Q&A - Marist Magazine chats with Kevin and Beth Weinman about the Fund for Equity
In April, Kevin and Beth Weinman announced a second gift pledge to the Presidential Fund for Equity in the Marist Experience (the “Equity Fund”). This $500,000 pledge augments the founding gift of $250,000 they made in December 2021. Since then, over 300 students with demonstrated financial need have received grants allowing them to enroll in “travel courses” or take unpaid internships vital for career preparation. The Weinmans’ gifts, alongside hundreds of others from Marist trustees, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends, as well as future gifts to the Fund will help ensure support remains available to Marist students.
Q: What inspires you to give to Marist?
K & B: Everyone in the Marist community – students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parents – has inspired us from our very first day. We believe deeply in this College – its achievements to date, and its promise for the future. Gifts to Marist have tremendous impact on the student experience. Marist has long been an institution on the rise – a College worth supporting – and the ambitious vision outlined in Marist 100 charts a path to even greater heights. We are honored to be here and to join so many others in providing financial support to help Marist reach its fullest potential.
Q: Why the Equity Fund?
K: Because I’ve seen that the Equity Fund works! Students often tell me how enriching and rewarding their internships are in their career preparation. Also, I recently returned from drop-ins to three travel courses, one in Athens and two in London, and was blown away by the rich learning environment. Student and faculty enthusiasm was off the charts!
Also, the Equity Fund hits upon all three pillars of Marist 100. Travel courses and internships speak to “academic vibrancy” by giving students immersive learning opportunities and faculty the opportunity to design innovative curricula, to “student centrality” by directing 100% of these resources to support an outstanding student experience, and to “expansive community,” both by bringing Marist to the world and the world to Marist and by attracting immensely talented faculty and students from all backgrounds to the Marist community.
Spring 2024 Attachment Course: Shakespeare in London
B: As someone who was fortunate to travel extensively throughout the former Soviet Union and Europe before and during college, I find Marist’s travel courses, which provide life-changing experiential learning opportunities, intriguing. These experiences opened my eyes to people and cultures beyond our own. I also know from our son Alex’s experience that some students prefer a short immersive international visit rather than semester or year-long study abroad, and these courses allow several hundred Marist students to do just that, every year.
Spring 2024 Attachment Course: Democracy in Greece
Q: What would you say to others who are considering their own forms of support to Marist?
K & B: As they consider a gift to Marist, we encourage alumni, parents, and friends to think about what inspires them most about a Marist education and what would bring them the most satisfaction from a supporting gift. For us, it’s the Equity Fund, and, of course, we invite others to support the Equity Fund as well. But we understand others might prefer to support any number of other Marist 100 priorities. In any instance, a gift of any size makes a difference. It shows confidence in Marist and its mission and makes a huge difference for our students. We invite everyone to consider joining us in supporting Marist College, in ways and at amounts meaningful to them.
Support the Presidential Equity Fund by making your gift today!
New members help Marist achieve its vision of improving the world through education
Marist College is excited to announce the addition of four distinguished individuals to its Board of Trustees. Formally elected during the Board’s December 9 annual meeting, these accomplished professionals come from diverse backgrounds and industries, bringing a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to helping Marist achieve its vision of improving the world through education.
“We are delighted to welcome these new members,” said Ross Mauri ’80/P’15, Chair of the Marist Board of Trustees. “Through their collective expertise and dedication to Marist they will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the College as we bring to life the many bold initiatives outlined in our new strategic plan, Marist 100.”
Added Marist President Kevin Weinman: “I am particularly excited about the variety of ways this distinguished group of new trustees has been involved with the College – as parents, alumni of both undergraduate and graduate programs, through athletics and many other elements of the Marist experience, as advisory board members, and as mentors to our students. I look forward to the many ways they will bring their extensive professional expertise into the board room, and to working with them to bring Marist to greater heights.”
From Classroom Project to Public Opinion Powerhouse
With a history steeped in accuracy and endurance, the Marist Poll and its students have contributed to public discourse for decades, a trend that continues this election cycle – when Americans vote in a historically unique election, witnessing a rematch between the current president, Joe Biden, and his immediate predecessor, Donald Trump.
