February 4, 2025 — The sense of pride and anticipation for the future was palpable across campus as Marist marked its transition from College to University.

Keeping with the spirit of Marist, the celebration was student-centered, showcased talented faculty and unique forms of experiential learning, and honored the university’s expansive community with a live feed to Marist locations in Florence and Dublin.

“I’m feeling super excited and super grateful for Marist to finally become a university,” said Ethan Solury '26, a political science major. “I think it will expand our reach not only throughout the nation but worldwide as well.”

“I love all of the school spirit and seeing the Marist red across campus,” said Colin Martin '26, a math and data science major.

Students wear stylized glasses with the new Marist University shield logo. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

The Dyson Center was awash in a sea of red as attendees showed their enthusiasm by donning their Marist gear. The crowd counted down to the official change along with Vice President for Communications and Marketing Daryl Richard '97. Cheers erupted as the new logo was unveiled and Marist officially became a university.

Students were immediately ready to update their hats, shirts, and hoodies with the new Marist University logo.

“Who wants some new Marist University—oh, I see hands going up already!” said Richard, before he and marketing major Valincia Hill '26, tossed new gear into the crowd.

Valincia encapsulated the excitement in her address to attendees.

“I’m incredibly thrilled to be here today as we celebrate a milestone in Marist history,” the Las Vegas native said. “I can’t help but feel proud and inspired. It is a beautiful representation of not only where we are today, but also where we are headed.”

The excitement spread beyond Poughkeepsie to Marist’s locations nationwide and abroad as well. Groups from Florence and Dublin appeared via Zoom on a big screen in the Dyson Center to express their gratitude and enthusiasm for the school’s next chapter.

Students participate on Zoom from Marist campuses in Florence (left side of screen) and Dublin (right). Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University.

“Marist for us, for my fellow students, is more than just academic studies. It is also about personal growth and helps with life skills and challenges,” said Maria Vittoria Arienzo '28, a First-year Florence Experience student who was joined on camera by over 100 colleagues on Marist’s Florence campus.

“As you can see, we are super happy and super excited to become a university with you in New York. Forza Volpi Rosse! Go Red Foxes!” she said, expressing her enthusiasm in Italian and English.

Brooke Hubert '28, a First-year Dublin Experience student spoke from a gathering at Marist’s campus in Ireland as well.

“The mood is high, and we’re all really excited,” she said. “There are so many Marist students abroad all around the world, and I feel like the change to University embodies the global aspect of our school.”

Back on the Poughkeepsie campus, students, faculty, and staff packed the Dyson and McCann centers as the day was filled with interactive exhibitions and activities, ranging from vibrant, cutting-edge technologies and facilities to recreational volleyball games and Pilates.

Students participate in recreational activities at the McCann Center as part of University Day. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University.

“I didn’t really know what form this was going to take, but after coming here today—it’s incredible,” said Addison Schwing '25, an accounting major. “I’m a little regretful that I’m a senior and won’t be able to be with the college as it’s going through this major transition, but I was excited to be a part of history today.“

Click through the photo gallery below to see all of the interactive events, exhibits, games, and other fun activities that generated buzz and excitement on this monumental day!