David Forstadt, Kim Pagano, Brian Pettit, President Gary A. Olson, Damian Desbordes, Shelby Janczyk, Melodie Baker
Daemen University honored five exceptional graduates during its annual Distinguished Alumni Awards.
This year’s award recipients, selected by the Alumni Association Board of Directors, 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.
Janczyk, ‘18, holds a BFA in Graphic Design from Daemen University, and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Leadership & Innovation, Class of 2026. She serves as the assistant director of branding, design, and digital content within Daemen’s marketing and communications team, playing a vital role in shaping the university’s visual identity and storytelling.
Baker, ‘09, earned her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Quantitative Methods from the University at Buffalo in May 2023. Additionally, she holds an advanced graduate certificate in Applied Statistical Analysis, a master’s degree in Leadership & Innovation from Daemen University, and a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Buffalo State University. Baker is currently the president and founder of ImpactSTATS Inc., an organization that specializes in enhancing the social and environmental impact of organizations through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Pagano, ‘08, holds a master’s degree in Leadership & Innovation from Daemen University. She previously earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies/Public Relations from Canisius College and served as public relations director for the Herschell Carrousel Museum prior to her tenure at Daemen. Over her 32 years with Daemen, Pagano held multiple positions in enrollment management, student affairs, and as an adjunct faculty before her retirement.
Forstadt, ‘06, earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Daemen University in 2006 and completed his master’s and doctoral degrees in community mental health counseling and clinical psychology in Western New York. He is a psychotherapist with over 15 years’ experience in behavioral health, specializing in addiction, dual diagnosis, and mental health administration. Forstadt has dedicated much of his career to challenging the social stigmas surrounding addiction and mental health.
Pettit, ‘99, received the Distinguished Alumni Award for achieving distinction in his career and the community, as well as his dedication to Daemen. With over 20 years’ experience as a physical therapist, Pettit currently serves the Rochester Regional Health Care community as an in-home physical therapist. He discovered his passion for home care after working in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home care agencies. Pettit is also known for his collegiate basketball career and induction into the Daemen Basketball Hall of Fame and remains actively involved with Daemen’s basketball program and alumni events.
“We are thrilled to honor these remarkable Daemen graduates tonight,” said Kate Hammer, Associate VP for Advancement at Daemen University. “Their achievements, leadership, and commitment to excellence exemplify the spirit and values of Daemen. We are incredibly proud to celebrate the lasting impact they have made on both the university and the community.”