This issue celebrates the Class of 2024, whose achievements epitomize our institution's mission. These students have demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication as scholars, leaders, and global citizens. Here are some of their stories.

SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATIONS & THE ARTS

 

Matt Carpenter - Major: Media Production & Media Studies

Matt is graduating with a major in media production & studies, focusing on film & television, and a minor in advertising. Throughout his time at Marist, Matt has embraced diverse experiences that have shaped his academic journey and professional aspirations. Matt's involvement with MCTV allowed him to gain hands-on experience in video production and editing. His role at Student Activities provided him with valuable insights into event planning and management. One of the highlights of Matt's academic journey was studying abroad in London, where he had the chance to immerse himself in the vibrant culture while interning in a different country. After graduation, Matt is determined to pursue a career in video or film/television editing, leveraging his passion for storytelling and technical proficiency.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Having the chance to tell faculty about my experience in the department. I can't imagine what my college experience would have been like if I didn't have professors that cared about us so deeply.”
 

Phyia Walker - Major: Communications

 Phyia is graduating with a major in communications and a concentration in advertising, in addition to a minor in video production. She is often described as an open-minded and highly spirited individual who marches to the beat of her own drum. Throughout her four years at Marist, Phyia dedicated her time to Housing as a Resident Assistant, Sodexo as a marketing intern for Marist Eats, Wasserman Next Gen as a Campus Brand Ambassador for the streaming service, Max, and an informal liaison between on-campus organizations such as the Black Student Union, Student Government Association, and the Mon Afrique planning committee. Phyia received recognition through the School of Communication and the Arts as a recipient of the Dean's Award, which is awarded to a student who goes beyond what is needed from them. One thing Phyia will miss about Marist is the many creative outlets and hands-on experiential programs she was able to plan and take part in.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Meeting Angela Yee, former cohost of 'The Breakfast Club' on iHeartRadio, which I grew up listening to, and host of 'Way Up', at Marist after she spoke at a panel discussion."

Alexis Lee - Major: Communications

Alexis is graduating with a major in communications with concentrations in public relations and advertising. As the firm director of North Road Communications (NRC), Alexis looks back at her three years in the student-run integrated marketing communications (IMC) firm with gratitude. Her leadership helped NRC provide top-tier IMC services to local nonprofits and grow members' hands-on professional skills, portfolios, and networking opportunities. While studying abroad at Marist Italy, Alexis led the charge in establishing NRC Global, making NRC the first global student-run IMC firm in the country. Alexis also gained experience in the sports and entertainment industries by working for Marist Football and Live Nation. Her biggest inspiration at Marist has been Dr. Jennifer Robinette, who taught her that any dream can become a reality with hard work. After graduation, Alexis will be pursuing the IMC Marist Master's program.

Favorite Marist Memories
“Sledding with my friends on the Campus Green, seeing the Marist Christmas tree lightings, watching Marist sunsets, and studying abroad in Florence.”

Amanda DeFalco - Major: Communications

Amanda is graduating with a major in communications with concentrations in journalism and public relations and minors in graphic design and fashion merchandising. Beyond her academic achievements, she served as Student Body President at the Student Government Office, exemplifying leadership and dedication to student welfare. Amanda wrote her honors thesis research on experiential learning's impact on career opportunities and interned at the Richmond County District Attorney's office. Meeting successful alumni has been Amanda's biggest inspiration while at Marist, fueling her aspirations for a fulfilling career.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain, where I took courses on digital photography and Spain’s culture. I was able to travel during my classes to art museums and historical sites.”

Christina Georgiou - Major: Media Studies and Production

Christina graduates with a media studies and production major and currently works as a WABC-TV promotions intern for The Walt Disney Company. From immersing herself in the Tarver Summer Internship Program with The Art Effect to working as a Sodexo Marist Eats videography & photography intern, Christina made the most out of her Marist experience. Studying abroad at Marist Italy broadened her global perspective, while her involvement with the Silver Needle Runway 37 creative team showcased her creativity. Her photography was featured in the Mosaic and her self-produced videos were used to help promote Mon Afrique on campus. Christina also addressed social issues head on, creating a documentary on housing crises and sparking vital discussions. Christina says Melissa A. Gaeke and Jeffrey Basinger were both huge inspirations in shaping her love for realism filmmaking and her plans to use media and art as a catalyst for change and community building.

