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.
