Our Stories

Read about just a few of our many alumni and friends who accomplish amazing things around the world.

Facebook’s engineering director on 8 ways to think like an entrepreneur

10/15/19

We sat down with Tom Occhino, BS '07, engineering director at Facebook, to hear the eight things he recommends for thinking like an entrepreneur.

How joining The Spectrum led me to become an award-winning reporter

7/10/19

When I was 24 years old, I quit my job as a TV news producer to be a freelance reporter in Lebanon. I was confident I could succeed as an overseas reporter—largely because of my experience at the University at Buffalo.

Naan-Tastic: Bringing counter-style Indian cuisine to Buffalo

6/27/19

Aman Singh (BS ‘12) and his brother Ajay Singh are bringing the spices and flavors of the streets of India to Buffalo in their new restaurant, Naan-Tastic. The brothers’ second venture opened on Niagara Falls Boulevard in early 2019.

From Shy Student to Multimedia Master

6/21/19

John Koltai (BA '04) was a shy kid from Amherst when he started at UB. Now, he's a full-time freelance designer, animator and director who has worked on films such as Captain America 2: The Winter Soldier and Thor: Ragnarok.

Saving kids, in a heartbeat

6/14/19

What goes around has come around for pediatric cardiologist Thomas DiSessa (MD ’71), who has gone from a once-struggling student to a world traveler with a cause.

Stumbling upon a passion for public health

6/4/19

When Jackie Andula (BS '90, MPH '03) first graduated with her nursing degree from UB, she had no idea she’d accidentally stumble upon a passion for public health that would span over three decades.

Global Power

7/18/19

Oliver Young (Yang Hanfeng) (MBA ’04) exemplifies the strength of UB’s global alumni network. Students and fellow graduates benefit from his mentorship and strong ties with the university, his position as a business leader and his connections to the Warren Buffets of the world.

Andres Santandreu, MArch '17, BS '16, in his own words

1/30/19

Andres Santandreu, MArch '17, BS Arch '16, talks about his experience as an international student from Venezuela and the impact UB has on his life. Read his story.

Paying it forward

1/30/19

Greer Hamilton and Danise Wilson believe in strengthening minority representation in human services and public health professions.

A country doctor gives UB its largest gift ever

1/30/19

George Ellis Jr., MD ’45, and his wife Kelly, remained anonymous donors until recently. Learn about this amazingly generous couple who gave UB its largest gift ever.