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.
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.
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.
Marist’s new Gartland Commons Track and Turf Field has only been open for a few months, but it has already transformed daily life at Marist. From sunrise runs to late-evening practices, the complex hums with energy—serving Division I teams, club athletes, casual joggers, and students who simply want a beautiful place to move and reset.
For many, it has quickly become a favorite spot on campus.
“I love running before my early morning classes, and since I live in the north end it’s so nice to have the track right there,” said Lindsey Mascia ’26. “It’s super pretty during the morning, and I get to be outside before I start my busy day.”
A Long Awaited Home
For Marist’s Division I track and field and cross-country programs, the new facility fulfills a long-held dream: a true on-campus home.
“The track at Gartland Commons is a dream come true for our program,” said Pete Colaizzo, Director of Men’s and Women’s Cross Country and Track and Field. “Now, we have an on-campus home and a place where student-athletes in all our event groups can share in our daily pursuit to be better. In addition, this will be a boost for our recruiting efforts, as future Foxes can see first-hand what we have to offer.”
The complex also serves lacrosse, soccer, and other DI programs, as well as intramural and club teams, broadening its reach across the campus community.
Powered by Generosity
The opening of the facility is the direct result of a groundswell of philanthropy and leadership.
Fundraising for the track and turf began in 2023 with a lead matching challenge from Marist Trustee Tim Tenney, whose gift inspired alumni, families, and friends to step forward in support. From significant leadership commitments to named spaces and commemorative bricks, the project has become a testament to the passion and loyalty of the Marist Athletics community.
The momentum continues to build, as donors recognize the impact this facility has on student-athlete experience, recruitment, wellness, and Marist’s broader vision for vibrant campus life.
“This project is a reflection of what happens when alumni and friends rally around a shared goal,” said Tenney. “The track and turf field will elevate the student-athlete experience for years to come—and strengthen the spirit of community that makes Marist special.”
A Space That Belongs to Everyone
While the facility supports Marist’s 23 Division I teams, its purpose extends far beyond athletics. Students, faculty, and staff use the track for walking, jogging, intramurals, fitness, or simply to clear their minds.
“What I like about the track is that it’s open to everyone,” said Megan Doshi ’26. “Whether you’re an athlete, a casual jogger, or just walking with friends, it gives you a place to move, reset, and enjoy the campus.”
Celebrating Together: Track & Field Alumni Day
To mark the opening, alumni, families, and friends of the cross country and track and field programs were invited to Track & Field Alumni Day and the Victory Lap celebration in September 2025. The event offered a first look at the facility—and a chance for Forever Foxes to take a ceremonial lap.
“We’re really excited to welcome back our Marist Cross Country/Track family,” Colaizzo said. “It will truly be a celebration for our loyal alumni base, as well as for family and friends of our current and past teams.”
Looking Ahead: Phase Two on the Horizon
The opening of the track and turf field marks a major milestone, but the vision for Gartland Commons is far from complete. Phase Two—now in development—will further expand the complex into a premier home for Marist Athletics and student wellness.
Plans include enhanced spectator areas, improved athlete support spaces, and additional infrastructure designed to elevate both training and game-day experiences. These upgrades will strengthen recruiting, create more opportunities for student engagement, and transform the north end of campus into a vibrant hub of activity.
As momentum continues, philanthropy will again play a critical role.
“Phase One shows what’s possible when the Marist community comes together,” said Trustee Tim Tenney. “Phase Two builds on that success—ensuring our student-athletes have the resources they deserve and our campus continues to thrive.”
Stay tuned for more information about the celebration that will be held in spring 2026 for alumni, families, and friends who have supported the project.
“More than a state-of-the-art athletic facility, the Gartland Commons track and turf has become a symbol of momentum—for Marist Athletics, for student wellness, and for the University’s commitment to building spaces that bring people together,” said Director of Athletics Tim Murray.
Alumnus invests in the success of future student-athletes
Marist University has received a generous gift from Jim Elliot ’75 and his wife Barbara Emerson established the Elliott Family Trust Scholarship, a new endowed fund that provides financial support to Marist softball student-athletes. The scholarship celebrates Jim's deep connection to the University and his belief in the power of athletics to shape strong, confident leaders.
“Marist shaped so much of who I am today,” said Jim “The friendships, the lessons, the sense of community—it all stayed with me. Supporting the softball program felt like the perfect way to give back and help future Red Foxes create those same experiences.”
A proud alumnus and supporter of Marist Athletics, Jim has long been inspired by the determination and character of Red Fox student-athletes. He hopes the scholarship will help deserving players pursue both their academic and athletic goals—continuing the proud tradition of excellence that defines Marist Softball.
“This gift honors the legacy of our softball program and the student-athletes who give their all to represent Marist,” said Joe Ausanio, head coach of the University's softball program. “It provides resources that allow our players to focus on their studies, their game, and their growth as people.”
In addition to helping students, Jim’s generosity reinforces the University’s mission to empower scholar-athletes through opportunity, mentorship, and teamwork. “Gifts like this inspire others to give back and invest in the next generation of Red Foxes,” said Kirk Swenson, Vice President for Advancement.
Through the Elliott Family Trust Scholarship, Elliott is leaving a legacy that will strengthen Marist Softball—and the lives of its student-athletes—for years to come.
November 4, 2025 — Campus buzzed with activity October 24–26 as hundreds of Marist alumni and their families returned for the University’s annual Homecoming and Reunion Weekend. Across the two days of shared memories and gatherings, Red Foxes from across generations filled campus with energy and pride—reconnecting, reminiscing, and celebrating the Marist community that always feels like home.
Road to the Workplace Trip Connects Students with Alumni at Paramount Headquarters
Students toured the entertainment company's Manhattan offices, attended an alumni panel discussion, and even sat on the iconic Forrest Gump bench in a day filled with networking and learning how Red Fox connections can open doors in the industry.
