Rivier University honors Joseph Wozniak ’76 with 2026 Sister Madeleine of Jesus Award
Dedicated alumnus, community leader, and benefactor recognized for his commitment to service and student success.
From left, Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President, and Joseph Wozniak ’76.
The Rivier University Alumni Association honored Joseph Wozniak ’76 with the 2026 Sister Madeleine of Jesus Award during the Alumni Luncheon at Reunion Weekend. The highest honor presented by the Alumni Association, the prestigious award recognizes Wozniak’s longstanding commitment to Rivier and a lifetime of leadership, service, and philanthropy.
Wozniak’s connection to Rivier spans more than five decades. He first attended the University through the Federal Aviation Administration program and earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science in 1976. Since then, his relationship with Rivier has continued through numerous leadership and volunteer roles, including service on the University’s Board of Trustees and Alumni Council and as Chair of the Rivier Annual Fund Campaign. Through his involvement, Wozniak has helped advance Rivier’s mission, strengthen its future, and champion student success.
His dedication to service extends well beyond the University. Following his service in the United States Air Force as a radar technician, Wozniak joined the Federal Aviation Administration, where he devoted more than 32 years of government service as a Systems Engineer and later as a National Airspace System Operations Manager. In these roles, he contributed to advancing the technologies and operations supporting the nation’s air traffic infrastructure.
Wozniak also dedicated more than two decades to public service in southern New Hampshire. After making Hudson his home, he became deeply involved in the community. His leadership included roles with the Hudson Trustees of Trust Funds, Hudson Board of Selectmen, Hudson Town Council, and Nashua Regional Planning Commission, where his service contributed to fiscal stewardship, community planning, and policy development.
A strong believer in the transformative power of education, Wozniak established the Wozniak Family Scholarship in memory of former Rivier President Sister Clarice Dion. The scholarship assists students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to serving others. Through this support, Wozniak and his family have helped Rivier students overcome financial barriers and pursue opportunities that can have a lasting impact on their lives.
As an alumnus, trustee, community leader, and benefactor, Wozniak exemplifies Rivier’s tradition of service and commitment to others. His decades of dedication to the University and the greater community reflect the spirit of the Sister Madeleine of Jesus Award and a legacy of leading with purpose, serving generously, and making a lasting difference.