Known as a steadfast beacon of information, the Marist Poll is responsible for far more than just handling elections. As it continues to adapt and evolve to new challenges, the Poll remains dedicated to its student-centered approach, providing them with unparalleled learning opportunities and experiences.
Origins of the Poll
The Marist Institute for Public Opinion (MIPO), home of the Marist Poll started as a classroom project in the original Fontaine Hall on campus and blossomed into an educational program that is unique to Marist.
“The project began with a handful of undergraduate students taking exit polls in Dutchess County,” said Dr. Lee M. Miringoff, Director of the Marist Institute for Public Opinion (MIPO), home of the Marist Poll. “But because of its accuracy and success, it quickly evolved into a New York State poll and nationally recognized source of public opinion.”
Miringoff founded the Institute in 1978. He is now in his 50th year at Marist and is a sought-after analyst by the media, providing his expertise on polls, elections, and the dynamics of American politics.
Over its 46-year history, thousands of Marist College students have participated in polling, workshops, courses and seminars, field trips, and internships. Today, Marist Poll is proud to have more than 400 students on its team each semester.
Election 2024: What’s at Stake
MIPO has always been on the cusp of experiential learning, and this election cycle is no different. To help students understand the unique nuances of public polls and the 2024 election, the Marist Poll team and Miringoff’s students spent this spring semester writing questions for a series of national Marist Polls.
“The 2024 Presidential Election is unprecedented,” said Miringoff. “Not only has it been decades since our country has had a presidential ‘re-do,’ but one of those candidates is a former president convicted of felonies, and the other is an incumbent with low approval ratings. Public opinion will be important in guiding public debate and helping illuminate shifts in the electorate.”
MIPO published 13 national polls, conducted with NPR and PBS News, and nine battleground state polls published this academic year. They focused on the 2024 presidential election, giving students inside the classroom and the Marist Poll Center a first-hand look at the dynamics of a presidential campaign.
For current student Ethan Solury ’26, poll results have aided his understanding of where Americans are right now. "Everything is all over the place so it’s hard to really know what to expect,” said the political science major. “But the polling data helps us to consider what questions voters still have and what is most important to them as we head toward election day.”
In such a hotly contested election year, emotions are running high, and public polls are center stage. According to Dr. Barbara Carvalho, Director of the Marist Poll, students are learning about the science of measuring public opinion and the art of holding space for differing opinions.
“Our students have a great deal of respect for differing political views,” said Carvalho. “Here they can learn from each other and engage in open-minded discussions. The Poll helps them listen and analytically understand the opinions of their peers.”
As director, Carvalho is dedicated to this experience for students, ensuring that the Marist Poll is anchored in intellectual growth and innovation, excellence in education, and focused on community engagement and service.
While the Marist Poll's preparation for the 2024 election has played a lead role recently, she underscores it is just one example of how the Marist Poll embraces Marist College’s commitment to foster democratic participation and an informed citizenry.
“Thousands of Marist students have benefitted and will continue to benefit from the distinctive, hands-on learning opportunities offered through the Marist Poll,” she said. “This includes polling research, analysis, and communication. Students participate in seminars and internships with industry experts and have even attended historic election events.”
Unparalleled Access to American Democracy
This winter, 34 Marist students from a host of majors were given unparalleled access to American democracy during the Marist Poll’s quadrennial trip to New Hampshire for the presidential primaries. Their travel experience included political rallies, national media events, and exclusive question-and-answer sessions with some of the foremost names in political journalism such as Philip Bump, columnist for The Washington Post, Dana Bash, anchor and chief political correspondent for CNN, and Steve Thomma, Executive Director of the White House Correspondents’ Association.
Students also went behind the scenes with national news outlets and attended live productions of NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker and MSNBC’s Inside with Jen Psaki. Those anchors also answered students’ questions, as did NBC’s chief political analyst Chuck Todd.
“This trip takes us out of the classroom and puts us right in the middle of the presidential primary,” said Miringoff. “It provides students with a bird’s-eye view of retail politics at its finest – a unique educational experience.”
The Marist Poll’s New Hampshire primary trip has taken place each presidential election cycle since 2012. Two students participated in the first trip, and it has grown exponentially over time.
