Timothy Tryjankowski

Timothy Tryjankowski, a proud graduate of the GSE’s higher education administration program (now known as higher education and student affairs program), recently concluded a distinguished 33-year career in state service, leaving an indelible mark on the UB community.

Tryjankowski's journey began as a legislative aide in the New York State Senate, where he met D. Bruce Johnstone, SUNY Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Higher and Comparative Education at UB. “He was a very approachable person, and he had a conversation with me about my future career aspirations. I enrolled in the UB GSE program part-time while working full-time for a WNY Senator,” Tryjankowski said. “Dr. Johnstone encouraged me to bring real political and constituent issues to the classroom and showed me how higher education and the UB programs could connect the theoretical to the practical. I applied that to every position I held at UB.”

Over the years, he took on numerous leadership roles at UB, each focused on enhancing student experiences and fostering academic excellence.

Starting as the coordinator of student unions in Student Life, Tryjankowski’s dedication to student engagement was evident. He then advanced to the position of director of recruitment for the School of Law, and later, as associate director of undergraduate admissions, he played a pivotal role in shaping the future of UB’s student body.

However, it was his creation and leadership of the former Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (CURCA) at UB that showcased his visionary approach. As the director of CURCA, Tryjankowski established the Celebration of Student Academic Excellence and introduced the accompanying poster showcase, providing students with a platform to present their research. His initiative extended beyond UB, as he pioneered state-wide student research showcases for the SUNY-wide Faculty Senate, collaborating with the Office of the SUNY Chancellor.

“Implementing the undergrad program CURCA here at UB was my proudest achievement,” he said.

In his next chapter at UB’s Honors College, Tryjankowski continued to champion student research as the director of honors research. His commitment to shared governance was recognized by his peers, who elected him chair of UB’s Professional Staff Senate in the Office of Shared Governance. His tenure in this role underscored his dedication to fostering a collaborative campus environment while participating in committee work at the state-wide level—something he is still proud of today.

Working with students and witnessing their growth and achievements has also been a rewarding aspect of his career. “I cherish my work with students and being able to follow where those I worked with are now,” he said.

He is still in touch with several of those students today, including Algappan (Al) Subramanian, BS '00. “Al and his family came to my house for dinner last summer. I was humbled by his donation back to UB and his kind memory of my influence on him.”

Retiring in July 2023, Tryjankowski remains involved in the UB and Buffalo communities. “I still work part-time for UB Athletics as a security/customer service person for UB men's and women’s basketball coaches on game days and the G suite for football games. I am also a guest experience supervisor and stadium tour guide for the NFL Buffalo Bills,” he explained.

“As a former college athlete at Xavier University, I just love being around student-athletes and talking to them about the dedication and discipline they exude in mastering the busy schedule of athletics and education,” he continued. “I think those who work hard to balance all of that are setting themselves up for dynamic careers in their chosen fields. I know learning to have that balance and efficient use of time as an 18-year-old in college prepared me for all that I was able to juggle in my professional life.”

As a GSE alumnus, Tryjankowski exemplifies the impact dedicated educators and administrators can have on higher education. His contributions have enriched the UB community and set a benchmark for student research initiatives across the SUNY system.

His advice for students and young professionals aspiring to make an impact in higher education?

“Treat everyone with dignity and respect, from the campus president to the cleaning staff,” he said. “We are all in this together to help the students and, in turn, the world we live in.”