In addition to celebrating our senior scholars, we were excited to shine a light on our incredible alumni to commemorate our 35th anniversary.

Check out the video below to hear from some of our graduates about their Buffalo Prep journey and beyond.

Honorees

At this year’s event, we were proud to honor two very special advocates of Buffalo Prep and our scholars.

Hodgson Russ LLP

Hodgson Russ LLP has been a steadfast partner in educational equity. Established in 1817, they prioritize diversity in recruitment, hiring, and advancement - fostering an environment for innovative client solutions. Today, it is among the top 200 firms nationally.

Diversity and inclusion are central to Hodgson Russ’s ethos. They prioritize diversity in recruitment, hiring, and advancement - fostering an environment for innovative client solutions. The Hodgson Russ Diversity and Inclusion Committee intentionally focuses on Pipelines to the Law, Internal Education, and Community Support. Through the sharing and implementation of best practices, the committee strives for continuous growth and learning to better serve clients and colleagues alike.

Hodgson Russ has forged a longstanding partnership with Buffalo Prep, offering mentorship and financial support. In 2012, the firm established a college scholarship for Buffalo Prep's college-bound seniors interested in law.

In 2021, Hodgson Russ reaffirmed its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by participating in Buffalo Prep’s READI program. Through READI training, the firm engages in collective learning, developing knowledge and action plans to foster an inclusive and equitable environment.

National Fuel

Established in 1902, National Fuel is among the earliest gas utility companies in the US, operating in exploration, pipeline, gathering, and utility sectors. It prioritizes corporate responsibility, focusing on reducing its carbon footprint and promoting transparency.

National Fuel actively promotes educational equity by sponsoring programs such as Alumni Prep, which provides career exploration, leadership and enrichment workshops, social-emotional support, and networking and mentoring opportunities for Buffalo Prep alumni.

National Fuel also developed a scholarship opportunity for college-bound seniors affiliated with Buffalo Prep. This scholarship is paired with career exploration and internship opportunities.

In 2023, National Fuel invested in Buffalo Prep’s Angel Fund, now known as the Fuel Fund, which was created to offer financial support to Buffalo Prep scholars, promoting their overall growth by providing opportunities to participate in a range of academic and extracurricular activities that contribute to their holistic development.

Thank you, both, for your continued partnership!

David Kash Student Champion of the Year Award

The David Kash Student Champion of the Year Award is presented to a Buffalo Prep or partner high school teacher or administrator who is a champion of our scholars and works to support diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Nominated by Buffalo Prep’s senior class, this year’s David Kash Student Champion Award winner is Annie Golden of St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute.

Currently serving as the Director of Academic Support, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator, and the moderator of the Brother Pompian Honors Academy, Annie wears many hats in the pursuit of educational excellence and equity. In these roles, she tirelessly works to ensure that all students have access to the resources and support they need to thrive academically and personally.

Congratulations, Annie!

Distinguished Alumni Award

The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to a Buffalo Prep alumnus who lives their life with Prep Pride every day, demonstrates excellence in all that they do, and goes above and beyond to ensure that each and every child has the access and opportunities that they did. 

We were honored to present the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award to Crystal Rodriguez-Dabney, Buffalo Prep Class of 1990. 

From the very first class of

Buffalo Prep, Crystal embodies the spirit of excellence that defines the Buffalo Prep community.

A seasoned attorney, former public servant, and DEI expert, Crystal currently serves as Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Vice President at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. With extensive experience in local government and higher education, she leads Roswell Park's efforts in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access.

Congratulations, Crystal!