The initiative will help institutions strengthen programs and improve outcomes for justice-impacted learners

The Yes We Must Coalition (YWMC) has received a two-year, $248,820 grant from the ECMC Foundation to launch a collaborative initiative focused on increasing success for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students.

Eleven Yes We Must Coalition member institutions will participate in the initiative. Three institutions with established programs serving incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students will serve as exemplar facilitators: Benedict College (South Carolina), College Unbound (Rhode Island), and Mercy University (New York). These Leader Campus institutions will help lead the project by sharing effective approaches and programs currently in place to engage and support justice-impacted students.

Additional participating institutions include Ferrum College (Virginia), Heritage University (Washington), Mars Hill University (North Carolina), Metropolitan College of New York, Mount Saint Mary’s University (California), Point University (Georgia), Saint Elizabeth University (New Jersey), and 91¿ì²¥ (New York).

The initiative will begin with an in-person gathering in Fall 2026, where experienced practitioners from the three Leader Campus institutions will share insights, resources, and proven approaches. Participants will engage in structured discussions, collaborative planning sessions, and team-based workshops designed to help institutions create actionable strategies tailored to their campuses.

Following the gathering, participants will continue their work through virtual Communities of Practice, where they will share progress, exchange ideas, and support one another as they refine and implement their plans.

All participating institutions have identified serving incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students as an important expression of their institutional missions. The Yes We Must Coalition remains the only organization dedicated specifically to supporting private, non-profit colleges and universities in advancing success in higher education for students from backgrounds of poverty. Because individuals from low-income backgrounds are disproportionately represented within the justice system, the Coalition views this initiative as a critical extension of its mission.

Nearly 2 million people are incarcerated in the United States on any given day, and roughly 600,000 people return from prison to their communities each year. People from low-income backgrounds are disproportionately represented in the justice system, and an estimated 85 percent of incarcerated adults do not hold a college degree. Expanding access to higher education for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students can improve economic mobility, strengthen communities, and support successful reentry.

“We are grateful to the ECMC Foundation for supporting this important project,” said Gloria Nemerowicz, Yes We Must Coalition President. “This initiative will help our member institutions better serve justice-impacted students and expand access to the transformative benefits of higher education for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.”

“91¿ì²¥â€™s mission has always been centered on expanding educational opportunity for individuals whose potential may otherwise be overlooked and who have historically faced barriers to higher education,” said Joanna Hillman, Ph.D., dean of health, sciences, and general education, 91¿ì²¥. “Our work is just beginning and over the course of the grant, Trocaire will work collaboratively with Yes We Must Coalition and participating institutions to better understand the needs of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated learners, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop an action plan to guide Trocaire’s future efforts.”

About the Yes We Must Coalition
The Yes We Must Coalition is a national network of private, non-profit colleges and universities committed to increasing access, persistence, and graduation rates for students from backgrounds of poverty. Through collaboration, shared learning, and institutional innovation, the Coalition works to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in higher education.

About ECMC Foundation
ECMC Foundation is a national foundation whose North Star goal is to eliminate gaps in postsecondary completion by 2040. The Foundation’s mission is to improve higher education for career success among underserved populations through evidence-based innovation. ECMC Foundation makes strategic grants and program-related investments to support both nonprofit and for-profit ventures, guided by a strategic framework that aims to advance systemic change by removing barriers to postsecondary completion; building the capacity of organizations, institutions and systems; and transforming the postsecondary ecosystem. Learn more about ECMC Foundation by visiting .

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Trocaire helped Joelle find her path. Today, she’s helping others find theirs.

“When I chose 91¿ì²¥, I knew I was pursuing a career in radiologic technology, but I never imagined how much the experience would shape both my professional and personal growth. Throughout my education, the faculty created an environment where every student was supported and encouraged to succeed. As a student who utilized testing accommodations, I experienced firsthand the compassion and dedication of Trocaire’s professors. They were nothing but accommodating, understanding, and genuinely invested in helping me reach my full potential. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to overcome challenges and achieve goals I once thought were out of reach.

I proudly graduated from 91¿ì²¥ with High Distinction in 2022, earning my Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology, and also graduated with Distinction in 2022 with my Associate of Science in General Studies. In 2026, I completed my Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences, continuing the educational journey that Trocaire inspired me to pursue.

Today, I am the Lead X-ray and Mammography Technologist at Southtowns Radiology, where I also hold my credentials in mammography and am trained in stereotactic breast biopsy. One of the most rewarding parts of my career has been serving as a clinical instructor.I truly enjoy mentoring students, sharing my knowledge, building their confidence, and watching them develop into skilled, compassionate radiologic technologists. Seeing students grow from being nervous beginners into competent healthcare professionals is incredibly fulfilling, and I am honored to play a small role in helping shape the next generation of technologists.