First-year student and survey assistant Christopher DeVizio ’27 sees trips like this as providing access that will pave the way for his future and career. “As a political science major, I’m getting a front row seat to a historical election process," he said. “Honestly, the opportunity to potentially work for the Marist Poll served as a deciding factor in my decision to attend Marist. I knew that the overall opportunity and the networking aspect could really help to propel my career into politics.”
Alumnus Brian Smith ’95 is living proof that DeVizio’s dreams can become reality. His decades-long career in healthcare has led him to serve as Executive Director of Alliance Development and Strategy Advocacy for Merck. He says the Poll played a huge role in his personal success.
“The Marist Poll was, and is, a recognizable name and gives students a leg up in any interview process or job search,” he said. “For me, it not only opened the door, but it also got me through the door. It’s an unmatched experience."
Embracing Evolution
While experiential learning has and always will play a role in preparing students for life after Marist, Mary Griffith, Associate Director of MIPO, says the field of polling is always changing. This requires the Marist Poll to constantly evolve its methodology in capturing opinion data and its approach to how it reaches different segments of the population.
“The computer and communications revolution has changed over the years, and we have as well,” said Griffith. “We have had to evolve our methods to reach people effectively, capture accurate opinion data, and communicate our poll results.”
The Marist Poll uses a rigorous, scientific-based, multi-frame approach in its survey methodology. It has expanded its projects to include the creation of GenNext, a survey of young Americans that is conceived and conducted by young Americans. The goal of this survey is to compare how the priorities of the nation’s future leaders compare with those currently at the helm.
"There are some existing surveys that focus on younger people, but we thought it would be much more insightful to give young people the chance to decide what topics and questions to ask their peers," said Jay DeDapper, MIPO’s Director of Strategy and Innovation, who led the initiative. With a clear dedication to student centrality, Marist Poll also launched a weekly podcast called, “Poll Hub," which is produced by the Institute’s talented group of student media assistants.
Recent graduate Athen Hollis ’24 began working on the Marist Poll podcast her sophomore year. She grew from researcher to producer, and her duties included researching segments, booking guests, and writing segments and social media posts.
“My combined experience has equipped me to tackle anything that involves social media and research,” she said. “These opportunities are unparalleled and will help me in whatever direction my career takes me.”
About the Marist Institute for Public Opinion
The Marist Institute for Public Opinion, home of the Marist Poll, is a survey research center on the Marist campus. The Marist Poll regularly measures public opinion at the local, state, and national level. Founded in 1978, the Institute was the first college-based research center to include undergraduates in conducting survey research. Today, Marist Poll is proud to have more than 400 students on its team each semester.
The success of the Marist Poll is recognized worldwide by journalists and academics. The Marist Poll has been rated number one for accuracy by Bloomberg Politics and has consistently received an “A” rating from ABC News’ FiveThirtyEight.
Former student-athlete Sydney Coffey ’16 is not just a talented basketball player; she is a visionary entrepreneur who has carved out a unique space for herself in the world of fashion. As the founder of Morlé - meaning “more legs” - a clothing brand tailored exclusively for tall women, Coffey has seamlessly blended her passion for sports with her love for fashion, creating a unique brand that resonates with both female athletes and fashion enthusiasts.
“I turned my dreams into reality,” said Coffey. “With Morlé I want to revolutionize the fashion industry by advocating for tall women. Together we can reshape beauty standards and provide an unmatched experience of style and empowerment."
Growing up in Hopkins, Minnesota, Coffey was immersed in basketball from an early age. Her father, Richard Coffey, played in the NBA (National Basketball Association), setting the stage for Sydney’s athletic career. She excelled on the court, leading her high school team to three state championships, and earning a scholarship to play DI basketball at Marist College.
While at Marist, Coffey succeeded as a dedicated fashion merchandising major, balancing the demands of being a student-athlete while pursuing her love for fashion. She studied communications with a focus on fashion design, laying the groundwork for her future as an entrepreneur.
After college, Coffey took her athletic talents overseas to play professionally, where she continued to scout the intersection of sports and fashion, noticing a specific target market – tall women like her – that was not being explored. It was during these overseas adventures in 2020 that Morlé was officially born.
