Director of Admissions
I was born and raised in Williamsville, NY. I’m a proud Billie, class of 1988! While preparing to be a teacher, I discovered a passion for working with students who had made a decision to continue their education. I have worked in college admissions since 1997 and have been at NU since 2006.
The real question is, if we have your major, why not consider Niagara? NU offers so much freedom and so many opportunities to students including small class sizes, faculty interaction, Division I sports and great research opportunities…. to name a few. It’s all here. All you need is the desire to get involved and participate in everything Niagara has to offer.
Meet like minded people. Have conversations. Inquire. You can email us or call to find out everything you ever wanted to know about Niagara – admission criteria, programs, activities, clubs. etc. The relationship you build with your admissions counselor will last through your 4 years at NU and beyond. One last bit of advice, be sure to talk to NU alums, teachers, high school counselors and your family about us!
Movie: Say Anything, Underworld movies
Quote: "The check is in the mail" —Jack Burton
Role Model: My parents– I think they did it right!
Musical Performer: Journey
Book: Walden —Henry David Thoreau
Senior Associate Director of Admissions
A native of Long Island, like many of my classmates, I ventured up to the western region of New York State to attend Niagara University as an undergraduate. I was looking for a university with a strong science and history program convinced I was going undersea with Jacque Cousteau. After a year, I decided on pre-law instead. This was the career path that I was sure I was going to follow until did some volunteer work at a local elementary school with students who were academically challenged. This volunteer service changed my career direction completely. At the beginning of junior year I became and education major (Oh, how I wished NU had the Academic Exploration Program when I attended!). Although challenging, my adviser and I devised a plan for me to complete my four year program on time. After graduation, I went back to Amityville, Long Island and worked as a substitute teacher and started a master’s degree locally. A position in the NU Admissions Office opened and I have been at Mount Eagle Ridge ever since – knowing my passion is working with students and families as they research the next step in the educational process.
For each student there may be different reasons or maybe just one overriding reason: academic, social, cultural, athletic, and religious or just a gut feeling. The reasons I chose NU was two-fold: it had a strong academic reputation and once I stepped foot on campus I knew this was where I belonged (educationally speaking). It is the gut feeling that I could not deny.
As a prospective student, know that foremost NU is a private, Catholic, coeducational, liberal arts university founded by the Vincentian Community in 1856. Our history is rich and so are our academic disciplines – many receiving the highest accreditation possible. In addition, our students have opportunities not only to make a difference academically but also make a difference by getting involved in community service (Learn & Serve). It is here, NU students put into action what an NU education is all about – it is this component that makes NU a wonderfully exciting educational experience.
It is never too early to start considering your options. Keep a strong academic schedule, keep track of the activities that you participated in (clubs, sports, community service, part-time job(s) etc), think about which teachers you may want to write letters of recommendations for you, take the SAT or the ACT (or both) and remain positive.
If you visited any colleges and universities before your senior year (I hope you had that opportunity), you may want to revisit. If not this is the time to begin. You will have many options including an open house, discovery days, and personal appointments. You may even want to arrange to take a campus tour, sit in on classes, stay overnight in the residence halls, eat in the cafeteria or meet with a faculty member. Most importantly, make sure you review deadlines for applications, financial aid and scholarships. Plus, find out who your admissions counselor is – this is the person who will help you through the admissions maze for his/her college or university. Finally, take a deep breath and try to enjoy the process.
Movie: Too many to list, I like every type.
Quote: "You gotta love when a plan comes together." — From the A Team TV series
Assistant Director of Admissions
I am originally from WNY, having attended Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament and St. Mary’s High School in Lancaster. I did a social work internship in North Tonawanda and it soon became apparent to me that I wanted a career in higher education. Niagara university has been my career home for 10+ years.
With strong academics, competitive athletics and programs that develop the whole person, Niagara has it all. The environment here is very nurturing and allows you grow as a person.NU also offers competitive scholarships that reward you for all your hard work in high school. Niagara University truly is a family.
Get involved! Whether it be in clubs or community service projects, involvement at Niagara is key! Use your 4 years at NU to develop your life and career skills. It’s never to early to begin your resume or practice interviewing. Learn to sell yourself!