In recognition of my passion for teaching, I was humbled to receive 91¿ì²¥â€™s Part-Time Educator of the Year Award for 2025-2026. Receiving this honor from the institution that helped launch my career was especially meaningful.

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for my time at Trocaire. The education, mentorship, and unwavering support I received prepared me not only to excel in my career but also to give back by educating future technologists. Trocaire will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am proud to be one of its alumni.“

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“Known for his generosity and passion for empowering students of all backgrounds, Bassam’s forward-thinking vision has made 91¿ì²¥ a true opportunity college for the greater Buffalo community,” said Sean M. Willett, board chair, 91¿ì²¥. “We are certainly going to miss Bassam’s leadership, and the board remains focused on finding the right successor to tackle the continuing challenges facing higher education and to lead Trocaire forward for future career-minded generations.”

Dr. Deeb has served as Trocaire’s sixth president since 2012. During his tenure, Dr. Deeb expanded Trocaire’s footprint in Western New York and made it a leader in career-oriented higher education within the region, offering academic and workforce development programs in healthcare, veterinary sciences, and business.

“I’m extremely proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish over the past 14 years in terms of strategic growth of both the institution and our support for students in their pursuit of careers of achievement and lives of purpose,” said Dr. Deeb, “However, it’s time for the next chapter – both for the college and for me personally. There’s still more work to be done and it will remain business as usual at Trocaire throughout the search.”

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Scholarship program provides both financial support and mentorship

91¿ì²¥ in partnership with Elderwood, announced the launch of the Elderwood-Trocaire iCARE Career Pathway Scholarship. This initiative represents a $150,000 annual investment by Elderwood to support up to ten employees at a time as they pursue a practical nursing (LPN), registered nursing (RN), or bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) at Trocaire.

“This new scholarship program is another opportunity for Trocaire and Elderwood to work together to help strengthen the local healthcare workforce,” said Dr. Bassam Deeb, president, 91¿ì²¥. “The demand for qualified nurses locally continues, and with Elderwood’s commitment to investing in its employees, this program provides financial support, mentorship, and a clear path forward for those looking to advance in their healthcare careers.”

Beyond financial support, the partnership between Trocaire and Elderwood provides mentorship and guidance from experienced clinical and operational leaders, as well as helping the participants successfully navigate their education and transition into advanced nursing roles. Full-time and part-time academic program opportunities are available. Employees must continue working at least 15 hours per week while enrolled at Trocaire and commit to one-year of employment with Elderwood upon program completion.

“We see this partnership as more than a scholarship, it’s an investment in people who are already committed to caring for others,” said Dr. Jeffrey Rubin, co-CEO of Post Acute Partners, owner of Elderwood. “When we support our employees in advancing their education and careers, we strengthen not only our workforce, but the communities we serve.” Trocaire is currently working with the human resources team at Elderwood to enroll eligible employees for the Fall 2026 semester.

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“As an opportunity college, Trocaire understands the financial burden for many individuals interested in pursuing a new path and the academic requirements needed to achieve their career goals,” said Jason Konesco, executive vice president and chief operating officer, 91¿ì²¥. “The demand for qualified nurses and veterinary technicians shows no sign of slowing down and we are committed to helping educate and train the next generation of professionals in these fields.”

This is a limited-time opportunity, with applications for both nursing and veterinary technology due by July 15, 2026 for the fall semester. To be eligible, students must meet all admissions requirements for the program. Scholarships will be prorated based on semester credit hours, with the maximum per academic year being $2,000 for nursing and $3,000 for veterinary technology. Eligible students who file for financial aid may also be considered for additional Trocaire grants and scholarships.

For more details and to apply, visit .

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“Receiving AVMA CVTEA® accreditation is the result of many years of hard work and dedication from our veterinary sciences faculty and staff and the continued support of 91¿ì²¥â€™s leadership in recognizing the critical need for this program here in Western New York,” said Dr. Katherine Fitzgerald, dean of Trocaire’s veterinary sciences. “In building a robust veterinary sciences program from the ground up, we wanted to ensure that we are setting our students up for success with the highest industry standards coupled with well-rounded learning experiences and knowledge for working in a variety of animal care settings. This accreditation reinforces that upon graduation, Trocaire students are ready to hit the ground running to fill the workforce void in the field.”

