Marist University

Founded in 1929, Marist is a comprehensive, independent four-year institution whose signature educational approach blends the liberal arts with pre-professional studies and emphasizes experiential learning to enrich classroom instruction. With its main campus in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and branch campus in Florence, Italy, plus over 70 programs offering a variety of international study, Marist is a portal to the world and is devoted to nurturing a welcoming, inclusive community.

Through its six schools offering almost 50 majors, Marist cultivates the intellectual growth and well-being of its more than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students. They are encouraged to create a unique and personalized combination of coursework and experiences in and out of the classroom that provide valuable personal growth and occupational expertise to reflect their individual passions.

Marist 100 Strategic Plan 

Marist 100 is a plan developed at an exciting time in our history. We approach our centennial in 2029 from a position of incredible strength, reflecting upon and celebrating Marist’s remarkable growth and development over its first 100 years; reaffirming our commitment to the ongoing relevance and distinctiveness of our mission, values, and model of higher education; and thinking boldly about the years that lie ahead.

Our Strategic Plan will help make a Marist education accessible to a broader range of talented students and will help us carry out our ambitious vision of improving the world through education.

Marist University Mission Statement

“Marist is dedicated to helping students develop the intellect, character, and skills required for enlightened, ethical, and productive lives in the global community of the 21st century.”

Values Statement

Marist University fulfills its mission by pursuing three ideals: excellence in education, a sense of community, and a commitment to service. These ideals were handed down to us by the Marist Brothers who founded the College. Now an independent institution governed by a lay board of trustees, Marist continues to embrace the three ideals as an integral part of the University mission. 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At Marist, we widen the frame of how we see others and the world. We embrace different perspectives and lived experiences,  and bring diverse voices into the conversation. We ensure policies, programs, and initiatives support an environment where all feel welcome, valued, respected, and heard. 

The result? Our students, faculty, staff, and alumni thrive in our rapidly changing global community, and feel empowered to challenge societal norms.