Dr. Cheryl Nosek, Sister Nancy Zelma, Awa Cisse, President Gary A. Olson, First Lady Dr. Lynn Worsham, John Yurtchuk, Dr. Jay Wendland, and Kate Hammer
The spirit of Daemen University echoed across campus Thursday morning with the ceremonial ringing of the Founders Bell during the university’s annual Founders Celebration.
Seven distinguished members of Daemen’s community, including Sister Nancy Zelma, representing the Sisters of St. Francis who founded the college; John Yurtchuk, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Kate Hammer, ‘06, representing Daemen alums; Awa Cisse, Student Government President; Dr. Jay Wendland, Faculty Senate President; Dr. Cheryl Nosek, representing the Faculty Emeriti; and Daemen University’s First Lady, Dr. Lynn Worsham, joined President Gary A. Olson to ring the bell and commemorate the university’s 77 years of academic excellence.
Kim Pagano, ‘08; David Forstadt, ‘06; President Gary A. Olson; Shelby Janczyk, ‘18; Melodie Baker, ‘09; Brian Pettit, ‘99
In addition, students, faculty, and staff had the opportunity to sign up to ring the bell.
The celebration continued Thursday evening with the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Awards, honoring five exceptional graduates who exemplify Daemen’s values.
This year’s honorees included Shelby Janczyk, ‘18, Graduate of the Last Decade (GOLD); Melodie Baker, ‘09, Advancement in Career; Kim Pagano, ‘08, Dedication to the University; David Forstadt, ‘06, Outstanding Service to the Community; and Brian Pettit, ‘99, Distinguished Alumni.
On Friday evening, the Daemen Gala, the university’s annual scholarship fundraiser, honored philanthropist Mary Wilson with its 2024 Community Excellence Award, and celebrated the generosity and support of Daemen alumni, corporate sponsors, and friends of the university.
Additional Founders Celebration festivities included a photo contest of the fountain in Saffrin Public Square, a door decorating contest, and campus events throughout the week for students, alumni, family, and friends to enjoy.