About Kevin Kuwik

Kevin Kuwik: A Hometown Hero from Lackawanna, NY

Kevin Kuwik’s life story is a masterclass in resilience, dedication, and service. Born April 20, 1974, in Lackawanna, NY, a close-knit community nestled near Buffalo, Kevin’s remarkable path weaves together his love for basketball, his time in military service, and his role as a passionate advocate for safer skies. Whether on the court, in a combat zone, or lobbying Congress, Kuwik has carried the spirit of Buffalo with him every step of the way.

From Lackawanna to the Basketball Sidelines

Growing up in Lackawanna, Kuwik was surrounded by teachers, coaches, and mentors who inspired his passion for sports and leadership. His father served as the city’s mayor, and several relatives worked in education and coaching. This environment laid the foundation for Kevin’s love of basketball and his lifelong commitment to influencing positive change both on and off the court.

Kevin attended the University of Notre Dame on an ROTC scholarship and graduated summa cum laude in 1996 with a degree in mechanical engineering. Though his future could have included a career in engineering, his three years as a student assistant under Irish basketball coach John MacLeod cemented his dream of becoming a coach.

Over the years, Kuwik climbed the coaching ladder, holding positions with prominent programs like Ohio University, Dayton, Davidson, and Ohio State. His basketball résumé includes trips to the NCAA Tournament and even a Cinderella run to the Elite Eight with Dayton in 2014. Today, he stands as the head coach for Army West Point’s men’s basketball team, bringing his decades of experience to inspire young athletes.

A Call to Serve

Kevin’s story isn’t just about basketball—it’s one of service and sacrifice. A Distinguished Military Graduate of Notre Dame’s ROTC program, Kuwik served 10 years in the Army, including an 18-month deployment to Iraq as a captain with the Indiana National Guard’s 113th Engineer Battalion.

During his deployment, Kuwik and his team conducted high-stakes missions to protect roads from improvised explosive devices (IEDs). His leadership and bravery earned him a Bronze Star for meritorious service. Even in the chaos of war, basketball remained close to his heart; Kuwik used leave time to return to Ohio University to watch the team he helped build win the 2005 Mid-American Conference title and secure an NCAA Tournament appearance.

Kuwik’s military service exemplifies his unwavering commitment to teamwork, leadership, and responsibility—qualities he continues to instill in his players today.

Turning Tragedy into Advocacy

Kevin Kuwik’s life took a devastating turn on February 12, 2009. His girlfriend, Lorin Maurer, was killed in the crash of Colgan Air Flight 3407, which claimed 50 lives just outside Buffalo. Maurer was traveling to join Kuwik for his brother’s wedding—a joyful occasion tragically overshadowed by the senseless loss.

Devastated but determined, Kuwik joined the families of other victims in advocating for stricter aviation safety standards. His relentless lobbying efforts alongside the “3407 Families” led to the passage of the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010. The legislation required pilots to log more flight hours, undergo stricter training, and receive adequate rest before flights.

For Kuwik, this advocacy work was deeply personal. It was a way to honor Lorin’s memory and ensure that no other family would have to endure the pain caused by preventable errors. His tireless work left a lasting mark on U.S. aviation policy and demonstrated the power of turning grief into meaningful action.

Rooted in Buffalo’s Spirit

Through all of his experiences, Kuwik has remained a proud son of Buffalo and Lackawanna. His upbringing in Western New York gave him the determination and resilience to face life’s challenges head-on. Whether coaching young athletes, serving his country, or fighting for justice, Kuwik embodies the values that define Buffalo’s spirit—grit, loyalty, and heart.

Kevin Kuwik’s life is a testament to the difference one person can make across multiple arenas. His impact stretches far beyond the basketball court, touching lives through his military service, his advocacy for safer aviation, and his ongoing mentorship of student-athletes. For his hometown of Lackawanna and the greater Buffalo community, Kevin Kuwik stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unyielding power of doing what’s right.

There’s no doubt that Buffalo will always cheer for one of its own, whether Kevin is on the sidelines coaching or continuing his mission to make the world a better place.