“I was traveling the world hearing the same stories over and over again from women my height and taller, stories about how difficult it is to find clothing we can feel good about,” said Coffey. “Now, Morlé creates a space for women to embrace their height and find a sense of community, too.”
Coffey and the brand have quickly gained traction, thanks to its innovative designs. Coffey’s visions further materialized this spring when Morlé debuted at the Women’s Final Four Tip-Off Fashion Show in Cleveland, Ohio. Dedicated to tall women and athletes, the event provided Coffey with a unique networking opportunity where she was surrounded by female athletes and spoke directly with the customers she hopes to serve.
“Having my first fashion show at the Final Four was incredibly meaningful,” she said. “I met so many women who didn’t know this type of fashion existed before that day. Now, they know Morlé is one of the brands that can provide them with the clothing they’re looking for.”
According to Marist Women’s Basketball Coach Erin Doughty ’06 ’08M, Coffey is redefining what it means to be a business owner in the world of fashion. “Her journey from student-athlete to successful entrepreneur is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in her potential,” said Doughty. “She saw a need in the fashion industry and decided to create a brand that focused on stylish clothing for tall women like herself. I am not surprised at all by the quick growth of her company, and I know it will continue to thrive under her leadership.”
Now enrolled in graduate school in London, England, Diana Kazarian ’24 represents Marist’s 95% success rate for new alumni.
Spring in Poughkeepsie. Summer in Venice. Fall in London.
It’s only been a few short months since her emotional Commencement in May, but Diana Kazarian ’24 has already been pursuing new artistic heights, bringing her creative vision and curatorial talents to life on the world stage and defining success on her own terms.
“Finishing one chapter is always emotional,” she said. “But you can’t grow by
staying in one place. I knew there was so much ahead—Venice and London were calling.”
Now equipped with her bachelor’s degree, Diana admits that her Marist experience was both a fundamental part of her artistic development, as well as a huge shift from her life in Krasnodar, a city in the south of Russia, where she was born.
“My time at Marist was multifaceted and diverse,” Diana said. “It was a huge change from my previous life, but it was exactly what I needed.”
While at Marist, Diana grew both academically and creatively, jumping on each new opportunity that came her way.
In 2023, she became the first student to curate the annual faculty exhibition, despite having no prior curatorial experience.
“Like a sculptor faced with a new medium, she embraced the challenge and learned to navigate the complexities of curation and interpersonal dynamics with finesse,” said Professor Ed Smith, who taught Dianna’s 3D design course.
But her unique experiences continued, and within a few short weeks of earning her degree, Diana, along with 16 Marist students, flew to Venice, Italy, as part of the Marist Venice Biennale Program. This experiential learning opportunity allowed her and her fellow Marist students to integrate complex art elements and perspectives at one of the most prestigious cultural events in the world.
For Diana, her role as spectator at the Biennale continued to build momentum for the curatorial prowess she developed as a student at Marist and highlighted her emerging role as a transformative force in the art world.
Smith describes her evolution with admiration. “Every piece she has created was deeply thought out and bordering on genius. The more she worked, the more formidable she became,” he said.
A leader among her peers, Diana often sought out Ed’s advice, leaning into his role as mentor and eventually expressing her desire to pursue art in graduate school.
“I encouraged her to aim for the best,” he said. Together, they spent weeks shaping her proposal for the Royal College of Art, a prestigious arts and design college located in London, England.
Smith was not at all surprised when Diana was accepted. “She’s a rare talent. Her commitment to her craft, her vision—it’s all singular and brilliant.”
Now, as Diana pursues her curatorial studies in London, she joins the 95% of Marist Alumni who are employed or attending graduate school within six months of graduation. She’s fresh on the heels of earning her degree and focused on exploring and refining her unique artistic voice.
Reflecting on her early experiences, Diana is determined to continue shaping the art world with every project and exhibit she undertakes.
“I don’t believe in limiting myself with a single definition of success. To define is to limit,”
she said. “Ed always taught us that it’s the small steps, the ongoing dialogue between opportunities and what we as artists can give back, that matters most.”
Former Marist Rower Makes Olympic Debut with Win for Team USA in 2024
Chris Carlson, a key member of the Marist men’s rowing team from 2015 to 2017, secured a bronze medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France.
