Our unparalleled Higher Achievement Program finished its fun four-week run with a fantastic Friday as families and friends joined us for the HAP Awards ceremony in Scaccia Auditorium followed by a celebratory picnic on Tripi Field.

HAP organizers expressed their gratitude to students and families for a great summer as rising eighth graders from all over Western New York made friendships and memories while taking classes in reading, English and math and competing in team sports and other activities with their homeroom teams (named after Jesuit colleges).

Honored at the HAP Awards were team champions in several sports and activities as well as the winners of the HAP House Cup – which went to Jogues House and Head of House Peter Reiser ’84, a CHS counselor. Jogues House was made up of the Xavier Musketeers, Fordham Rams and Fairfield Stags. 

This fifth HAP House Cup competition – modeled after the pioneering CHS House System – was the closest ever, according to HAP co-director and CHS Assistant Director of Admission Brendan Tenney.

Earning major awards at HAP 2026 were (group photo, left to right):

Savvino Barnes of Buffalo and NativityMiguel Middle School (Mr. HAP)

“SB is overall a great kid,” said Loyola teacher and CHS Campus Ministry associate Mikayla Fulton. “He excels in the classroom and on the field. He encourages his teammates. He congratulates and includes students. He’s thoughtful and notices everyone.” 

Kowat “Cody” Bawour of Buffalo and Catholic Academy of West Buffalo (Pedro Arrupe Award for Service)

“Cody stayed behind in the lunchroom after dismissal every day to help clean up trash that was not his,” said Loyola teacher Fulton. “In addition, he gives his all in the classroom and during sports and activities. He is always willing to help the other students and never complains.” 

Will Crawford of Orchard Park and Orchard Park Middle School (Spirit of HAP Award)

“Will was an important member of the Gonzaga team,” said Gonzaga teacher Ben Fazio. “He is strong academically and contributed significantly to our athletic success. He was a leader in the classroom and lifted up other students when they were down. He always carries a positive attitude and is a wonderful person to have on the team.” 

Leonard Bonilla of Buffalo and Dr. Antonia Pantoja Community School of Excellence (Jim Lilley Sportsmanship Award)

“Leonard is a competitor, he works hard in the classroom, is well-liked by peers, level-headed, kind, willing to let others play even when he is the better choice. He grew over the four weeks, discovering that following the crowd isn’t always the best route and made better decisions in the classroom and on the field as a result.” 

HAP Team Champions

Basketball: Georgetown Hoyas

Flag Design: Georgetown Hoyas

Football: Loyola Greyhounds

Great Game: Canisius Golden Griffins 

Handball: Georgetown Hoyas

Kickball: St. Peter’s Peacocks 

Minute to Win It: Fairfield Stags

Nitroball: Fordham Rams 

Soccer: Fairfield Stags

These outstanding 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. Get more information at canisiushigh.org/bestsummerever

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

And be sure to save the date: Our Open House this fall will be held Sunday, Oct. 18 and Monday, Oct. 19.

This place is special. Let us show you why.

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