At Marist, we believe in the power of "and" not the limitations of "or." Study philosophy and finance. Be a top athlete and scholar. Immerse yourself in research and hands-on learning. Seek inspiration in New York City and Florence. When you come here, you have access to more.      

And at Marist, "more" is not a measure of quantity, but rather a pursuit of quality in how we learn, the lifelong relationships we build, and the impact we have. Impact that's felt in the classroom, on the field, and around the world. Because we know improving the world around us will not happen through just one area of study, one location, or one experience. 

These are the personal stories shared by our students, alumni, and faculty about how the power of "and" has inspired them to do more.

Go Bold. Dare to Choose More. 

 

Check out the entire "Inspired to do More" series

Just Released

image of crystal marr

Crystal Marr '02

Inspired to Heal
and Empower
Crystal's Story >

image of mabel aronson

Mabel Aronson '25

Inspired to Lead
and Foster Community
Mabel's Story >

image of Dr. Carrizales

Dr. Tony Carrizales

Inspired to build Communities
and Shape Future Leaders
Dr. Carrizeles' Story >

image of jackie piddock

Jackie Piddock '26

Inspired to Shoot Hoops
and Serve
Jackie's Story >


More Stories of Inspiration

Inspired to Lead AND Foster Community.

Inspired to Lead AND Foster Community

Transferring to Marist transformed Mabel鈥檚 journey. As a star student and Saxbys鈥� first student CEO, she gained hands-on experience running a small business. Inspired by the Hudson River views and the fashion merchandising program, Mabel led sustainability initiatives, studied abroad in Italy, and grew as a dynamic leader and learner鈥攁ll thanks to Marist鈥檚 supportive, experiential focus.

Mabel's Story

Inspired to Heal and Empower

Crystal Marr helps others find strength through their challenges.

Crystal combines deep empathy with a commitment to long-term healing to empower individuals to live fuller, healthier lives. Shaped by a Marist education that fostered resilience and personal growth, Crystal proves that compassion and understanding are powerful catalysts for change. 

Crystal's Story

Inspired to Build Communities and Shape Future Leaders

Dr. Carrizales knows diverse voices create stronger communities鈥攁nd better leaders.

A public administration professor influenced by his border town roots, Tony creates a classroom environment where every perspective matters. He guides future public service leaders to find innovative solutions drawing on their varied experiences and cultures. For Tony, effective leadership always starts with understanding and engaging diverse communities.

Dr. Carrizales' Story

Inspired to Shoot Hoops and Serve

Jackie is all about teamwork鈥攐n and off the court.

The biology major is a point guard for the Red Foxes and recently completed Marine Corps officer training. When she鈥檚 not scoring on the court, she鈥檚 immersed in her psychology and human bio studies preparing for her dream job as a U.S. Navy medic. Jackie is more than a DI athlete鈥攕he鈥檚 a leader on the court and in her community.

Jackie's Story

Inspired by AI and Human Potential

Coding and AI are not just passions for Christian鈥攖hey鈥檙e his calling.

The data science and analytics major dives into hands-on learning and research to uncover endless ways AI can shape the future. He also leads campuswide talks on the responsible use of this revolutionary tech across industries. That鈥檚 because Christian sees more than just data鈥攈e sees the human impact of innovation.

Christian's Story

Inspired to Lead and Protect

Jack embodies the Marist spirit through his lifelong commitment to service and leadership.

As a retired NYC firefighter, community advocate, and volunteer, Jack has made it his mission to give back, drawing on the values he learned at Marist. Whether supporting families of fallen 9/11 heroes through the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or inspiring younger generations to make a difference, Jack's story proves that even small acts of kindness can change lives.

Jack's Story

Inspired to Open Minds and Open Doors

Dr. Tarantello believes the power of mentorship builds lifelong skills鈥攁nd confidence.

An English literature professor inspired by her own Marist education, Patty believes in the power of curiosity and personal connections. Just as her professors did, she encourages students to think critically, embrace new ideas, and find joy in unexpected discoveries. For Patty, every lesson is a chance to open a new door of possibility. 

Dr. Tarantello's Story

Inspired to Build Businesses and Relationships

A Marist education is fuel for Loik鈥檚 global mission.

Born in Belgium, raised in Rwanda, graduated high school in Buffalo, NY. Loik鈥檚 global upbringing drew him to Marist and sparked aspirations to pursue entrepreneurship as a path to uplift communities back home. He鈥檚 a natural connector who bridges relationships through clubs, sports, and creative pursuits like poetry. Loik proves that impact comes in more than one form.

Loik's Story

 

Check out the entire "Inspired to do More" series