Russell L. Agrusa, BS ’76, is one of the University at Buffalo’s most dedicated and visionary alumni. A successful entrepreneur and engineering innovator, Agrusa is the founder of ICONICS Inc., a global leader in industrial automation software with more than 300,000 installations worldwide. Under his leadership, ICONICS pioneered advancements in human-machine interface (HMI) and standards-based automation, earning multiple patents and prestigious honors, including Microsoft’s Partner of the Year award—seven times.

A proud UB engineering alumnus, Agrusa has remained deeply engaged with his alma mater for more than two decades. He has served on the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Dean’s Advisory Council since 2003 and was honored with the school’s Dean’s Award for Achievement in 2010.

Agrusa has made transformative contributions to UB, including supporting student innovation competitions and establishing spaces like the Agrusa Auditorium and Paula’s Plaza, in honor of his late wife, a 1978 graduate of the School of Management who shared his passion for giving back.

In 2024, Agrusa made a historic $40 million commitment to the school—the largest individual gift in its history—in support of the construction of Russell L. Agrusa Hall, a new state-of-the-art, student-focused engineering facility that will advance research and education in AI, computer science and related fields.

Agrusa’s philanthropy extends beyond UB, including significant support for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. His hands-on, heartfelt approach reflects a lifelong belief in the power of education, innovation, and service.

In honoring Russell Agrusa with the Capen Award, UB recognizes a trailblazer whose generosity and leadership continue to shape the university’s future—and inspire the next generation of engineers.