Buffalo State University held its State of the University address for the 2023-2024 academic year Thursday, Feb 06. The address highlighted the university’s achievements over the last year, its current standing, and hopes for the future of Buffalo State.

The address opened with Dr. Bonita Durand, Buffalo State’s interim president, taking the stage. She began the speech by giving thanks to her faculty.

“I would like to begin by acknowledging my University Council,” Dr. Durand said. “To our dedicated faculty. You lead the mission of our institution, teaching our students, conducting research, applying your knowledge in service to addressing societal challenges, as well as fulfilling leadership and service roles within the university and the community. I thank you and acknowledge you for your dedication and service.”

Dr. Durand also addressed the students of Buffalo State, admiring their impact.

“I say to our students: I come to this place every day because of you,” said Dr. Durand. “You are the heart and soul of Buffalo State. Your drive, curiosity, and spirit are truly inspiring. You are the reason we do what we do, and we are committed to supporting you in your journey of lifelong learning. I am so proud of your accomplishments and look forward to seeing what the future holds for each of you.”

Following the opening statements, Dr. Durand proceeded to lay out her hopes and plans for the upcoming academic year. She reinforced the university’s mission on being an all inclusive and diverse community.

“We are deeply committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and vibrant community that facilitates the intellectual, personal, and professional growth of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni,” she said. “Our mission is not just a statement; it is a practice that we live every day. When we step into our classrooms, the student union, the library, and our athletics facilities, we see a beautiful tapestry of diversity of background, thought, and experiences reflected in our students.”

After this statement, Dr. Durand continued the address by focusing on achievements within the past academic year, emphasizing Buffalo State’s General Education program launched in 2023. Dubbing it an important part of the university’s efforts to provide a holistic education, she highlighted the wide array of subjects available, such as courses in Communication, Mathematics, and Natural Sciences.

“By designing a curriculum that offers students a broad understanding of the changing aspects of a pluralistic society, we aim to align their education with our mission of inspiring life-long learning and preparing them to thrive in a rapidly changing and interconnected world,” said Dr. Durand.

Dr. Durand also showcased student and faculty achievements over the past year. Such achievements include Shasti O’Leary, a Graphic Design faculty member, who directed a service-learning project alongside her students based off a request from the Volunteer Services Coordinator for Pediatric Care at Kaleida Health’s Highpoint Care Facility.

Another faculty achievement highlighted was Applied Guitar Instructor Evan Drummond reviving Buffalo State’s Guitar Club, which until recently had remained dormant due to the pandemic.

Acknowledgments were also issued to faculty making progress in their respective fields, which included Hermen Díaz III, an assistant professor of Higher Education Administration, who recently published a qualitative study titled “Beloved Place: A Latinx/a/o Cultural Center and Undergraduate Latino Men” in the Journal of Latinos and Education.

Elizabeth Mariani, a lecturer in the College Writing Program, who facilitated a two day conference for the National Council for the Social Studies Summer Institute was also honored in Dr. Durand’s speech.

After highlighting staff achievements, student athletic achievements were put to the forefront.

“One of the most outstanding achievements was accomplished by Buffalo State’s Men’s Soccer program,” said Dr. Durand. “They set a school record with an impressive 16 victories and finished the season ranked 16th in the nation. This extraordinary performance led them to advance to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournaments for the first time in the program’s history”

Achievements by individual students were also celebrated, with Diego Rivera and Manu Prieto recognized as first and second team All-Americans, respectively, with Rivera selected as the SUNYAC Offensive Player of the Year.

Makhia Laster, another student athlete, was nominated for the Elite 90 award at the Indoor Track & Field National Championships, signifying her as one of the top 20 athletes in the country.

The final segment of the address was dedicated to illustrating new initiatives meant to support strategic priorities, such as enhancing morale and campus climate and fostering a culture of quality assurance and continuous improvement.

“To cultivate a more engaging and uplifting campus environment, we’re excited to introduce ‘Collaborative Conversations,’” said Dr. Durand. “This series will feature discussions on a variety of topics, including a Middle States Conference Outcomes, Cultural Competency, and Critical Conversations, to name a few. In furtherance of this strategic priority, we are creating a Resource Center in the Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Office. This space is designed to foster an environment where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported. It will offer a broad range of resources, opportunities, and educational programs aimed at empowering everyone, regardless of background or experience.”

Dr. Durand also touched on how students and faculty should resound to any outside law enforcement should they arrive on campus.

“We ask that you immediately contact the University Police Department and refrain from interference. The UPD will consult with counsel. This ensures that we respond uniformly and appropriately, based on our understanding of the relevant laws and policies. Additionally, please avoid giving any advice to students on this matter. We understand and appreciate your concern for our students, but it is crucial that we direct students to the appropriate resources rather than risk misinforming them, or putting the institution, or individuals at risk.”

Dr. Durand concluded the State of the University address with the following statement.

“In the spirit of our distinguished third president, Paul G. Bulger, I echo his words, once again, ‘Onward and Upward!’ As we move forward, let us continue to strive for academic excellence, champion student success, and commit to building a legacy that will endure. Thank you for your dedication, commitment, and contribution to Buffalo State University.”