Alumni, parents and friends who make leadership commitments to Niagara receive special recognition for their generosity by being named members of the John Lynch Society, the university’s leadership gift club.

The Inspiration

Father John J. Lynch was an Irish Vincentian priest who came to the United States in 1840 to do missionary work. In 1856, he was called upon to help select an appropriate site for a seminary to train priests in Western New York. Father Lynch’s efforts resulted in the founding of Our Lady of Angels, later to become Niagara University.

As the first fundraiser for the university, Father Lynch was able to secure the necessary monies to purchase the property at Monteagle Ridge. Later, when the mortgage came due, he found the additional dollars to assure the continuation of the school and the Vincentian tradition he held so dear. Niagara University recognizes the benefactors who follow in Father Lynch’s footsteps by including them in a society that bears his name.

Membership in the John Lynch Society

Gifts to the John Lynch Society must be received by May 31. All gifts made within the fiscal year are counted – including gifts to the Niagara Fund, endowment, and Purple & White, as well as matching gifts from employers. Lynch Society membership is based on giving at least $1,000 annually.

Those giving at the $1,856 level and above will be further recognized within the Founder’s Circle.

Our Most Valued Donors

As a member of the John Lynch Society, you can expect special communication about the status of the university, exclusive invitations to select campus and regional events, as well as year-round accountability regarding the use of your gift.

Niagara University would like to acknowledge the following current members of the Lynch Society: