USG Alumni Spotlight

Shawn Lavin | USG Treasurer, 27th Legislature (2003-04)

Former USG Treasurer Shawn Lavin declared victory in the Amherst Town Supervisor election on November 4, 2025, marking a step up from his previous role as deputy supervisor.

Lavin, who has served under current supervisor Brian Kulpa, campaigned on a platform focused on thoughtful neighborhood development, investment in road and bridge repairs, protecting essential services and overall quality of life, and strengthening transparency and efficiency within town government.

He was first elected to the Amherst Town Board in 2017. In addition to his elected service, Lavin has served in the Air National Guard, worked as the Director of Veterans Affairs, and currently serves as the Deputy Commissioner of Personnel.

Lavin will succeed Brian Kulpa, who is concluding his second term as town supervisor.

Brian Hartman | USG President, 15th Legislature (1991-92)

SUNY Buffalo State’s Communication Department inducted ABC News senior coordinating producer Brian Hartman into its Hall of Fame during the department’s Hall of Fame and Honor Society Induction Ceremony on November 7, 2025.

Hartman was honored for his exceptional national contributions to the field of communication. Over nearly three decades at ABC News, he has served as a reporter, producer, and newsgathering leader, covering major breaking news and weather events for World News Tonight, Good Morning America, Nightline, 20/20, and the streaming channel ABC News Live.

A former Hamburg and Buffalo resident, Hartman studied political science at Buffalo State, where he was deeply involved in campus life: as a reporter for The Record, a music DJ at WBNY-FM, president of the United Students Government, a student member of the Buffalo State College Council, and a delegate to the New York State Student Assembly.