By Cameron Pettrone
Contributing Writer
In July, Sr. Margaret Carney, O.S.F. stepped down as president of St. Bonaventure University after 12 years.
Since receiving a bone marrow transplant, Carney now assumes the title “president emeritus;” the first in the university’s 150-year history.
“Emeritus” refers to members of academia who retired in distinction or good standing. As a sign of respect, Carney is allowed to retain her title.
Throughout her tenure at St. Bonaventure, she has demonstrated the university’s core values of discovery, understanding and individual worth.
According to Fr. Dominic Monti, O.F.M., former interim president, Carney is the embodiment of the ideals passed down through the school’s Franciscan heritage in the way that she works and interacts with people.
During her time as president, Carney received numerous awards. Her accolades include being named a “Woman of Influence” by Business First in Buffalo, an award recognizing prominent women in the business world, and the Citation Award, presented to her by the National Federation of Just Communities in Buffalo.
During Carney’s term, several new academic programs were put in place, including classes on cybersecurity, sport studies, industrial management, environmental studies and rehabilitation counseling.
Along with academic improvements, Carney made enhancements towards quality of programs students can join.
Some of these include the implementing of programs at the school such as the All Bonaventure Reads program, the Damietta Center and the Lateran Center.
She also oversaw the construction of new buildings such as the Walsh Science Center, Swan Business Center and Richter Center, along with the renovation of many older buildings around campus.
In the 12 years that she served as president, the university’s endowment increased from $33.3 million to $63.4 million.
Those who knew Carney, or know of her legacy at this school would more than likely agree that her leadership abilities warrant some sort of recognition.
The term “emeritus” comes from the Latin “ex,” meaning “out of,” and “mereri,” meaning “earn.”
Out of the years Carney dedicated to the improvement of St. Bonaventure University, her title “President Emeritus” is clearly earned.
pettrocj16@bonaventure.edu
