Nicholas Scime
In eighth grade, at my brother Dan’s wedding, I remember nervously making a toast to a crowd of family and friends. I proudly said, “My brothers are my role models.” It’s a statement that has only grown more true with time.
That’s not to say it wasn’t true back then. I truly did look up to both of my older brothers in everything they did. I admired Dan’s charisma and confidence, Michael’s tenacity and compassion. Most of all, though, I admired the relationships that each had at the center of their lives. They were genuine and full of love. They didn’t require questions of loyalty or strength. Those relationships came from Canisius.
Flashforward to the other day, when someone asked me what I still wanted to do at Canisius in these final weeks that I have left. I thought about it for a while, and even now, a week later, my answer hasn’t changed: Nothing.
I feel completely fulfilled by what Canisius has given me.
I feel that fulfillment in the state championships, the service trips to prisons, the Kairos retreats, and even in the Xavier House breakfasts. More than anything, however, I feel it in that same thing my brothers found here years ago: Relationships.
I know it’s cliché to say “Canisius is special,” but it is. And that’s because of the people. People, in my life, give me purpose. So how could I not feel incredibly indebted to a place that has given me so many important people?
When someone asks what makes Canisius so great, I tell them exactly that. I tell them it’s not just the Wilderness Retreat – it’s the people you hike up Cascade Mountain with (while laughing until your stomach hurts). It’s not just the football games – it’s the people you headbutt in the student section after scoring another touchdown. It’s not just those big, beautiful Blue Doors – it’s the people you walk through them with each and every day.
Some of those people are standing with me here today, and I can’t express how honored I am to be among them. The qualities these young men have – David’s leadership, Elliott’s faith, Cole’s discipline, Matt’s devotion, and Baron’s genuine kindness – are ones I strive to emulate each and every day. So I think it’s still fitting to say that my brothers are my role models, because these five young men, and all of you, are my brothers. I wouldn’t trade that for the world.
Thank you all for saying hi in the hallways, cheering with me in the Blue Crew, and for being my role models. Most of all, thank you for being my brothers.
With deep gratitude,
Nicholas Scime
AMDG