Favorite Marist Memories
“Planning funky events as a Marist Eats intern, exposing myself to different cultures and photographing while studying abroad in Florence, and having picnics on the green with friends.”

Kyle Broner - Major: Media Studies

Kyle is graduating with a degree in media studies with a production film & television concentration. In the realm of Marist experiences, few compare to Kyle's role as Event Director for Red Fox Films, where he collaborated with peers to craft memorable cinematic experiences. Making movies alongside talented friends stands as another highlight, fostering creativity and camaraderie. Equally memorable were the lively script readings in Sketch Comedy class with Dr. Dan Amernick.  After graduation, Kyle aspires to delve into freelance film work, producing more creative projects, and hopefully, gracing film festivals with made-at-Marist movies.

Favorite Marist Memory
“The Haunted Harvest Film Festival that my club hosted in Fusco last Fall. Amazing turnout and so many fun horror films screened at that event.”

SCHOOL OF COMPUTER SCIENCE & MATHEMATICS

Christopher Del Vecchio - Major: Information Systems

Christopher has earned a major in information systems with a minor in technology computer science. During his time at Marist, he enjoyed spending time with peers in the Marist/IBM Joint Study, fostering collaborative learning and professional growth. Additionally, he seized the opportunity to broaden his horizons by attending a conference in Lake George, N.Y. His biggest inspirations were Professor Chris Algozzine and Professor Robert Cannistra, who provided invaluable support and career guidance. After graduation, Christopher plans to take a two-week trip to Japan before starting his job search in the tech industry. With a keen interest in the application of AI to the medical and healthcare field, he hopes to find a role that allows him to leverage his skills and passions in innovative ways, contributing to advancements in healthcare technology.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Spending the night in New York City with my roommates on Halloween.”

Daisy Kopycienski - Major: Cybersecurity

Daisy is set to graduate with a major in cybersecurity and minors in computer science, information systems, and information technology. Throughout her academic journey, Daisy found immense inspiration from her fellow students, both outside the classroom and through the interdisciplinary seminars of the Honors Program. Beyond academics, she enjoyed being a part of the SEED club, where she had the chance to explore the nature of the Hudson Valley. Daisy had the opportunity to present post-quantum cryptography research at the National Collegiate Honors Council conference in Chicago and worked on-campus as a peer tutor. Additionally, she seized the opportunity to study abroad at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. Looking ahead, Daisy is excited to embark on the next chapter of her journey by joining JPMorgan Chase & Co's University Mainframe Software Engineer Program.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Picnicking and walking down by the river with my friends to watch the sunset!”

Ian Marsh - Majors: Computer Science, Cybersecurity

Ian is graduating with a double major in computer science and cybersecurity. His participation in the Marist-IBM Joint Study program has been a transformative experience, providing him with remarkable opportunities he never imagined possible. Serving as an Airman in the Air National Guard has allowed Ian to travel and experience new things. For his computer science capstone project, Ian demonstrated his commitment to community service by developing a flood alert system for the town of Rhinebeck. Throughout his time at Marist, Ian has found inspiration in his peers, who have consistently motivated him to strive for excellence both physically and academically. Looking ahead, Ian's post-graduation plan is to work at IBM in data analytics on information for the Department of Defense.

Favorite Marist Memory
“My favorite memory was presenting my research for the Marist-IBM Joint Study with my coworkers to President Weinman, IBM, and Marist shareholders.”

Lukas McCullough - Major: Cybersecurity

Lukas will be graduating with a major in cybersecurity and minors in computer science, information technology, and information science. During his time at Marist, he co-founded and played a key role in leading the cybersecurity club, fostering a community of like-minded individuals. Lukas also engaged in independent research with faculty, notably presenting his Bluetooth Low Energy research. Additionally, he represented Marist College at the MAAC Esports Championships as part of the Esports team. Lukas’s biggest inspiration at Marist is the supportive community that fosters a healthy learning environment. After college, Lukas plans to pursue a career in the cybersecurity field after completing a master’s in criminal justice at Boston University in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Hanging out with friends on one of the snow days and sledding down the hill at the green and behind Hancock.”