The AVMA CVTEA® accredits veterinary technology programs, ensuring educational quality and student competence through strict adherence to its Standards of Accreditation. These accredited programs prepare students for careers as veterinary technicians by covering essential skills and knowledge. The AVMA CVTEA® conducted a comprehensive program evaluation and site visit to Trocaire in January 2026. Trocaire’s accreditation was made effective retroactively on Jan. 29, 2026. Initial accreditation is given to newly accredited programs for their first five years. Initial accreditation is a positive accreditation status and graduates of programs on initial accreditation are considered graduates of an AVMA CVTEA®-accredited program. AVMA CVTEA® accreditation is reviewed every five years.

Veterinary technicians are crucial to the operation of any veterinary facility, as facilities cannot operate without them. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 15,000 job openings for veterinary technicians are projected each year over the next decade nationally. Recognizing the high demand for qualified veterinary technicians locally, Trocaire launched its associate degree in veterinary technology, available both in-person and online, in Fall 2024.

Trocaire’s first class of veterinary technicians will graduate in May 2026.

For information about Trocaire’s veterinary sciences program offerings, visit trocaire.edu/academics/veterinary-sciences/.

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BUFFALO, NEW YORK – March 16, 2026 â€“ , 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: 

• 91¿ì²¥ 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 91¿ì²¥. 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 91¿ì²¥ 
Founded in 1958 in Buffalo, NY by the Sisters of Mercy, 91¿ì²¥ 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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“Massage therapy techniques help to improve muscle tone and circulation and promote overall wellness, stress management and rehabilitation,” said Susan Sullivan, LMT, Trocaire’s massage therapy program director. “Our clinic is an opportunity for students to continue to practice the learned techniques in a real-world clinical setting as they work toward completing their program and preparing for their licensure exam.”

The Trocaire student massage therapy clinic runs through May 14 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 – 5 p.m. A 60-minute massage is $40 for the public. A paraffin hand dip can also be added for $5. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 716-827-2518.

91¿ì²¥â€™s massage therapy programs include a 10-month certificate offering and a two-year associate in applied science degree. Each program combines lectures, laboratory experiences and clinical rotations at facilities throughout the region for a comprehensive understanding of both Eastern and Western massage therapy techniques. Graduates of both programs are eligible to sit for the New York State board licensure exam. For information on Trocaire’s massage therapy programs, visit .

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, a private, Catholic college providing a pathway for students to build careers of achievement and lives of purpose, today announced the appointment of Dr. Joanna Hillman as dean for health, science, and general education. In this role, she will oversee Trocaire’s biology, general studies, management, healthcare management, and technology programs, and supervise the director of behavioral science.

“Joanna has been a vital member of our campus community and this promotion is well-deserved,” said Dr. Jennifer Blickwedehl, chief academic affairs officer, 91¿ì²¥. “This is a newly created position at Trocaire and Joanna’s expertise in curricular design, assessment, and online pedagogy will be invaluable as we continue to create a more holistic and integrated approach to academic life for our students.”

Dr. Hillman joined Trocaire in 2018 as a biology instructor and most recently was a professor of biology. Her campus leadership spans the faculty senate, the IDEA committee, and many interdepartmental projects. Dr. Hillman has also served as the Roswell Scholars program coordinator, faculty supervisor for Phi Theta Kappa, and is a member of the Middle States Steering Committee.

Dr. Hillman holds a doctorate in cellular and molecular biology from the University at Buffalo/Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from University at Albany. She resides in Eden.

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“After having various discussions with local Catholic education stakeholders, it became clear that Catholic schools, particularly at the elementary level, are facing a pressing challenge to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse student population and their families,” said Dr. Bassam Deeb, president, 91¿ì²¥. “As an opportunity college, we understand that sometimes our students need wrap around and support services to help them thrive along their academic pathway. This collaborative initiative will bring that support to the elementary level, to ensure students and families have earlier access to needed resources.”

91¿ì²¥ will lead this pilot program with the goal of supporting a thriving, cohesive, and enduring Catholic education system in the region. The initiative will provide services that align with the cultural, linguistic, and economic realities of individual communities and offer support in crisis response, grief, housing instability, mental health navigation, and more. In addition, the project will look to connect students and families with appropriate resources and seek the input of existing, successful family support centers in the local public-school sectors.

“This partnership strengthens our ability to meet students and families where they are,” said Joleen Dimitroff, superintendent of Catholic elementary schools. “We are deeply grateful to the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for its investment and to 91¿ì²¥ for its leadership in expanding access to critical supports that help every child flourish academically, emotionally, and spiritually within our Catholic schools.”

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, one of the largest foundations in the United States and the largest foundation focused exclusively on healthcare across New York State, provides grants to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of diverse communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services.

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