Jack Lincoln

It is an honor to be nominated for the Mr. Canisius award. I am humbled to be recognized alongside fellow nominees – Dan, Dylan, Hector, Jack and Pat – each of whom represents what it means to be a Canisius Man. It has been a privilege to witness their unique accomplishments and accolades in our time here together.

This nomination wouldn't be possible without the teachers, students, administrators and parents who make up the Canisius High School community – a community that I have fallen in love with over my time here. Growing up a few blocks away, it was always the obvious conclusion that I would attend Canisius. The proximity to my house and the school’s reputation made it a natural choice. In fact, I didn’t even apply to any other high schools because I assumed it to be unnecessary. However, what I did not know and could not have predicted, is the impact Canisius would have on me.

From walking through the Blue Doors every morning, to experiencing a curriculum that challenged me to think deeper, to my time on the athletic field, Canisius has been formative in so many ways. Whether I was leading the Blue Crew at football games, playing defense on the soccer team, helping create the senior Christmas video, or campaigning for the walkathon, Canisius’ impact on my character is certain.

The opportunities Canisius has provided me to explore Ignatian spirituality through experiences such as Emmaus, Kairos and the Senior Silent Retreat, and through the companion trip to New Orleans, were truly life-changing and something I feel are unique to the school’s experience. The lessons that I have learned through campus ministry and the many leaders who make it happen have even inspired me to grow in my spiritual life. Through these mentorships at CHS, I have been able to receive the sacraments of baptism, Communion and confirmation. For this I am eternally grateful and encourage all underclassmen to explore similar opportunities.

I will look back on my time here with extreme pride and gratitude. Canisius is all it is advertised to be. It’s a place I will forever call home and its values will follow me wherever I go. In closing I would like to thank God, my family, and Canisius High school for everything I have learned and become over the past four years.

A.M.D.G.

Jack Lincoln

Mr. Canisius 2025 Finalists

Patrick Enright of Orchard Park (Nativity of Our Lord School)

Jack Ganci of Buffalo (St. Mark School)

Hector Gitego of Amherst (Catholic Academy of West Buffalo)

Jack Lincoln of Buffalo (Nardin Academy Middle School)

Dylan McCarthy of Lancaster (Lancaster Middle School)  

Daniel Sugg of Lancaster (Lancaster Middle School)