Carlson rowed in the 5-seat of the USA Heavyweight Eight, finishing with a time of 5:25.28.
This marked Carlson’s Olympic debut, and he has now competed on six U.S. National teams.
“It starts out as a dream. I watched Michael Phelps in 2008 when he won eight gold medals. You hold onto that Olympic dream for a really long time,” said Carlson of his win. “I was really grateful for all the messages and support from the Marist community, my teammates from Marist, and the athletics department.”
At Marist, Carlson rowed in both the Varsity Four and Varsity Eight. In both seasons, he participated in the IRA Championships with the Varsity Four and won the MAAC championship in the Varsity Eight in 2016. He also set a new school record in the 2K Erg test, breaking a record that had stood for over 15 years.
In the summer of 2017, Carlson was chosen to compete in the U.S. Rowing U23 National Team Selection Camp. The previous year, he rowed with the U23 development team at Vesper Rowing Club.
Originally from Bedford, New Hampshire, Carlson rowed at Brewster Academy, where he was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame. He later completed his collegiate rowing career at the University of Washington.
“This past summer it was exhilarating for me personally and for the members of the program and his classmates to watch Chris represent the USA on the world stage,” said Rowing Coach Campbell Woods. “Chris has a special genetic gift for rowing with high strength and stamina but it’s important to note that talent alone does not make an athlete; Chris was driven to succeed, and he was relentless in his pursuit of his training.”
Angel Macias Madrigal ’28 is pioneering the role as Marist’s first-ever Ralph Lauren Scholar
Angel Macias Madrigal ’28 is pioneering the role as Marist’s first-ever Ralph Lauren Scholar. The prestigious $100,000 scholarship, established by Ralph Lauren to support underrepresented students in fashion, covers tuition for four years and includes mentorship, an internship, and post-graduation opportunities with the company.
Angel, a native of Los Angeles, brings a unique background in both fashion and advocacy. A self-taught designer, he has several years of experience in garment construction and tailoring, alongside three years dedicated to Native American activism focused on social justice and representation. During high school, he also interned at a law firm, where he combined office duties with creative projects,including designing branded materials for community events.
Jennifer Finn, Chair of Marist’s Fashion Program, praised Angel, stating, “Angel’s thoughtful perspective and enthusiasm truly embody the spirit of our Fashion program. We are thrilled to see him thrive with the Ralph Lauren Design Scholars program.”
The Ralph Lauren Scholarship program at Marist aims to increase educational opportunities for underrepresented students in the fashion industry by removing financial barriers and providing resources and support. This scholarship is the latest collaboration between Marist and Ralph Lauren, building on last year’s initiative that allowed underrepresented high school students to take pre-college classes at Marist’s Poughkeepsie campus.
“I never imagined that my passion for fashion, largely self-taught, would lead to an award like this,” said Angel. “I’m eager to gain insights from my mentors and give back to Indigenous communities through my work in fashion. ”The scholarship allows me to pursue my love for design and explore academic interestslike psychology.
Marist is excited to announce the launch of the Marist Alumni Ambassador Program (MAAP), inviting alumni to help recruit future generations of Red Foxes.
Available to over 50,000 Marist alumni worldwide, the program supports new student recruitment and outreach, while providing alumni the opportunity to support Marist in a different way.
MAAP’s aim is to provide crucial support by engaging alumni in the recruitment process to identify and connect with talented prospective students. The program reinforces key goals outlined in Marist 100, supporting the talented and diverse faculty, staff, and students that underpin the Expansive Community pillar of the strategic plan.
“Working together with our alumni community as they share their passion for Marist with future Red Foxes reflects the ongoing impact on graduates,” said Corinne Schell ’83, Director of the Alumni Admission Program. “Their support signifies a commitment to the success of both individual alumni and Marist
as a whole.”
Alumni who join the program will collaborate with the Office of Admission by representing Marist at local college fairs, attending receptions, and participating in college sponsored events on and off campus. These personal connections made by alumni volunteers often inspire prospective students and families to join the Marist community.