Movie: Anything with Meg Ryan or Kate Hudson.
Quote: "Be yourself, everyone else is taken."
Role Model: Anyone who stays true to themselves.
Musical Performer: Miranda Lambert
Book: "Healing with the Energy of the Chakras" —Ambika Wauters
Assistant Director of Admissions
I grew up in the town of Fairport, NY where school pride, love for your community and togetherness were part of your daily life. When I was researching colleges, I wasn’t exactly sure what I was looking for until I visited Niagara. I just knew right away that NU was for me. I graduated in 2002 and a year later, I was working in Niagara’s Admissions Office.
Niagara is a special place. Year after year, I am amazed at the student stories that develop here. As a student, you will meet amazing people who come from all walks of life and learn in so many ways. At NU you will receive a great education, make great connections and leave with great memories. Niagara is a small school with big opportunities. As a Niagaran, you will develop into a well rounded person who is not only academically prepared but also ready to take on the world.
VISIT, VISIT, VISIT! Take advantage of the many different ways you can visit a college. Meet people, ask questions and get familiar with the college campus and its surroundings. And…. When you are narrowing down your choices, visit again!
Movie: Billy Madison
Quote: "Love Life."
Role Model: Kyle Hargrave, my high school Social Studies Teacher
Musical Performer: Dave Matthews Band
Book: "Z for Zachariah" —Robert O’Brien
Assistant Director of Admissions
I am originally from Elmira, NY where I attended Elmira’s Notre Dame High School. I am volunteer firefighter with Upper Mountain Fire Company in Lewiston, NY, and on the board of directors at Center City Neighborhood Development Corporation in Niagara Falls, NY. I have a wonderful wife, and a beautiful daughter. As an alum of Niagara University I was elated to have an opportunity to work for my alma mater.
Niagara University is a place to call home. When students visit Niagara for the first time, I often hear "this feels like home" or "I could see myself here in the Fall." Niagara also offers students great major choices, Division I sports, many clubs & activities, and a family like atmosphere. The opportunities at Niagara University are limitless!
Take school seriously! Success in college begins with you! Do not be afraid to chase your dreams, but remember to be realistic with yourself. Take the SAT or ACT in your junior year, and talk with your guidance counselor about college. VISIT EVERY SCHOOL YOU APPLY TOO! The campus visit is the most important part of the admissions process!
Movie: Any James Bond or Indiana Jones Movie
Quote: My guidance counselor used to say "Hard work, works!" And that is my favorite quote because hard work does work!
Role Model: I don’t really have a role model. I like to be me!
Musician: Bruce Springsteen
Book: The last book I read was a text book. I am more of a current events guy.
Admissions Counselor
I am from Buffalo, NY. I’m an Aries, an Army brat and a first generation college graduate. I have also done work in television, radio and worked with ESPN. In my spare time I try to be involved with fashion and hair styling. I love NU and working here has really contributed to my academic and professional knowledge.
Niagara is a small university that provides BIG opportunities. It is a place where you never feel out of place. Yes, there are challenges but NU provides the tools to help you meet them. And by doing so you become a better person for it!
Meet your fears about college head on. Our admissions team will help you through any questions you may have. When looking at college, don’t wait until the last minute to inquire and fill out paperwork. The early bird really does catch the worm. Keep on top of things and it will definitely make the transition from high school to college much easier.
Movie: The Pursuit of Happiness
Quote: "Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education." —Martin Luther King Jr.
Role Model: Oprah Winfrey, Madame C.J. Walker and Whoopi Goldberg.
Musical Artist: Maxwell.
Book: The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Associate Dean for Transfer Enrollment
My Dean of Enrollment Management calls me Johnny Transfer and I take that as a compliment. I’ve been blessed to be at NU since 1998, dedicating the majority of my time to helping transfers find their way. I am a proud member of the New York State Transfer and Articulation Association (NYSTAA). As an active member of NYSTAA, I have been a two-term Executive Board Member, Co-Chair of the Issues Committee, a conference presenter and a current member of the Scholarship and Awards Committees. In May 2004, I was presented with the NYSTAA Distinguished Service Award, a great honor, which I am still humbled by, especially given the fact that Niagara University was a founding member of NYSTAA.
