December 17, 2024 — Last week’s historic announcement that Marist College will become Marist University has sparked excitement throughout the community. 

The milestone will be celebrated with an event on January 29 — the actual day Marist becomes a university — bringing together the Marist community near and far to honor this pivotal moment in the institution’s history.

Marist University: A Community Celebration of Innovation and Spirit 

Save the Date: Jan. 29
Mark your calendar for a day to remember as we celebrate this historic milestone together! Timed with the return of students for the spring semester, this community-wide event promises to be engaging, exciting, and unforgettable.

When & Where:
The celebration kicks off in the Dyson Center at 11 a.m. and will last throughout the day. A livestream will also be available so alumni across the country can participate virtually. Marist’s Florence campus will be connected live through the Dyson atrium’s giant TV screen.

What to Expect:
Marist University is a place where students engage in serious learning, and chase serious fun. So we’re designing a day that reflects both signature aspects of a Marist education. 

• New beginnings unveiled: Mark the official change to University status with the debut of Marist University's new logo and a 60-second commercial, and see the student, faculty, and alumni faces behind our dynamic storytelling campaign.
• Engage in serious learning: Explore an Experiential Learning Expo in the Dyson Center showcasing innovative hands-on experiences, including a community chalk-art installation, pop-up MPorium store, virtual reality demo, and more.
• Chase serious fun: End the day with a focus on health, wellness, and time for some fun at the McCann Center, featuring faculty/staff vs. student games,  club sports, a cozy hot cocoa bar, and plenty of giveaways!

Don’t Miss Out!
Marist University-branded giveaways will be available for attendees throughout the day. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to Jan. 29!

President Kevin Weinman with Marist students in Dyson Center. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist College.

The journey toward this transition began more than a year ago, incorporating input from students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, prospective students and their families, as well as secondary school counselors from around the world. The collaborative process included town halls, feedback sessions, surveys, and extensive research.

Feedback from the Marist community over those many months strongly indicated that the university designation better reflects Marist’s comprehensive, global stature and aligns with the expectations and experiences of a modern college education. 

The announcement last Wednesday was welcomed by many students.

“I think Marist University is the best thing that could’ve happened,” said Jack Woods '25. “Marist students are so smart, and we have such a great community. This will allow us to really show people what we as Marist students are made of.”

“I’m excited," said Kaitlin La Du '26. "I think it’s going to open a lot of opportunities." 

“Overall I’m really excited about our institution becoming a university,” said Valencia Hill '26. “ I can’t wait to tell my mom and I look forward to sharing the excitement with other students. I think it’s an amazing opportunity for Marist to become a university, and I’m thrilled to be here during the transition.” 

Marist University announcement in the background with students working in the Dyson Center atrium on Wednesday. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist College.

For 95 years, Marist has been shaped by its mission, founding values, and ideal size. President Kevin Weinman expressed his enthusiasm for this next chapter. 

“I’m excited about our future because Marist University will continue to dream big while always feeling small," said Weinman. This has long been one of Marist’s greatest strengths—occupying a sweet spot where small classes are taught by faculty who serve as both mentors and educators, and a community thrives on mutual care and respect.”

The Jan. 29 event will feature fun activities, giveaways, a celebration of Marist’s distinctive approach to experiential learning, and plenty of community spirit—truly a day to remember!

For more information on the university announcement, including feedback from the Marist community and for more on the Jan. 29 event, visit Marist.edu/university. 

VIDEO: On campus and online, our community has been buzzing with energy and excitement about the Marist University announcement!