam Deeb, president, Ģ����ý. “Joyce has demonstrated leadership, service, and commitment to making a lasting impact. We look forward to hearing her insights and celebrating the fall class of 2024.”
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Markiewicz began her career as a registered nurse working in hospitals in both Buffalo and Rochester before shifting her focus to home healthcare. She joined Catholic Health in 2005 as vice president of operations for home care and was soon named president and CEO of home care. After taking on other leadership roles, Markiewicz was appointed the first female president and CEO of Catholic Health in September 2023.
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A resident of Orchard Park, Markiewicz’s commitment to Western New York extends from delivering meals to the homebound to lending her time to mentoring the next generation of female leaders. She serves on the boards of Hospice Buffalo and Catholic Medical Partners.

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announced today that Stuart Angert will be the distinguished speaker for the spring commencement ceremony. Trocaire’s 71^st graduation takes place on May 14 at 7 p.m. at University at Buffalo Center for the Arts.

Angert was a founder and CEO of Remarketing Services of America, a national provider of lease portfolio services for the automotive finance industry, launched in 1991, and subsequently purchased by Daimler-Benz.

Stuart serves and has served on the boards of director and trustee for several not-for-profit organizations with a focus on academia and healthcare, both in Western New York and the Adirondacks. He is currently the chairman of the Independent Health Foundation, a Commissioner for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and acts in the capacity of judge for the finals of the New York Business Plan Competition held in Albany.

Angert is a life-long resident of Amherst.

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Ģ����ý’s annual fundraising event will honor former Congressman Brian Higgins with the President’s Award. The Trocaire is Thursday, April 25 at 6 p.m. in the Grand Aeries Ballroom of 500 Pearl. This annual gathering of Trocaire supporters includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, plated dinner, awards presentation, and entertainment. The public is invited to attend. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit . This year’s award recipients include:

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Mark Your calendars for Trocaire’s annual fundraiser – Spring Soiree!

The event will be Thursday, April 27 at 6:00 p.m. at The Forbes Theater at 500 Pearl Street. The event honors several deserving individuals and organizations with proceeds supporting tuition assistance for Trocaire students.

The event will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dessert, a short awards program and after party networking.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit .

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After the pandemic postponed Ģ����ý’s gala last year, the annual fundraising event is going virtual on Thursday, April 29 at 7 p.m. Spring Soirée is open to the entire community, and proceeds from the event directly support student tuition assistance.

In addition to featuring an online silent auction of valuable packages of giveaways from local businesses, restaurants and services, Spring Soirée celebrates the individuals and organizations that empower the spirit of Trocaire. This year’s award recipients include:

• The Distinguished Alumni Award is being given to Karen Chiantella Camacho ’96, MBA, BSN, RN-BC, CPHIMS. Following a five-year career as a bedside nurse, Karen pivoted to roles in consulting and nursing informatics. She currently works at PointClickCare as their product escalations manager, where she ensures all clinical software issues are prioritized and addressed appropriately. She is a longtime member of the Trocaire Alumni Council and is the current Council chair.

• The Ģ����ý President’s Award goes to KeyBank in partnership with the First Niagara Foundation. The organizations donated a gift of $100,000 to Trocaire in December 2019, which will be used as an endowed scholarship, providing generations of Trocaire students with the financial support they need to continue their educations uninterrupted.

• Finally, Medical Assisting graduate Amanda Gillespie will receive the Outstanding Student Award. Amanda is a United States Army veteran and served a tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2012. While enrolled at Trocaire, Amanda maintained a 4.0 GPA while also balancing a job as a medical receptionist. She graduated in May 2020 and was immediately offered a job working in a surgery center as the lead for its COVID-19 specimen collection program.

For more details on Trocaire’s Spring Soirée, including how to purchase tickets, make a donation or secure a sponsorship, please visit: .

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