September 9, 2025 — Last week the Campus Green buzzed with excitement as Marist students gathered for the annual Student Activities Fair, a highly anticipated event each fall. The fair brought together hundreds of students exploring new ways to connect, create, and grow.
 

 

 

 

 

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Over 100 Opportunities to Get Involved

 
Students in the Marist Dance Ensemble practice their routine in the aerobics room at the McCormick Hall Fitness Center. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

This year’s fair showcased nearly 120 clubs and organizations, ranging from long-standing favorites like Dance Ensemble and Marist Rugby to newly chartered groups including Marist Young Entrepreneurs (MYE), Artificial Intelligence Club, Creative Perspectives, and the Lifting Club.

Booths featured colorful displays, student leaders eager to recruit members, and even interactive activities, from games and raffles to caricature artists and live demos.

Students get caricatures of themselves by local artists at the Student Activities Fair. Photo by Lauretta Russell '26/Marist University.

“Our Activities Fair is a great way for new and returning students to see what's available to them,” said Kelli Nienstadt '19, Assistant Director of Student Activities. “Getting involved on campus adds to a student's undergraduate experience in so many ways. Marist emphasizes life outside the classroom just as much as academics because that's where students build friendships, go on adventures, and create lasting memories through clubs and organizations.”

With more than 450 students in attendance, including many first-year Red Foxes, the fair provided opportunities to discover passions, build community, and explore leadership roles. It also served as an accessible introduction to ways to get involved on campus.

A Warm Welcome to Student Life

For some returning students, participating in the event during Welcome Week brought a sense of reflection and gratitude.

“I remember the Student Activities Fair of my first year very fondly, and the ability to assist in running the event really is a beautiful full-circle moment for me,” said Alex Murphy '26, Vice President of Club Affairs for the Student Government Association (SGA). “I discovered multiple clubs that I have remained an active member of for all four years of my time at Marist and have made many lifelong friends and important connections along the way.”

Meanwhile, for first-year students like Alexis Ucci '29, the fair marked the beginning of her Marist journey.

“I wanted to check out all the clubs and see what might inspire me,” said Ucci. “I already have a few in mind, and I’m excited to dive in.”

Finding Belonging on Campus

 
Members of the Women’s Rugby Club at the Student Activities Fair represent their club and recruit new team members. Photo by Lauretta Russell '26/Marist University.

Clubs are more than just activities outside of class—they create a sense of belonging and open the door to new interests, skills, and passions.

“It’s important for students to join clubs because it helps cultivate a complete university experience,” said Tyler Mecca '27. “Branching out through networking or just being active on campus lifts spirits and creates opportunities you can’t get by only taking classes.”

“You can join a bunch of different clubs and really choose how much you want to commit,” noted Mackenzie Carrey '26. “Whether you want a leadership role or are just participating to meet new people and follow your passions, either way, it’s a great way to feel connected and make the most of your time here.”

Club leaders agree that the fair is just as valuable for them as it is for attendees. Established organizations use it to welcome new members who bring fresh energy and ideas, while newer groups gain visibility, build their presence, and grow their communities from the ground up.

“We already have so many sign-ups!” shared Meghan Sharpe '27, President of the Marist Outing Club, which organizes adventurous student trips ranging from apple picking to hiking and camping.

Marist Club Hockey plays against Army Club Hockey. Photo courtesy of Marist Athletics.

By fostering connections, sparking creativity, and celebrating diverse interests, Marist’s clubs and organizations create spaces where students can thrive. Returning students say the impact of the fair lasts far beyond the day itself.

“When I was a first-year, I didn’t know any of the clubs and learned about them by walking around the fair,” said Angela Boyd '27. “This event is really well-advertised and brings people out to see what we have to offer. You can make a lot of friends and meet so many different people; it’s a great way to get yourself out there.”

“As a senior, I love coming back and seeing familiar faces that make this place feel like home,” added Mackenzie Carrey '26. “It’s great to see everyone so excited about the things they love, returning each year to help others be part of it.”

Learn more about student involvement at Marist by exploring clubs and organizations and checking out upcoming student activities events.