Daemen College’s economic impact on the Buffalo Niagara region in 2013 reached nearly $132 million, representing a $17 million increase for the Amherst-based institution, according to a new study released today, Jan. 15, by the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities (CICU).

“This substantial figure illustrates Daemen plays a key role in the region’s economic vitality and has emerged as a significant contributor to Western New York’s long-term economic well-being,” said Daemen President Gary A. Olson. “For almost 70 years, Daemen has been actively engaged in this area and we will continue our commitment to growing and thriving with the community.”

Daemen College has been selected as one of 240 institutions nationwide to receive the 2015 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, making it the second time the college has received this prestigious designation. Daemen is one of only two private institutions in Western New York of the five local colleges and universities to receive the classification.

“Being selected for this esteemed Carnegie national honor underscores Daemen’s campus-wide commitment to community partnerships, civic engagement and outreach in Western New York and well beyond our region,” said Daemen President Gary A. Olson. “This distinction is a significant credit to our students, faculty and staff and their exceptional efforts to strengthen and enrich the well-being of our communities.”

A specialized education program for area fitness trainers and instructors on modifying exercise programs to make them more open and inclusive to individuals with disabilities will be offered as part of a newly established project at Daemen College.

The comprehensive “train the trainer” four-week program, which is free for fitness and exercise instructors, will be held from 2:30 to 5 p.m. on Jan. 13, 20 and 27 and Feb. 3 in Daemen’s Wick Campus Center. This first component of a two-phase project, “Get Movin’ – Exercise, Nutrition and Wellness: A Fitness Initiative for Individuals with Disabilities,” is being funded by a $50,000 Inclusive Fitness Field-Related Grant from the New York State Developmental Disabilities Council (DDPC). Daemen was one of only three organizations across the state to receive the grant.