“I became an ambassador to give back to Marist and stay connected with the changes since I graduated,” said Davis Ka’imipono Haas ’21, a resident of Hawaii. “It’s rewarding to use my experiences to help potential students see how Marist can shape their future. I love reassuring students here about the ‘mainland’ experience and providing guidance to those facing the challenges of being far from home.”
Interested in joining the program? Submit your application today!
Alumni Across Generations Celebrated Homecoming and Reunion Weekend
Homecoming & Reunion Weekend brought alumni home to reconnect with fellow Red Foxes over sports, music, food, and festivities. The weekend was filled with events, football game tailgating, and unique alumni honors. It’s always a special time when Red Foxes come back to campus.
University Designation Reflects Breadth of Global Opportunities and Bold Vision for Marist's Next Century
To better reflect the comprehensive, global institution of higher education it has become, Marist College will become Marist University effective Jan. 29, 2025.
"Marist has achieved remarkable success over the past several decades, transforming from a small regional college into a nationally and internationally renowned leader in higher education," President Dr. Kevin C. Weinman said. "Marist University better describes the breadth of opportunities we offer to students today and the vision we have for Marist's next century."
As the reimagined Dyson Center opened its doors for the start of classes in late August 2024, the Marist community was granted access to the building’s potential to inspire generations of students, faculty, staff, and alumni. A dynamic hub of innovation and learning, Dyson’s impressive design sets the tone for a bright future ahead.
But beyond the impressive architecture and state-of-the-art learning spaces, Dyson also tells the story of the enduring power of philanthropy at Marist.
Made possible in part by the generosity of many donors, including the Dyson Foundation under the leadership of Chairman Robert R. Dyson and President and CEO Andrea L. Reynolds, the new facility showcases numerous named spaces – from a premier lecture hall, faculty offices, classrooms, to a new mock courtroom and teaching methods lab.
These spaces, named by committed donors, inspire current students while evoking the legacies of community members who have left their mark on Marist, and whose new space ensures their legacy endures.
EDWARD TAYLOR COOMBS CLASSROOM
Gift from the Edward Taylor Coombs Foundation
With sweeping views of the Hudson River, the Edward Taylor Coombs Classroom on Dyson’s fourth floor commemorates Eddie Coombs, a Marist lacrosse player whose life was tragically cut short in 2011. This space, a gift from the Edward Taylor Coombs Foundation, celebrates Eddie’s legacy not just as an athlete but as a devoted student and community leader. Founded by Eddie’s family, the foundation continues his legacy by supporting scholarships and youth programs that empower young student-athletes to reach their potential both on and off the field.
Known for his kindness, work ethic, and sportsmanship, Eddie made a lasting impression on his teammates and coaches, inspiring the Marist community to honor his memory. Each year, Marist presents the No. 34 jersey—a number Eddie wore—to a senior lacrosse player who exemplifies Eddie’s spirit and dedication, keeping his influence alive among new generations of athletes.
“The classroom is absolutely breathtaking. said Forrestine Coombs, Edward’s mother It maintains his academic legacy on campus, not just as an athlete, but as a student-athlete.”
The Coombs family has supported Marist for more than a decade, with this classroom serving as a physical reminder of Eddie’s enduring impact on campus. Through their foundation, Eddie’s legacy lives on in this new space, inspiring Marist students to embrace the values he embodied.
O’SHEA LECTURE HALL
Gift from Life Trustee John P. O’Shea and Family
The O’Shea Lecture Hall represents the O’Shea family’s deep-rooted connection to Marist and their lasting commitment to advancing the academic experience.
The O’Sheas have been dedicated supporters of Marist for decades, contributing not only financially but also through their active engagement in various initiatives. This lecture hall is a tribute to their legacy of generosity and educational advocacy, serving as a dynamic space where students gather to learn, collaborate, and engage in critical discourse.
The contributions of John O’Shea and his late wife Nancy reflect their vision of Marist as a community of excellence and opportunity. From supporting student programs to participating in campus developments, the O’Shea family has played a crucial role in helping shape Marist’s mission and growth.
“This lecture hall embodies the O’Shea family’s dedication to fostering an environment where students can thrive, learn, and create lasting connections,” said Chris DelGiorno ’88, Vice President for Advancement at Marist.