Kiera Burns - Major: Mathematics

Kiera is set to graduate with a major in mathematics. While at Marist, she has served as a Program Coordinator for the Newburgh Enlarged City School District Smart Scholars program. This upcoming summer marks her third year in this role working alongside Cindy Worrad, Assistant Dean of the School of Computer Science and Mathematics. Kiera emphasizes the impact that Cindy has had on both her personal and academic accomplishments at Marist. Additionally, Kiera shared her insights and guidance with fellow students through internship panels and served as a Transfer and Commuter Peer Mentor. Her biggest inspirations at Marist have been everyone in the math department, who Kiera refers to as her second family. Looking ahead, Kiera plans to continue her education journey by continuing to pursue her master's in adolescent education and special education at Marist after graduation.

Favorite Marist Memory
"The 2024 River Fest is one of my favorite memories at Marist. I was able to spend time with friends and some of my favorite professors celebrating the last few weeks before graduation."

Easton Eberwein - Major: Information Technology and Systems

Easton will graduate with a major in information technology and systems and a minor in computer science from Marist. During his time at Marist, he excelled both academically and athletically, as captain of the men's track and field team while also participating in the Honors Program. His academic pursuits included a thesis on performance-enhancer usage by student-athletes. As part of his capstone project, he had the opportunity to work with GTel/Archtop Fiber. He credits his biggest inspiration to the supportive people in his life who motivate him to continuously strive for excellence. Looking ahead, Easton plans to further his education by pursuing a Master's of science in information systems management and data analytics at Marist.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Breaking the Marist College indoor for 400-meter dash record.”

Marianne Lombardo - Major: Mathematics

Marianne graduates with a major in mathematics and a minor in psychology. Her top experiences at Marist include being active in the Teachers of Tomorrow and Mathematics clubs, doing fieldwork for her education classes through the Liberty Partnerships Program, and overlooking the Campus Green, the Hudson River, and Marist sunsets. Marianne’s biggest inspirations have been her mathematics professors for helping her succeed as a mathematician and person, her education professors who helped her gain confidence to become a great educator, and her parents for believing in her. After graduating, Marianne will continue her master’s degree work in secondary education and special education through Marist’s five-year program.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Working at the MathLab. I loved helping people who came in and my coworkers were very fun to be around under Dr. Matthew Glomski and Dr. Joseph Kirtland.”

Kyle Mulkins - Majors: Data Science, Applied Mathematics

Kyle majored in both data science and applied mathematics. Reflecting on his time at Marist, he considers it to be unparalleled and the most fulfilling four years of his life. During his time at Marist, Kyle assumed the role of President of the Pu Mu Epsilon Chapter and collaborated on multiple research projects with his professors. He cherished his experiences at the Joint Mathematics Meetings and is grateful for the supportive community that has played a pivotal role in shaping him into the person he is today.

Favorite Marist Memory
“Working at the math lab and meeting many new faces every day and helping others succeed made it an amazing experience.”

Erin E. Kilmer - Master of Science in Information Systems

Erin received her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy in 2015, her Master of Public Administration in 2021, and is now receiving her Master of Science in Information Systems. Her top experiences at Marist include performing on Accepted Students Day with Sarah Williams and the Marist Singers, working with a wonderful group of classmates on the group projects in Professor Michael Ackerbauer’s Information Systems Policy class, and sitting on the dock by the Hudson in late spring semester eating a caprese panini from Rossi’s. Erin’s biggest inspiration at Marist has been all of the engaging and motivating professors she had over the course of the three degree programs. Post-graduation, Erin plans to continue to work as an Administrative Law Judge for New York State and to travel to top cocktail bars with her fiancé.

Favorite Marist Memory
Feeling the sense of accomplishment and future possibilities walking across the stage at graduation.