Thurman Thomas headlines honorees for Niagara University's President's Dinner

Thurman L. Thomas, the retired Buffalo Bills running back and Pro Football Hall of Famer, headlines a slate of individuals who will be honored during Niagara University's President's Dinner Nov. 18 at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls.

Proceeds from the President's Dinner benefit Niagara University's scholarship programs. Last year, Niagara granted more than $43 million in scholarship assistance to undergraduate students. Sixty-one percent of the students who were awarded scholarships came to NU from one of the eight counties within Western New York.

Thomas, who currently serves as president of the 3480 Group, will receive the Legacy of Service Award.

Dr. Gary Praetzel, dean emeritus of Niagara University's College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, will be presented with the Medal of Honor, while Robyn L. Krueger, executive director of Community Missions of Niagara Frontier Inc., will receive the St. Vincent de Paul Award.

Presentation of the Caritas Medal will be made to Brian P. Crosby, Class of 1967, partner at Gibson, McAskill and Crosby LLP; and to current Niagara University trustee, and Brian's wife, Dr. Frances E. Crosby, '67, director of NU's School of Nursing.

The President's Dinner begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails and includes awards presentations, dinner and music. "Business attire" is welcome.

Charles Chiampou, '76, a member of Niagara University's board of trustees, and his wife, Sandra, '76, are serving as the dinner's chair couple.

Tickets for the President's Dinner are $195 per person (or $145 for NU alumni who graduated after 2000) and may be reserved at www.niagara.edu/PresidentsDinner. Ticket and sponsorship information is also available by contacting Niagara University's Office of Institutional Advancement at 716-286-8778 or [email protected]. Tickets will not be available at the door.