A Tribute to the late Patricia H. Garman, MS '79

This past year the University at Buffalo School of Nursing mourned the loss of one of our beloved alumna, Patricia H. Garman, MS ’79. This was a great loss for our school as well as the Western New York community that she loved so dearly. Mrs. Garman was an unwavering supporter of the School of Nursing through her generosity of time and her philanthropy in the establishment of the Patricia H. Garman Behavioral Nursing Endowment Fund. Since its establishment in 2003, the Garman Endowment has funded 22 pilot studies. Faculty have leveraged this funding into external grant funded projects totaling over $1 Million. Because of Pat’s commitment and generosity many people have benefited from the research that is done in her name. With the recent addition of a generous bequest, more faculty will be able to advance and promote their research. Mr. and Mrs. Garman also established the Patricia H. and Richard E. Garman Professorship in the School of Nursing. This will enable the School to continue its tradition of academic excellence and advance our strategic growth by attracting key faculty members who will lead the way in educating future nurse clinicians, educators and researchers. Dean Lewis stated, “Mrs. Garman has left behind a powerful legacy and she will truly be missed.”

To acknowledge Mrs. Garman’s many contributions to the school and the nursing profession, we have created an award in her name. The Patricia H. Garman Award for Excellence and Service in Nursing has been established to honor her memory and all that she exemplified as a role model, patient advocate, and tireless volunteer for the University, for our School and in our community. The recipients of this award will embody the mission, vision and values of the School and the nursing profession.

The inaugural award was given to Connie Vari, DNP, MBA ‘04, MS ‘97, BS ‘94, at our Annual May Celebration on May 20, 2014 at the Jacob’s Executive Development Center. Dr. Vari was pleased to accept the award and stated that although she did not know Pat personally she knew of her “passion and commitment for service and leadership in our community.” She went on to state, “Pat’s generous gifts of time, treasure and talent, tireless advocacy for women, and the scientific advancement of our nursing profession are her legacy and will continue to challenge us all. This award will always remind me of the importance and privilege of giving back to our school, our profession and our community.”