D’Youville University Welcomes Two New Members to the Board of Trustees

D'Youville University proudly announces the appointment of two accomplished leaders, John Ticco and Michelle Swygert-Seay, to its Board of Trustees. Beginning their three-year terms on June 1, 2026, both bring a wealth of professional experience, community engagement, and a shared commitment to advancing the university’s mission of innovation, service, and academic excellence.

Dr. Michelle Swygert-Seay, DNP – Healthcare Leader and D’Youville Alumna

Dr. Michelle Swygert-Seay, DNP brings extensive experience in healthcare, patient advocacy, and community leadership to the Board. A proud D’Youville alumna, she earned both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice from the university, in addition to a Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from the University at Buffalo.

Swygert-Seay currently serves as a Clinical Patient Care Liaison at Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), where she is a strong advocate for patient rights, education, and equitable care. Her career spans roles as a nurse practitioner, registered nurse, and healthcare administrator, including prior service as Director of the Health Center at D’Youville.

Her commitment to service extends well beyond her professional work. Swygert-Seay has been recognized with numerous honors, including the NAACP Buffalo Black Achievers Award and ECMC Employee of the Year. She remains actively engaged in the community through leadership roles with professional nursing organizations, advisory boards, and her longstanding involvement with D’Youville’s alumni network, including previous service on the Board of Trustees.

John Ticco – Associate Real Estate Broker, Pyramid Brokerage Company

John Ticco joins the Board as a respected leader in commercial real estate and an active contributor to the Western New York Community. A Buffalo native, Ticco graduated from Miami University of Ohio with a degree in finance before joining Pyramid Brokerage Company in 2011, where he has since built a successful career and currently serves as Associate Real Estate Broker and Director of Sales for the firm’s Buffalo office.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Ticco is deeply committed to community service. He is the founder of Friends of Carly, a nonprofit organization supporting pediatric cancer awareness and local families, and has been actively involved with organizations including Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo. A Buffalo Business First “30 Under 30” honoree, Ticco also serves on the Kaleida Health Foundation Board and participates in numerous charitable initiatives throughout the region.

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“We are honored to welcome Michelle Swygert-Seay and John Ticco to the D’Youville University Board of Trustees,” said Stephen Mercurio, Chair of the D’Youville Board of Trustees. “Both bring exceptional professional expertise and a deep commitment to service. Their leadership and perspective will play an important role as we continue to build momentum and expand our impact across the region and beyond.”

About D’Youville University 

D’Youville University is a nationally ranked private university founded in 1908 and headquartered in Buffalo, New York, which offers degrees in the health sciences and business. D’Youville University promotes a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Through transformational educational experiences, students are prepared for growth, career success, and upward mobility. For more information, visit dyu.edu.