AMHERST, N.Y. – Daemen College will celebrate the grand opening of its newly named Paul A. Saffrin Center for Sustainability and Civic Engagement at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for 3 p.m. Sept. 7 in Duns Scotus Room 226.

The ceremony, which is a part of Daemen’s inaugural Founders Celebration, will include the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the naming in honor of an historic $1 million gift from the Paul A. Saffrin Foundation. Remarks will be given by Daemen President Gary A. Olson, Paul A. Saffrin, and Dr. Maureen Millane, associate vice president for community engagement. A reception will immediately follow the dedication ceremony, which is free and open to the public.

“Through a range of successful programs and partnerships, our center has fostered a highly engaged Daemen campus that has contributed to stronger communities locally and beyond,” said Millane. “Mr. Saffrin’s immense generosity will enable our center to build on these initiatives and to further its vital role in promoting a lifelong commitment to civic responsibility and environmental sustainability.”

The endowed gift has been designated to advance the center’s efforts and to create new opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to engage with communities. It will also allow the center to enhance its efforts in building a more sustainable future and addressing environmental issues to promote the well-being of communities around the world. 

Also on Sept. 7, Daemen Founders Celebration festivities will include a college memorabilia exhibit with clothing, posters, mugs, and other mementos from the past 70 years on display throughout the day in the Wick Campus Center’s Alumni Lounge. Kathryn Hammer, alumni relations director, will be on hand from 2 to 3 p.m. to answer historical questions about the college.

For information on all Founders Celebration events taking place Sept. 7 and 8, visit www.daemen.edu/founderscelebration.