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.”     

Seeking Alumni to Support New Student Outreach!

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!  

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.  

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."  

11 Dec 2025

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.     

Honoring Legacies in the New Dyson Center

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    

Jay and Beth's Enduring Legacy

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.    

Honoring Marist’s strong foundation and embracing the possibilities ahead

On January 29, 2025, Marist officially became a university—a milestone that reflects decades of academic growth, global reach, and an unwavering commitment to student success. The transition signals more than a name change; it’s a moment of evolution that honors Marist’s strong foundation while embracing the possibilities ahead.   That same day, Marist unveiled a bold new university logo and launched a global storytelling campaign celebrating the impact of a Marist education. From Florence to Poughkeepsie, the entire Marist community was invited to imagine more, become more, and share their stories along the way.  This pivotal shift positions Marist to amplify its voice, deepen its mission, and bring its distinctive blend of serious learning and spirited community to an even wider stage. “We’re thrilled to use this pivotal moment to look boldly ahead, introducing Marist University to new audiences and achieving national and international recognition, while honoring the values that have defined the institution from the very beginning," said President Kevin Weinman. Visit marist.edu/news for all the latest University news as Red Foxes everywhere continue to celebrate the past and look to our next chapter as Marist University!

Inspired to Lead and Protect

A  frequent visitor to the 9/11 Memorial,  Jack Oehm ’80 finds purpose in the enduring strength of the human spirit. “It’s a reminder of how fragile life is and how important it is to make every moment count," said Jack. A retired firefighter who witnessed the towers crumble in 2001, Jack dedicated himself to protecting the lives of first responders and supporting the families of fallen heroes. Service rooted in Marist values Jack’s Marist story began as a student-athlete with a passion for track and field, where he discovered the power of community and teamwork. “The friendships I made, the lessons I learned, and the support of my teammates taught me the importance of lifting others up,” he said. “Marist wasn’t just about academics; it was about preparing us to  lead lives of purpose.” Drawn to the fire department after graduating with his degree in accounting, Jack saw firefighting as a way to live out the compassion and resilience instilled in him at Marist. Whether responding to emergencies or supporting families during crises, he embodies Marist’s mission to serve others.   A legacy of giving back Jack has been a steadfast supporter of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which honors the legacy of first responders lost on September 11. Through organizing events and fundraising, Jack helps provide mortgage-free smart homes to the families of fallen heroes. Founded in memory of firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life on September 11, 2001, the organization also preserves the legacy of 9/11 heroes through events like the annual Tunnel to Towers Run & Walk and extends disaster relief to communities in need. Its mission is to ensure that the bravery and sacrifices of these individuals are never forgotten.  “Tunnel to Towers reminds us that even in the face of unimaginable tragedy, we have the power to come together and support one another," he said.  Inspiring the next generation A dedicated public speaker, Jack frequently speaks to students and various groups, encouraging them to make a difference in their own ways and in their own communities. “You don’t have to be a firefighter or join a big organization to make a difference. Small acts of kindness can ripple into big changes.”   Jack’s frequent visits to the 9/11 Memorial are a deeply personal way to honor the lives lost and share the lessons of courage and unity. “Being there is humbling,” he said. “It’s a reminder to live with purpose and to make every moment count.” A powerful example of the Marist spirit in action, Jack’s story proves that being “Inspired to Do More” is more than a tagline—for him, it’s a way of life.  

A New Era of Storytelling at Marist

At Marist, the power of “and,” not “or,” defines the student experience. It’s where students pursue excellence on the field and in the classroom. Where they dive into research and hands-on learning. Where they can be inspired by both the Hudson River and the Arno River—through programs in New York City, Florence, and more than 70 global study opportunities. That expansive, integrated approach to education is at the heart of a new University-wide marketing and storytelling campaign, designed to spotlight the many ways a Marist education empowers students to do more— and be more. “The goal of this new campaign is to better elevate the Marist story and help spread our name far and wide as we raise the stature and prestige of a Marist education,” said Daryl Richard, Vice President of Communications and Marketing. “And there’s no better way to do that than through a human-centered storytelling approach that brings to life each individual’s own unique Marist story.” The campaign is deeply personal and collaborative. Nearly 60 students, faculty, and staff participated in the filming and production of a new 60-second commercial that is part of the Inspired to Do More campaign. Behind the scenes, 10 students enrolled in a semester-long course in spring 2024, working alongside the Office of Communications and Marketing to shape the messaging and creative direction of the campaign.  Their efforts led to the campaign’s central message: Inspired to  Do More. The phrase emerged organically through months of research and conversation. In surveys and interviews, “inspiration” was the word students and alumni used most often when describing their Marist experience, citing both the natural beauty of campus and the community that shaped them. The word “more” is a direct reflection of the University’s ethos: that students don’t have to choose one path or passion—they’re encouraged to pursue it all. The way this campaign was created is a great example of how experiential learning exists in all forms of teaching and working here at Marist, Richard said. “Our Red Foxes have such impressive stories to  tell, and I’m confident that as others hear and watch them,  they’ll be inspired to learn more about Marist.” Visit marist.edu/inspired to watch videos and learn about the unique Marist stories that make up the Red Fox community.   

Named to First U.S. Pro Women's Rugby League

Adriana Castillo ’18 is making history. The former Marist rugby standout was recently named to the inaugural roster of the Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) New York Exiles—part of what will be the first professional women’s rugby league in the United States. It’s a groundbreaking moment for the sport, and Castillo is right at the center of it. Her path to this achievement started at Marist, where she played from 2014 to 2018. A former volleyball and cheerleading athlete, Castillo found rugby late but took to it immediately, drawn to the intensity, physicality, and camaraderie. “Marist gave me a place to discover who I was as an athlete and as a teammate,” she said. Rugby at Marist is a club sport—a format that is incredibly popular on campus. These organizations play a vital role in campus life, fostering community, leadership, and personal growth outside the classroom. The club structure allowed Castillo to compete at a high level while balancing academics, making it an integral part of her college experience. After graduation, Castillo joined the Village Lions Rugby Football Club (2019–2020), then elevated to the Women’s Premier League with New York Rugby Club in 2021. She played four seasons at the elite level, earning WPL All-Star honors in 2023 and developing into a dynamic forward who can cover the blindside flanker, openside flanker, and eight-man positions. In addition to her stateside success, Castillo was recently named to the Dominican Republic women’s national team for the second time—a powerful point of pride as she represents both her heritage and her sport on an international stage. Now, as a member of the WER New York Exiles—a new team formed from the merger of the New York Rugby Club and Gotham Knights—Castillo is one of the foundational players shaping this next era of women’s rugby in the U.S. In a feature by The Rugby Breakdown, she was praised for her leadership, experience, and relentless drive. “I’m proud to be part of something bigger than myself. This league is opening doors for future generations.  I’m just honored to  help kick it off," she said.   

Landmark Gift Offers Students Hands-On Access to Fashion History and Design

Philanthropic Gift Brings Geoffrey Beene Collection to Marist's Fashion Archive 

Equipping Students with a Deep Understanding of AI

Equipping Students with a Deep Understanding of AI 

Marist University’s Second Annual Day of Giving Far Surpassed Expectations

Day of Giving 2025. 

Travel Courses Are Opening Minds and Doors for Marist Students

For Brianna Perez-Quiroz ’27, a week in Yucatán wasn’t just a study abroad opportunity—it was a homecoming through an academic lens. The Political Science and History major, with minors in Latin American Studies and Global Studies, spent spring break 2025 in Mexico as part of a Marist Attachment Course, otherwise known as a travel course. This is a distinctive program in which a semester spent learning in the....