Believe. Inspire. Transform: Enrich Our Student Experience

Goal: $30 MILLION

In many ways, Braden Bizon ’22 exemplifies how Gannon students become leaders through campus experiences that enhance personal and academic interests. 

He is, after all, involved in much of what Gannon has to offer – from athletics to fraternity life, theatre, Campus Ministry, residence life and the Student Government Association. He also found himself involved in playing music – and learning a powerful lesson of transformation.

After meeting at freshman orientation, Bizon and another student swiftly agreed to start a band. For Bizon, that meant actually learning to play an instrument: the campus’ public piano.

“The greatest lesson I learned there was not how to play piano, but how to work for a dream,” Bizon said. “I had to make myself vulnerable and humble myself.”

Persisting, his band debuted at an event that same year and continue to play today.

“Knowing I am at a place where I am supported and my dream is heard means so much to me,” Bizon said. “I’m just one student who is transformed by Gannon’s values into my best possible self.”

Braden Bizon exemplifies student leadership through his involvement on campus.

Bizon, a physician assistant major, is unsure what his career journey will bring, yet he knows he can achieve whatever he sets out do to – thanks to his Gannon student experience.

“Coming to Gannon was probably the best decision I’ve ever made,” Bizon said. “I’ve had opportunities I never thought I would have, and that definitely transformed me into being a person who realizes I can take destiny into my own hands.”

Bizon’s story is one of many that point to the transformative impact of a Gannon student experience. 

“Knowing I am at a place where I am supported and my dream is heard means so much to me. I’m just one student who is transformed by Gannon’s values into my best possible self.” - Braden Bizon ’22

Our next century campaign will enrich the student experience and ensure the most dedicated students can experience this impact and achieve their career aspirations – no matter their background or financial standing. 

We will also continue providing critical support in areas including orientation, leadership, student health and counseling, accountability, recreation, wellness, residence and commuter life, study abroad and scholarship opportunities.

Overall, we will enrich the student experience so that all of our students can focus on what matters most: earning a Catholic, values-centered education that fuels their passions and prepares them as leaders and career professionals. Just like Bizon.

Learn more about our goal of enriching our student experience at campaign.gannon.edu/student-experience.

Braden Bizon

Braden Bizon '22 wears many hats, including those of transition guide, athlete, brother, actor and more while being a student at Gannon.

Gannon University
109 University Square
Erie, Pa 16541
(814) 871-7000
www.gannon.edu

Gannon Magazine is published bi-annually by University Marketing and Communications.

We value your input; please direct any comments, questions or feature ideas to magazine@gannon.edu.

editors

Doug Oathout
Chief of Staff and Director of Marketing and Communications

Brianna Mariotti
Marketing and Content Strategist

design

  • Laura Giannelli
  • Andrew Lapiska ’09M

contributing writers

  • Mallory (Hedlund) Bottoni ’14
  • John Chacona
  • Bryan Kast
  • Nicole (Dohoda) Lossie ’11

editorial contributors

  • Haley Figurski
  • Kristine Rilling

photography

  • student, staff and alumni contributors

exclusive video content

  • Matthew King

online edition

  • Michael Gorski ’11M
  • Chloe Forbes ’21

To submit a class note, please contact:
Office of Constituent Engagement
gannonalumni@gannon.edu
814-871-5310