January 28, 2025 — The Marist University Day celebration continues in the early evening with an exciting block party at the McCann Center. The event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m., and be full of food, games, music, and school spirit as we highlight one of Marist’s most distinctive qualities — its warm, welcoming community.

Activities for All Interests

Student playing ping pong. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist.

• Kan Jam & Spikeball Showdown: Join thrilling tournaments to showcase your skills or make new friends in a high-energy atmosphere.
• Open Play Games: Play volleyball, cornhole, ping pong, and board games that offer casual fun for all levels of experience.
• Fitness Classes: Energize your body and relax your mind with yoga, Pilates, and stretch & flex sessions tailored for all fitness levels.
• Massage Clinic: Unwind with complimentary chair massages from Marist’s skilled Doctor of Physical Therapy students.
• Caricature Artists: Capture the moment with the help of talented caricature artists on-site, ready to create fun and whimsical portraits of you and your friends.
• Stuff-a-Plush Station: Build your own cuddly fox companion to take home as a Marist U keepsake.

Unique Experiences

McCann Arena. Photo courtesy of Marist Athletics.

• Basketball Court Design Contest: Leave your mark by submitting ideas for a new McCann Arena court design set to debut this summer.
• Wellness Zone: Prioritize your health with wellness checks conducted by students and faculty from the School of Science.

Food, Firepits, and Extra Treats

Students making s’mores on campus. Photo by Benson Delaney '27/Marist College

• Food Trucks: Enjoy delicious bites from Wingin' It and From the Ground Up Mobile Kitchen at deeply discounted pricing.
• S’mores & Hot Cocoa Bar: Toast up some marshmallows for s’mores by blazing firepits and head inside to create your perfect cup of cocoa.
• Cookies & Carnival Snacks: Treat yourself to Marist U cookies, freshly popped popcorn, and pretzel bites.

Community Excitement
“We think of McCann as another student center, allowing students to build community,” said Tim Murray, Director of Athletics. “From games and wellness activities to creative opportunities and delicious food, there's something for everyone. This block party is the perfect celebration of what makes Marist so special.”

Students are gearing up for the big day, sharing their excitement for this historic change and celebration.

“I’m super excited to be back on campus after studying abroad, and be able to celebrate Marist moving upwards with my friends and other students!” said Lana Tomchuk '26, business administration major.

“I’m excited about Marist becoming a university and the extensive global recognition it is receiving!” said Alexis Moss '29, Psychology major.

Visit marist.edu/university-day for the full schedule and here for livestream details, if you can’t be on campus!