WILLIAM “BILL” AUSTIN COLLABORATIVE ROOM
Gift from Wayne Jr. ’80 and Marisa Schmidt
Named in honor of beloved Marist rowing coach Bill Austin, the William Austin Collaborative Room reflects Coach Austin’s legacy of teamwork, mentorship, and dedication. Known for guiding the Marist rowing team to numerous victories, Coach Austin left an indelible mark on the Marist community, influencing generations of athletes with his passion for the sport and his commitment to character development.
The Schmidt family’s decision to name a space after Coach Austin is a tribute to his profound impact on Marist athletes. The room stands as a collaborative space where students can work together, fostering the sense of unity and mutual support that Coach Austin championed throughout his career.
The Schmidt’s meaningful pledge also included the naming of a classroom in honor of Wayne’s father, Wayne F. Schmidt Sr.
JEROME AND TINA PICKETT MOCK COURTROOM
Gift from Jerome ’98/’22M and Tina Pickett
Aspace designed for immersive legal studies, the Jerome and Tina Pickett Mock Courtroom brings a new professional setting to the Marist campus, preparing students for careers in law and criminal justice. Alumnus Jerome Pickett has a distinguished career in security and law enforcement, bringing a wealth of real-world experience that enhances this academic space. The courtroom serves as a training ground for students, equipping them with hands-on experience in trial procedures, critical thinking, and advocacy.
Through their gift, the Picketts aim to inspire future leaders and provide Marist students with a platform to hone their skills in a realistic environment, underscoring the values of justice, ethics, and service to others
"Having a space where students can actively engage in courtroom simulations brings their education to life and prepares them for the demands of their future careers," said Pickett.
FULL LIST OF DYSON’S NAMED SPACES
Dean’s Suite in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, a gift from the Class of 1968 in honor of their 55th Reunion
Edward Taylor Coombs Classroom, a gift from the Edward Taylor Coombs Foundation
Evelyn M. Davies Teaching Methods Lab, a gift from the Evelyn M. Davies Charitable Trust, Mark V. Dennis, Marist Trustee
School of Management Faculty Office, in memory of Thomas G. Crotty ’81, a gift from the Crotty Family
School of Management Faculty Office, a gift from Timothy ’69 and Mary Ann Keneally
School of Management Faculty Office, a gift from Alyssa ’89 and Charles Moeder
Jerome and Tina Pickett Mock Courtroom, a gift from Jerome ’98/’22M and Tina Pickett
O’Shea Lecture Hall, a gift from Life Trustee John P. O’Shea and Family
Pamela J. Harper, PhD Classroom, a gift from her colleagues, students, friends, and family
Pike Rooftop Terrace, a gift from Pike Construction Services
Investment Center, a gift from the Jeannette F. Schlobach Charitable Trust, Mark V. Dennis, CPA, Trustee
School of Management Advisory Board Café, a gift from an anonymous donor
Ulrich Room, a gift from the Dr. Edwin A. Ulrich Charitable Trust
Wayne F. Schmidt Sr. Classroom, a gift from Wayne Jr. ’80 and Marisa Schmidt
William “Bill” Austin Collaborative Room, a gift from Wayne Jr. ’80 and Marisa Schmidt
Interested in learning more about named spaces on the Marist campus? Contact Vice President of Advancement, Chris DelGiorno ’88 at chris.degiorno@marist.edu
He’s a force in transportation infrastructure; she’s a protector of the environment and a leader at a top-tier tech company. Now, this inspiring couple has turned their focus to something deeply personal – supporting Marist, the place where their story and future began.
Jay Doyle ’75 and Beth Marshdoyle ’75 first met at Marist University in the early 1970s. Decades later, they remain deeply connected—not only as alumni, but as stewards of its future.
“Marist isn’t just a University we attended, it’s where our lives began together, and it’s a part of who we are,” said Beth.
Jay and Beth’s journeys at Marist initially followed distinct paths. Jay was a political science major and a dedicated cross-country and track athlete. “I loved running in the Hudson Valley. It gave me a deep connection to the region and to Marist,” said Jay.
