Senior Brunch Kicks Off Senior Week

The spread was delicious and the room was full with members of St. John Fisher University’s Class of 2026 for the Annual Senior Brunch, the official kick-off to Senior Week.

Soon-to-be-alumni were welcomed by Dr. Meg Flaherty, assistant dean of students.

“Today’s brunch is more than just a shared meal; it marks a meaningful transition from student to graduate and from graduate to a lifelong member of our alumni community,” she said. “Each of you has made your mark on this campus – in classrooms, on teams, through clubs, performances, research, and friendships. As you prepare to step into what’s next, know that your connections are enduring. You are, and always will be, a part of this place.”

President Rooney, who was joined by several members of the University’s senior leadership, also shared remarks with the seniors.

“I hope as you begin to celebrate Senior Week that you take the time to realize these accomplishments, the pride we have in you, and that you accept our well wishes to you as you move along as Fisher graduates. There is an amazing array of talents on this campus, and you have made the campus community better by sharing those gifts and talents with all of us. Thank you for making Fisher the better place that it is,” said Rooney.

Molly Place ’19, ’24MBA, the associate director of student and alumni engagement, officially welcomed the Class of 2026 into the broader Fisher alumni community, followed by a toast from Jennifer Gervase Benson ’94, chair of the Alumni Board of Directors.

“As you prepare to turn your tassels and take your next steps, I want to officially welcome you on behalf of the Alumni Office as you join a wonderful alumni community; it’s a lifelong family. From this day forward, you will be part of our incredible network of alumni; that means the thousands of individuals around the world and the country who share something special with you – the Fisher experience,” she said.

Three senior awards were presented during the brunch. The John A. Murray Award in Leadership is given to a student in recognition of academic proficiency and qualities which demonstrate an outstanding promise of leadership. The 2026 recipient was Kylie Zanjonczkoski.

“She is a leader who steps forward. She brings a strong sense of initiative, she looks for what’s possible and gets to work, and takes responsibility when it matters most,” said Flaherty when introducing Zanjonczkoski. “She is the kind of leader who not only delivers results but truly strengthens the people and communities around her.”

The Ruth Ann Constantino Senior Award was presented to Shawni Hagan. This award is given annually to a senior for outstanding academic improvement alongside leadership, enthusiasm, professionalism, and passion for education. Flaherty noted that Hagan embodied each of these qualities.

“What makes her leadership especially impactful is her presence. Students are drawn to her. They trust her, rely on her, and seek her out. All because they know that she will meet them with patience, honesty, and respect,” said Flaherty.

Place presented the Fisher for Life Award, given annually to a senior who has demonstrated outstanding character, leadership, and service to the campus community. The 2026 recipient was Brooke Chase, who has served as the Student Government Association president since 2024 and this past year, worked as an intern in the Office of Alumni Constituent and Engagement.

“Her professionalism, attention to detail, and willingness to step in when needed made her an invaluable member of our team. Her enthusiasm for strengthening the Fisher alumni network truly reflects the spirit of being Fisher for life,” said Place.

For the full Senior Week schedule, visit the Commencement website.