At Marist, we believe in the power of "and" not the limitations of "or." Study philosophy and finance. Be a top athlete and scholar. Immerse yourself in research and hands-on learning. Seek inspiration in New York City and Florence. When you come here, you have access to more.      

And at Marist, "more" is not a measure of quantity, but rather a pursuit of quality in how we learn, the lifelong relationships we build, and the impact we have. Impact that's felt in the classroom, on the field, and around the world. Because we know improving the world around us will not happen through just one area of study, one location, or one experience. 

These are the personal stories shared by our students, alumni, and faculty about how the power of "and" has inspired them to do more.

Go Bold. Dare to Choose More. 

 

 

Check out the entire "Inspired to do More" series

Stories of Inspiration

 

Loik Makuza '25

Inspired to Build Businesses
and Relationships

Loik's Story >

 

Patty Tarantello '04

Inspired to Open Minds
and Open Doors
Patty's Story >

 

Christian Sarmiento '25

Inspired by AI
and Human Connection

Christian's Story >

 

Jack Oehm '80

Inspired to Lead
and Protect

Jack's Story >


More Stories of Inspiration

Inspired to Elevate Fashion and Empower Her Community

Noelle is a campus leader who blends creativity and collaboration to uplift her community.

A Fashion Merchandising major with a concentration in Promotion and a Business minor, Noelle chose Marist for its fashion program rooted in creativity, community, and real-world experience. Her passion for the industry began early, when she launched a custom apparel business in high school. She continued building her skills through her work at Aerie, gaining valuable sales and merchandising experience that further fueled her interest in the fashion world and career pursuits.

Inspired to Lead and Foster Community.

Mabel combines entrepreneurial skills and community spirit to inspire change.

Transferring to Marist transformed Mabel’s journey. As a star student and Saxbys’ first student CEO, she gained hands-on experience running a small business. Inspired by the Hudson River views and the fashion merchandising program, Mabel led sustainability initiatives, studied abroad in Italy, and grew as a dynamic leader and learner—all thanks to Marist’s supportive, experiential focus.

Inspired to Heal and Empower

Crystal Marr helps others find strength through their challenges.

Crystal combines deep empathy with a commitment to long-term healing to empower individuals to live fuller, healthier lives. Shaped by a Marist education that fostered resilience and personal growth, Crystal proves that compassion and understanding are powerful catalysts for change. 

Inspired to Build Communities and Shape Future Leaders

Dr. Carrizales knows diverse voices create stronger communities—and better leaders.

A public administration professor influenced by his border town roots, Tony creates a classroom environment where every perspective matters. He guides future public service leaders to find innovative solutions drawing on their varied experiences and cultures. For Tony, effective leadership always starts with understanding and engaging diverse communities.

Inspired to Shoot Hoops and Serve

Jackie is all about teamwork—on and off the court.

The biology major is a point guard for the Red Foxes and recently completed Marine Corps officer training. When she’s not scoring on the court, she’s immersed in her psychology and human bio studies preparing for her dream job as a U.S. Navy medic. Jackie is more than a DI athlete—she’s a leader on the court and in her community.

Inspired by AI and Human Potential

Coding and AI are not just passions for Christian—they’re his calling.

The data science and analytics major dives into hands-on learning and research to uncover endless ways AI can shape the future. He also leads campuswide talks on the responsible use of this revolutionary tech across industries. That’s because Christian sees more than just data—he sees the human impact of innovation.

Inspired to Lead and Protect

Jack embodies the Marist spirit through his lifelong commitment to service and leadership.

As a retired NYC firefighter, community advocate, and volunteer, Jack has made it his mission to give back, drawing on the values he learned at Marist. Whether supporting families of fallen 9/11 heroes through the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or inspiring younger generations to make a difference, Jack's story proves that even small acts of kindness can change lives.

Inspired to Open Minds and Open Doors

Dr. Tarantello believes the power of mentorship builds lifelong skills—and confidence.

An English literature professor inspired by her own Marist education, Patty believes in the power of curiosity and personal connections. Just as her professors did, she encourages students to think critically, embrace new ideas, and find joy in unexpected discoveries. For Patty, every lesson is a chance to open a new door of possibility. 

Inspired to Build Businesses and Relationships

A Marist education is fuel for Loik’s global mission.

Born in Belgium, raised in Rwanda, graduated high school in Buffalo, NY. Loik’s global upbringing drew him to Marist and sparked aspirations to pursue entrepreneurship as a path to uplift communities back home. He’s a natural connector who bridges relationships through clubs, sports, and creative pursuits like poetry. Loik proves that impact comes in more than one form.

Check Out The Entire "Inspired to do More" Series

Image of Christian Sarmiento.
Christian Sarmiento '25
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Image of Patty Tarantello
Patty Tarantello '04
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Image of Loik Makuza
Loik Makuza '25
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Image of Jack Oehm.
Jack Oehm '80
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