Beth, an environmental science major, was engaged in sustainability efforts on campus long before it became a mainstream issue. “My experience at Marist really set the stage for my passion for environmental causes,” said Beth, who now serves on the advisory board for Land’s Sake, a nonprofit farm in Weston, Massachusetts.
After graduation, Jay and Beth married and took what they learned at Marist into the world, never losing sight of the values instilled in them as students. Both pursued careers influenced by their Marist experiences.
Beth earned advanced degrees and built a successful career as an account executive at Apple. Jay also earned an advanced degree and became a vice president at the global design firm AECOM, where he focuses on transportation planning and community development.
“It’s rewarding to know that the projects I work on help shape cities and towns, improving lives. That sense of purpose started at Marist,” Jay said.
As their careers grew, so did their desire to give back to the Marist community. Beth rekindled connections with her former classmates during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this renewed sense of connection prompted the couple to reflect on how they could further support Marist.
In 2021, they established the Emily Marie Doyle Scholarship in memory of their infant daughter. This scholarship supports first-year students majoring in science, with a preference for environmental science students. “Scholarships made my education possible,” said Beth. “Now we want to make that possible for others.”
The Doyles’ support for Marist continues to grow; they recently pledged a significant gift of $150,000 to help build Marist’s new Track and Turf Field, which includes naming the Record Board. “It’s exciting to know that future generations will have access to facilities we never had,” said Jay.
Beth and Jay also contribute annually to the Marist Fund and have recently joined the University’s Legacy Society. Their generosity isn’t just about financial support—it’s about staying connected. They serve on the reunion committee, helping to drive alumni engagement.
“As we approach our 50th reunion, we’ve been focused on what our class legacy will be. We want to ensure Marist continues to grow and serve its students in meaningful ways,” Beth said.
Two Transformational Gifts Expand Student Opportunity
Marist University is celebrating two multimillion-dollar gifts that reflect growing confidence in the University’s future and a shared commitment to expanding opportunity, academic excellence, and student success.
One gift strengthens Marist’s ability to act with agility and vision through unrestricted support; the other expands a signature scholarship and leadership program rooted in history and civic engagement.
Together, these gifts underscore the power of philanthropy to shape lives and help Marist deliver on the bold goals of its Marist 100 strategic plan.
McCormick Family Foundation Gift Expands Long Reach Society
Through a generous multimillion-dollar pledge, alumni Genine and Michael McCormick ’88/’88/P’16 have expanded the Long Reach Society and Scholarship program, an academic and leadership initiative for students pursuing majors or minors in History and American Studies.
Students selected to the Long Reach Society receive more than scholarship support—they gain access to immersive civic engagement opportunities, research experiences, mentorship, and a tight-knit academic community.
The program includes partnerships with the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the FDR Presidential Library, and Marist’s own Centers for Civic Engagement and Public Opinion.
“Their gift does so much to advance several of the ambitious priorities outlined in Marist 100,” said President Weinman. “The Long Reach Society attracts talented students, surrounds them with support and challenge, and offers transformational learning experiences that prepare them for a lifetime of leadership.”
The McCormicks’ investment will expand the program to serve more students, with a vision to ultimately include 40 scholars. The family has a long history of philanthropic leadership at Marist, from establishing the McCormick Family Foundation to supporting the Marist Fund and naming McCormick Hall.
“We hope this gift inspires Marist students across all academic disciplines to explore history and engage with the world around them,” said Genine. “Studying and understanding history is important across all industries and essential to becoming responsible global citizens.”
Unrestricted Support Strengthens University Priorities
A generous multimillion-dollar gift from an anonymous alumna—one of the largest unrestricted donations in Marist’s history— will provide the University with critical flexibility to address emerging priorities and invest in high-impact areas.
These include scholarships, academic innovation, faculty support, and enhancements to campus resources that directly benefit students.
“This gift is an investment in Marist’s future and in the students who will go on to make a difference in the world,” said President Kevin Weinman. “These funds give us the agility to act in real time to enhance academic offerings, support students and faculty, and seize new opportunities that advance our mission.”
The donor’s generosity builds on a wave of recent momentum at Marist, including a record-breaking Day of Giving and other leadership commitments. The gift also accelerates the goals of Marist 100, the University’s strategic plan to elevate the student experience and expand Marist’s reach and reputation.
