April 22, 2025 — Marist students came from far and wide across the European continent to learn leadership skills, present research, and network in London, England, one of the world’s most vibrant and connected cities.

For the first time, students studying in multiple cities across Marist’s locations in Europe had the opportunity to participate in the Student Global Leadership Conference (SGLC), hosted by the Foundation for International Education (FIE). Previously, students in the First-Year Dublin Experience (FDE) program had participated, but this year students from Italy and Spain took part as well.

"Recognizing that the SGLC in London is a wonderful opportunity for students to voice their perspectives on important issues such as sustainability, human rights, and social justice, we expanded access to students from our programs Florence and Madrid," said Dr. John Peters, Associate Provost for International Engagement and Senior International Officer.

All in all, 40 Red Foxes travelled to London, making Marist one of the most highly-represented universities at the conference. Some students went as presenters and others as attendees, making connections with leaders in various fields as well as students from across the world.

The Marist contingent takes a group photo while in London for the SGLC. Photo courtesy of Shane Duffy, Marist Abroad.

Marist students’ presentations centered on themes of leadership, focusing on inclusivity in areas such as sports, education, and fostering positive environments in developing communities.

Sydney McLoughlin '28, a political science major, was part of a group of three FDE students who presented about ethical issues surrounding “voluntourism,” in which travelers volunteer in the communities they visit. While often well intended, such charity work can sometimes be disruptive to local cultures and economies.

“I have left the conference with a newfound purpose,” Sydney said. “I had known that this topic was very important to me, and researching it made me realize I want to work in this industry to help address these issues in the future.”

Sydney McLoughlin '28 (left) and Kaylee Fitzpatrick '28 (right) present at the SGLC. Photo courtesy of Shane Duffy, Marist Abroad.

For the presenting students, the chance to get up in front of a crowd of peers and speak confidently is also a big takeaway.

“I learned that I can be comfortable public speaking with just a little practice,” said Luke Jablonski '28, a economics major in the FDE program who presented on implementing diverse and inclusive leadership in sports. “The experience was excellent and I had fun presenting.”

Beyond the presentations, the opportunity to talk and network with students and leaders from universities and organizations across the globe gave the Marist students unmatched perspective and insight into their academic, professional, and personal interests.

Carter Burke (left), Luke Jablonski (center), and Marcello Cornacchia (right) present at the SGLC. Photo courtesy of Shane Duffy, Marist Abroad.

Veronica Vogelman '26 is a psychology and Spanish double major, and is studying abroad this semester in Madrid. She is looking ahead to a potential career path in human resources, and said that learning about diversity in leadership was an enlightening experience.

“The speakers provided key insights to creating and maintaining a healthy work environment for people around the world, from all different backgrounds and careers,” said Veronica. “I also had a great time getting to know the presenters from Marist and other universities.”

Computer Science major Esosa Asaolu '28, another FDE student who presented on the topic of women in leadership, was amazed at how many meaningful conversations she had at the conference. 

She was especially affected by a fellow student who came up to her after her talk to discuss the specific use of terminology related to racial representation within her presentation.

“It really struck me that, in a room full of people, someone not only listened to what I said but truly heard me,” Esosa said. “That moment reminded me why spaces like the SGLC matter—where your voice can resonate, even when it’s just one sentence in a much bigger conversation.”

“Having Marist students involved in these conversations with students and scholars from different parts of the globe is one important way we operationalize the mission of bringing Marist to the world and the world to Marist,” said Dr. Gavin Webb, Dean of International Programs.

Webb added that the theme of inclusive leadership fostered critical thinking about values and beliefs across cultures.

"The SGLC was a great way to engage with people from all over the world, each with unique pursuits and passions," said First-Year Florence Experience student Alice Adams '28, a political science major. "The topics discussed certainly motivated me to move forward in my education and career with a more open mindset and with the grit to embrace our changing world and all its challenges."

Peters added: “We look forward to further growing these types of signature opportunities for our students to engage global issues in international contexts in the future."

 

Students tour London's iconic sights and take part in the SGLC. Photos in gallery courtesy of Shane Duffy, Marist Abroad, and Veronica Vogelman '26.

In addition to the conference, the Marist students had the opportunity to enjoy educational tours as well. Organized by Webb, Shane Duffy, Director of Marist Ireland, and Brad Miller, Associate Director of Marist Italy, the group navigated around the city, visiting such landmarks as Big Ben, the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and other iconic sights.

The students say this is a trip they will remember for a long time, and that will go a long way toward helping them in their professional and personal lives.

“It was an experience that everyone should have the opportunity to be a part of,” said Esosa. “It’s transformative and enriching in ways that words can’t fully capture!”