On behalf of the Marian University Alumni Board, I’m thrilled to extend heartfelt congratulations to our newest graduates! You’ve achieved something remarkable, and I’m proud to officially welcome you into the Marian University Alumni Association (MUAA). You are now a lifelong member of the Marian Knight alumni community—a network grounded in tradition, support, and pride.

As you take your next steps, I encourage you to remain connected to Marian. Whether you choose to attend alumni events, follow MUAA on Facebook or Instagram, or simply share your Marian story with others, there are countless ways to stay involved. We also invite you to consider giving back by serving on the alumni board, mentoring students, or supporting our shared mission in other meaningful ways.

Remember, you carry with you The Marian University Promise: to be exceptionally well prepared for a good life and professional pursuits. And as alumni, you continue to embody our vision: to be transformative leaders in service to the world.

Here are just a few ways you can stay engaged:

• Stay Connected: Follow MUAA on social media for the latest updates, news, and opportunities.
• Attend Events: From reunions to networking mixers, our gatherings are great opportunities to reconnect.
• Spread the Word: Keep the Marian spirit alive by sharing your experiences and encouraging others to join in.

Welcome to a community that will support you for a lifetime. We are so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see all the ways you’ll continue to make an impact as Marian alumni.

Your journey with Marian University doesn’t have to end after graduation. 

In fact, it’s just getting started.

During Commencement Week’s Student Achievement Awards, Marian University recognized Laphat Jean with the 2025 Alumni Association Distinguished Senior Award. This honor celebrates a graduating senior who excels academically, engages meaningfully in campus life, and contributes significantly to the university community.

A double major in Biology and Chemistry with a 3.757 GPA, Laphat has excelled in both the classroom and the lab. Her undergraduate research on lipid synthesis and lifespan in C. elegans earned her international presentation opportunities and a Sigma Zeta grant. Dr. Trisha Staab praised her “resilience, intellectual curiosity, and drive for discovery,” calling her a standout in undergraduate research.

Laphat’s impact stretches across campus and beyond. She led as President of Sigma Zeta and Project Sunshine, establishing new volunteer partnerships to benefit children and families. She also helped cultivate inclusion and cultural awareness through her roles with the Asian Student Association and Women of Marian. Her mentorship in Marian’s Healthcare Camp and service at Sheltering Wings further highlight her commitment to others.

After graduation, Laphat will pursue a career in healthcare and research. This summer, she will join Marian’s fully funded Wasomi East Africa Study Abroad program to study Kiswahili, explore public health, and engage with East African culture in Kenya and Tanzania.

We are proud to call Laphat Jean a Marian University alum and excited to see all that her future holds!

One of the key reasons Colette chose Marian was the scholarship support she received. "With five brothers and one sister, the expenses add up quickly. But thanks to the scholarships I received, Marian became an affordable option for me to pursue my passion for nursing." Beyond financial support, Marian stood out to Colette as a place where students are truly seen, supported, and given the opportunity to grow in a close-knit, faith-filled community.

As Colette recently walked across the stage at commencement, celebrating her achievements alongside her fellow graduates, we're reminded of why our collective support is so important. It is thanks to our donors and community that students like Colette can attend and thrive at Marian University. Their journeys are just beginning, and we can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make in the world!

To support Marian's mission by making a gift, please contact John Finke at 317.955.6202, or jfinke@marian.edu.

Women of Marian Summer Luncheon: A Celebration and Community

The Women of Marian Society will host its annual Summer Luncheon on Saturday, July 26, from 11:00am to 1:30pm in the Marian University Arena. The signature event brings together hundreds of women from Marian University and the greater Indianapolis community to celebrate and learn from each other.

Enjoy mimosas and lunch followed by a panel focusing on women in civic leadership moderated by Anne Hathaway, president and CEO of Hathaway Strategies, and featuring Senator Cyndi Carrasco, Representative Julie McGuire and Representative Vanessa Summers.

Open to alumnae, students, faculty, staff, and friends of Marian, this event brings together women of all generations to learn and grow from one another. It’s the one experience you won’t want to miss!

Date: Saturday, July 26

Time: 11:00am-1:30pm

Location: Marian University Arena

Attire: Summer festive, derby hats and fascinators encouraged

Register for the luncheon here.