Peter W. Stevens, a cherished friend, coach and lifelong supporter of education and athletics, died on Nov. 28. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, his legacy reaches far beyond his many personal accomplishments. Steven’s contributions to D’Youville Athletics are a proud part of the school’s history. In the early 1970s, he served as the first men’s basketball coach for the then Spartans, laying the foundation for a program that would grow and evolve in the decades to follow. His early leadership helped shape a culture of teamwork, dedication and sportsmanship that still resonates with student-athletes and alumni today. Beyond the hardwood, Stevens exemplified the spirit of service. He served in the Army Reserves, was active in the Rotary Club and generously invested his time in his community and church. He also founded the Cambridge Stratford Study Skills Institute in 1985, where he inspired countless young people to reach their academic potential, reflecting his lifelong belief in the power of education and gratitude. His passions — Sunday morning Polka, gardening, family camping trips and cooking delicious soup for family and friends — brought joy to all who knew him. He also delighted in sharing playful moments with his grandchildren, often speaking joyful “gibberish” just to make them laugh. D’Youville loses its first men’s basketball coach, longtime supporter Peter W. Stevens | 1945-2025 D'YOUVILLE UNIVERSITY 55 ALUMNI NEWS WINTER 2026 A DEVOTED ALUMNA, nurse educator, advocate and lifelong champion of community health Elise Roxann Rhodes passed in 2024, leaving behind a legacy that will endure through the countless lives she touched. Born on Feb. 13, 1965, in Buffalo, Rhodes — affectionately known as “Lesa” — grew up on Wakefield Street in the Central Park Plaza neighborhood. Her early education in the Buffalo Public Schools and at local Catholic and public high schools laid the foundation for a life rooted in service. While a student at Lafayette High School, Rhodes discovered her calling in nursing and community engagement, beginning a remarkable career that spanned 42 years. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1988 and Master of Science in Community Health Nursing in 1995 from D’Youville, her beloved alma mater. She went on to serve with distinction as a licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, clinical cnstructor, professor, assistant dean, program director and academic advisor. Her leadership roles at D’Youville, SUNY Buffalo School of Nursing and the SUNY LSAMP program reflected her deep commitment to student success, equity and access in healthcare education. She was a tireless advocate for minority patients and nurses and a trusted mentor to students and professionals nationwide. A proud and active member of the D’Youville University Alumni Association, Rhodes also gave generously of her time as an advisor to the Black Student Union and the Minority Nurses Association. Her service extended into the broader community through health education initiatives, faith-based ministry at Elim Christian Fellowship and volunteer work across Buffalo’s cultural celebrations. Remembered as a gifted educator, poet, world traveler and beloved “top chef,” Rhodes lived fully and purposefully. Her compassion, leadership and unwavering dedication to community health remain an enduring inspiration to the D’Youville family. Shortly after her passing, Congressman Tim Kennedy (’99) recognized Elise Rhodes on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. A tireless advocate and mentor Elise Roxann Rhodes was a 1988 BSN graduate of D’Youville College who earned her Master’s degree in 1995. ELISE RHODES | 1965-2024
