In the Spotlight: Curt Gaume
Jennifer Dwire
HESC is pleased to shine the Fall 2008 spotlight on Curt Gaume, Director of Financial Aid at Canisius College and the next NYSFAAA President.
Curt started in financial aid 31 years ago. At the time he was a school counselor at Cardinal O’Hara High School in Buffalo, but at the urging of a friend who had just made the leap from high school to college administration, Curt joined Bryant and Stratton Business Institute as a Financial Aid Counselor. After two years working in the Buffalo Office, Curt was promoted to Corporate Director of Financial Aid. Then, in 1987 Curt moved to his current position at Canisius College, Director of Financial Aid.
For Curt, the most important and enjoyable elements of his work are the relationships he cultivates with his financial aid team and the families and students they help. “The entire staff is so dedicated. They process the various aid programs very efficiently, but most of all they take pride in being able to help and counsel students.”
Curt brings energy and enthusiasm to his profession; he has since the very beginning.
“I get excited by the never ending challenges of our profession. We have been challenged this past year and half from within and without in ways I do not believe our profession has ever seen. I am proud of how we as a community have come together and stood tall, remaining proud of whom we are and what we stand for: namely, the students that we serve.”
Active in a variety of industry organizations through the years, Curt has played many roles and shouldered many responsibilities. At NYSFAAA, before assuming the mantle of President, Curt devoted time to the responsibilities of several offices including Chairperson of the Budget Committee and Regional Chairperson and Treasurer of the Executive Council. At the College Board, he’s served in capacities that include Chair of the Middle States Regional Council and member of the National Election Committee for the College Scholarship Service. In addition, Curt has played active roles in NASFAA, EASFAA, and at the U.S. Department of Education.
When it comes to volunteering, Curt appreciates the opportunity to meet many people from different backgrounds and experiences.
“Over the years, I have learned so much from those that I have met through the various committees I have been able to serve on.”
Most of all, Curt enjoys being around family. He and his wife, Chris, have two wonderful children, Ken and Judy, and two grandchildren, Ken’s daughter and son, Maddie Grace and Andrew. During the summer months, you’ll probably catch Curt on the golf course with his nephews and enjoying a Buffalo Fish Fry afterward.
“Perhaps it isn’t the most exciting life but, just being with family and friends fills me with a lot of happiness.”
Thank you Curt for the lives you’ve touched and the doors you’ve opened for students and families through the years.
HESC congratulates you and wishes you well in your new role as NYSFAAA President.