Our unparalleled Higher Achievement Program finished its fun four-week run Friday as families and friends joined us for the HAP Awards ceremony in Scaccia Auditorium. It was a highlight of a very busy Week Five of our Best. Summer. Ever. 

Rising eighth graders from all over Western New York took classes in reading, English and math and competed in team sports and other activities with their homeroom teams – all of which are named after Jesuit colleges.

“This was a great summer of competition and hard work and we’re proud of all these young men,” said HAP Director and Assistant Director of Admission Brendan Tenney ’12. “We are looking forward to seeing you in the future.”

Students vied for the fourth HAP House Cup in a competition modeled after the pioneering CHS House System.

After an ultra-competitive battle of the three houses, Arrupe House claimed the 2025 HAP House Cup. Arrupe, led by CHS history teacher Sam Rizzo ’97, was comprised of homeroom teams Canisius University, Georgetown University and Gonzaga University. 

“This year was easily the most hotly contested House Cup since its inception, with the House Cup going right down to the wire with Thursday's championships," said Tenney.

“Much like here at Canisius, the House Cup is not only about competition, but about fostering inclusion, community and brotherhood. When I surveyed this group about their favorite aspect of HAP, I was struck by how many referenced the friendships they have made the last few weeks.”

The ceremony was highlighted with the naming of Mr. HAP 2025: Ossy Stevens of Akron Middle School, who was a part of Arrupe House and Canisius University.

“Ossy is a leader. He is positive. An eternal optimist,” said Canisius University teacher and coach Nick Paterson.

“Just yesterday, we lost the basketball championship game. Some guys were upset and on the bench. Ossy was going down the bench, giving everyone a high-five trying to get them amped for the next game. … Which, by the way, they ended up winning!”

 

 

 

 

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Continuing with the 2025 HAP Awards:

Jim Lilley Sportsmanship Award

(named for the longtime teacher, coach and Dean of Students, it goes to the student who best shows respect for his opponent and graciousness in winning and losing)

Noah Dewey of Grand Island and St. Stephen School (Fairfield University and Jogues House).

“Through his positive, welcoming spirit that he offered freely to all, Noah Dempsey has left a lasting impression,” said Fairfield (and CHS) teacher Bryce Hopkins ’08.

“In his academics, service to others, and athletic endeavors, Noah consistently steps up to the plate, gives his best, and does so with a genuine smile and enthusiasm. In the classroom, he exhibited a commitment to the pursuit of excellence and an openness to academic exploration. On the courts and fields, he demonstrated his skills, but perhaps more importantly, he showed great sportsmanship through how he offered warm encouragement to his teammates and treated his opponents with dignity. Noah is well on his way to becoming a Man For and With Others.”

Pedro Arrupe Award for Service

(named for the Spanish Jesuit who served as Superior General of the Society of Jesus, it goes to the student who conducts himself as a true Man for Others)

Adam Ferrelli of East Amherst and St. Mary School Swormsville (Gonzaga University and Arrupe House).

“Adam is a friendly young man that always has a smile on his face,” said Gonzaga teacher and coach Ben Fazio.

“He’s a wonderful student in the classroom and is always willing to participate in classroom discussions. He always gives 100% when he is playing a sport and works to be a great teammate.”

Spirit of HAP Award

(student who best models the way for his peers through leadership and inclusion)

Byron Barnes of Maryvale Middle School (St. Peter's University and Campion House).

“Byron is polite, always willing to participate, helps others and, even while being a terrific basketball player himself, always passes the ball and gets teammates involved,” said Campion Head of House Bob Duggan. “He is a well-rounded young man who strives for excellence both academically and athletically.”

HAP Team Champions

Basketball: Fordham Rams

Football: Fairfield Stags

Handball: Canisius Golden Griffins

Soccer: Loyola Greyhounds 

House Challenge: Fairfield Stags

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These great images were captured by CHS Digital Media photographer Dean Gracie '27 (@gracie_prod). 

Students can still be a part of our Best. Summer. Ever program, as there are limited spots remaining in our rowing and basketball camps, which continue through mid-August. Check out the lineup at canisiushigh.org/bestsummerever

Students and families interested in the excellence only found in a Jesuit education at Canisius – rated as the Buffalo area’s “Best Catholic School” by Buffalo Business First – can learn more by scheduling an on-campus experience at canisiushigh.org/visit

And be sure to save the date: Our Open House will be held Sun. Oct. 5 and Mon. Oct. 6.

This place is special. Let us show you why.

#AMDG #GoCrusaders #PursueExcellence