People Spotlights

Graduate student assistant Jordan Stanford has long been drawn to libraries. Now a student worker in the University Libraries, he’s contributing to projects that bring those historical materials to life for others. 

Friendly, determined and patient. That’s how Afifa Roja, a third-year neuroscience major at UB, describes herself.

From the first rush of students in the morning to late-night study sessions, UB Libraries are alive with energy, ideas and innovation.

Niko Martinez-Saroff is pursuing a master’s degree in school librarianship at UB and will graduate in fall 2026.

For Nolan Mattison, a well-preserved collection of ancient coins has become the centerpiece of a transformative research journey.

Nichols has been a part of UB’s story for nearly two decades, bringing his passion for learning and teaching to every role he’s taken on.

As the only data services librarian, Jocelyn Swick-Jemison combines her love of teaching, technical expertise, and passion for supporting researchers in a role vital to UB’s academic mission.

After spending five years in New York City, the Amherst native found himself back on UB’s campus—just around the corner from where he grew up.

Please join us in congratulating Pajak as she embarks on a well-deserved retirement from the University Libraries.

The university has been an integral part of Hollister's life, whether as a student, student worker, visiting librarian, or librarian for more than 15 years.