John Wesh fitting a dress on a form

"My favorite activity has been volunteering...During the weekdays, I helped kids with homework. On the weekends, I helped older people with their citizenship class."

Meet John

Fashion and Textile Technology

Building Active Citizens

Buffalo State is SUNY’s urban-engaged campus.

We provide unique leadership opportunities through hands-on research, community-engaged learning, and internships. We strive to foster a sense of civic responsibility and empower our students to become active citizens who make a positive impact in Buffalo and beyond!

Students holding hands in a circle
Anne Frank Project
Anne Frank Project

Our social justice festival, school workshops, and international study trips use stories as vehicles for community
building, conflict resolution, and identity exploration.

Student group outside on Alternative Break
Service-Learning and Community-Engaged Learning
Service-Learning and Community-Engaged Learning

Learn about community and social issues and gain leadership skills.

500K+

Hours of community engagement

2,500

Students in service-learning courses

100+

Community partners

900+

Student internships

Professor showing student lab

Academic Impact

Our engaged faculty, dedicated to student learning, prepare students to positively contribute to their local and global communities.

Convocation students cheering

Economic Impact

More than half our alumni live and work in Western New York, increasing the economic value of our region's labor force.

Student planting in a community garden

Social Impact

Social commitment has been embedded in our campus culture for more than a century.

Students dance performance on stage

Cultural Impact

We’re proud to partner with local arts organizations in celebrating creativity.