Maher Ice BucketFather Maher was challenged by the Rev. Dennis H. Holtschneider, C.M., president of DePaul University. Father Holtschneider graduated from Niagara University in 1985, and later served as executive vice president of his alma mater from 2000-2004.

Father Maher accepted the challenge (300 of his closest friends) in memory of late Niagara University athletic trainer Ray Kist, who died in 1995 after a long battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

The event was included as part of NU’s New Student Orientation, which continued through Labor Day. Today is the first day of classes at NU.

The buckets for the challenge were donated by Home Depot, while ice was contributed from Sodexo.

Father Maher, as is customary with individuals completing the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, issued a challenge to Dr. Tim Downs, provost and chief academic officer, and Dr. Hung Le, vice president for international relations.

 Be sure to visit the NU site for a variety of views of 300 people joining in.