POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y.—Marist University has received the largest scholarship gift in its history; a transformative $5 million commitment from the Dyson Foundation, advancing the University’s continued momentum and expanding access to a Marist education.

Beginning in the 2026–27 academic year and distributed over 10 years, the investment will provide sustained scholarship support for students throughout the Hudson Valley, strengthening the University’s ability to recognize and support local talent in its home region. 

“We are grateful for the Dyson Foundation’s longstanding partnership and their dedication to advancing access to higher education,” said President Kevin Weinman. “As the largest scholarship gift in our history, this $5 million commitment signals another powerful investment in Marist’s continued momentum by expanding opportunity for students and strengthening our ability to recruit, support, and educate the next generation of leaders.” 

Scholarship support ensures talent and potential, not financial circumstances, shape access to a Marist education and enables students to take full advantage of the vast number of opportunities the University provides. This gift will grow that support and reduce financial barriers while strengthening Marist’s overall financial aid resources.

"Marist University and the Dyson Foundation share a commitment to expanding access to high-quality education, a strong partnership that has existed for more than half a century," said Foundation Chair and longtime Marist Trustee Robert R. Dyson. "This gift is an investment in the next generation of students, who will learn, lead, and build their futures in the region, ensuring they experience the transformative opportunities a Marist education provides."

By investing in scholarships, the Dyson Foundation is reaffirming the importance of a college degree while also strengthening Marist’s ability to sustain its high-impact academic experience and career preparation, which includes a unique blend of liberal arts and pre-professional studies. 

“At the point when students and families are making their final college decision, affordability is often the deciding factor,” said Sean Kaylor, Vice President of Enrollment Management. “This scholarship support helps more students say ‘yes’ to Marist.”

The gift reflects the growing momentum behind Marist 100’s strategic priorities, including expanding access to education, enhancing the student experience, and building expansive communities on campus and beyond by preparing graduates who carry forward Marist’s commitment to leadership, service, and impact. As Marist continues to grow its national and global reach, this gift reinforces its deep roots in the local community.

Learn more about scholarship opportunities at Marist.

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About Marist University: Founded in 1929, Marist University is a comprehensive, independent four-year institution that blends the liberal arts with pre-professional studies and emphasizes experiential learning to enrich classroom instruction. With campuses in Poughkeepsie, New York, and Florence, Italy, as well as more than 70 programs offering a variety of international study options, the University is a portal to the world and is devoted to nurturing a welcoming, inclusive community. Through six schools offering nearly 50 majors, Marist fosters the intellectual growth and well-being of its more than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The University encourages students to explore beyond traditional academic boundaries, pursuing coursework and personal experiences that provide valuable occupational expertise and reflect their individual passions. Marist has been recognized as a top institution in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, The Wall Street Journal, The Princeton Review, and others.