Buffalo State University Athletics

1951-1971 

- As a freshman in 1970, Bob Kissinger became the first Buffalo State swimmer to win a SUNYAC title by winning the 100 and 200 yard freestyle events in the conference meet at New Paltz. 

- As a sophomore, he led the Bengals to their first ever conference team title by winning the 50 and 100 yard freestyle races in both Buffalo State College and conference record times. He also anchored the winning 400 yard freestyle relay. 

- At the beginning of the 1971-1972 swimming season Kissinger was diagnosed with terminal cancer and died November 27, 1971. 

- Shortly after his death the faculty, staff, and student body petitioned SUNY Central, in Albany, recommending the naming of the swimming pool at Buffalo State College in his honor and memory. Within a month that recommendation was granted. 

- Financial donations by faculty, friends, and students in Bob’s memory perpetuate his name each year when a BSC swimmer is given the Robert Kissinger Award. It is presented annually to a swimmer who most exemplifies Bob’s attributes of: Swimmer-Student-Friend.