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Paul Cumbo '97 receives Bene Merenti Award in recognition of 20 years in Jesuit education
Paul Cumbo '97 receives Bene Merenti Award in recognition of 20 years in Jesuit education
Keith McShea

“Paul Cumbo embodies the heart of Jesuit education. He was formed by this institution and has served it now for 20 years to shape others with and in that same Ignatian spirit.”

English teacher Paul Cumbo ’97 received the Bene Merenti Award – presented to members of the faculty at Jesuit schools in recognition of 20 years of teaching, serving and leading – during our 155th Commencement.

Principal Tom Coppola '01 described the Cumbo’s contributions to Canisius before President Fr. David Ciancimino, S.J., presented the award.

“In his time with us, he has served as head of house, campus minister, coach, formation director and English Teacher – and of course, at our 150-year anniversary, he literally wrote the book on the place,” Coppola continued, referring to Cumbo’s authoring of “Blue Doors,” a history of CHS. “Through it all, he guides students to be discerning and critical thinkers.

“A colleague said, ‘Paul’s instruction reflects a profound care for every student’s journey, guiding them with wisdom, compassion and the commitment of someone who knows that education is both a calling and a sacred and shared trust. Through his deep commitment to faith, service and the Ignatian formation of young men, Paul shows us what Cura Personalis can be.’

“Please join me in recognizing a true Man for Others, Paul Cumbo.”

Later in the ceremony, Coppola quoted from Cumbo’s “Blue Doors” during his commencement address.

Throughout this summer and beyond, we will continue to look back at this most special day for the Class of 2025.

Students and families interested in the excellence only found in a Jesuit education at Canisius – ranked as the Buffalo area’s “Best Catholic School” by Buffalo Business First – can learn more by arranging an on-campus experience via canisiushigh.org/visit or by joining us at our Open House on Oct. 5-6.

This place is special. Let us show you why.

#AMDG #MenForOthers #GoCrusaders #PursueExcellence

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Requiescat in Pace, Joseph Scully ’50
Requiescat in Pace, Joseph Scully ’50

We mourn the loss of Joe Scully, a most devoted supporter of Canisius High School who dedicated himself to his alma mater over five decades. The longtime national sales manager was a recipient of our John Barnes Award and the CHS Service Award. He was 92.