Niagara is truly a transfer-friendly campus. If you need evidence of this, look no further than my position. My goal is to make your transition to NU as smooth as possible. Our institution recognizes that transfers have unique needs and we do our best to fulfill them. In addition to this, we have excellent academics, a beautiful campus and some of the most generous transfer scholarships in the area. The Niagara experience is much more than an education, it’s a way of life, a family.
Take the opportunity to visit with someone on our staff to find out more about the university. Tour the campus, meet with professors and talk with students that have attended NU. Most importantly, challenge yourself. Strive to learn and achieve more at your current institution. Not only will this lead to potential scholarship opportunities, but you will be prepared for the academic rigor expected of you here at NU. Take full advantage of your college education.
Movies: Way too many to list.
Quote: "It’s all in the reflexes." -Jack Burton
Role Models: Jesus and my parents
Music: Depends on the day – Jazz, Classic Rock, Christian Rock, Gospel, Motown, Classical. But if it’s Journey, it has to have Steve Perry on the lead.
Books: My passion, so I’ll list authors – St. Luke, St. John, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesteron, Robert McCloskey and Clive Cussler
Assistant Director of Admissions
I grew up in Youngstown, NY. It was always a dream of mine to attend Niagara University. Although I did not enroll directly after high school, my life's path led right to Monteagle Ridge as an employee and an adult learner. I am so excited to be part of the NU family.
Being part of the Niagara University community is truly one of the great blessings in my life and I am proud to be a Purple Eagle! Our students also feel that same sense of community, belonging and pride.
Visit!! Be sure to visit the campuses of the colleges you are considering. It is the best to get a "feel" of the school and if it is right for you. Also, ask a lot of questions. That’s what we are here for. Good luck!
Movie: Moonstruck
Quote: "In the end, only kindness matters."
Role Model: My Grandmother, Annie
Musical Performer: Stevie Nicks
Book: "Spoils of Time Trilogy" — Penny Vincenzi
Admissions Counselor
I grew up in Clarence, NY and graduated from Nardin Academy High School. In 2005 I earned my undergraduate degree at SUNY Geneseo and went on to complete my graduate work at the University of Michigan , Ann Arbor. I have always been passionate about the college admission process since working at the SUNY Geneseo Admissions office as an undergraduate and was thrilled to join NU’s admissions staff in August, 2011.
Since joining the NU staff, I have been constantly amazed by the welcoming, community spirit here on campus, the strong academics and the exciting Division I sports teams. I encourage students to visit and explore everything NU has to offer.
Visiting college campuses is the best way to find a school that fits with you. Visit schools early, take notes and even bring a camera to take pictures. Never be afraid to ask questions– we are here to help you every step of the way.
Quote: "Never give up, for that is just the time and place that the tide will turn." —Harriet Beecher Stowe
Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life
Role Model: Maya Angelou
Musical Performer: Coldplay
Book: "A Short Guide to a Happy Life" —Anna Quindlen
Admissions Counselor
Originally from Hamburg, N.Y., and a 2007 Bulldog graduate, I spent the five years after high school graduation in Pittsburgh, Pa. I received my degree in English and education from Chatham University and was set to teach, until I realized that my passion for higher education could be combined with my love for teaching and coaching high school students as an admissions counselor. I love the Western New York area, running, hiking, being outdoors and volunteering. Niagara was the perfect fit – a close community in beautiful Lewiston with a commitment to service.
Niagara’s gorgeous and historic campus is located in a great area – right near Niagara Falls and Lewiston, and only a short drive from Buffalo and Ontario. The dedicated faculty truly "walk the talk" in caring about student success and engagement, and the commitment to service makes for a meaningful college experience for all students.
There’s a science to choosing a college to attend in the fall – it’s not as mysterious as it seems. Apply by Thanksgiving, narrow decisions by Christmas, talk with Financial Aid by Easter and make a decision by May 1. Keep those dates in mind and you’ll never be behind! For more mysteries decoded, always call your admissions counselor. We love answering your questions.
Movie: Stranger than Fiction
Quote: "The harder I work, the luckier I get" – Samuel Goldwyn
Book: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Musical Performer: City and Colour
