Students Respond to News of President-elect

The University of Scranton announced its 28th president, Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., yesterday.

The presidential announcement was held on live stream at 11 a.m.

Though students could not physically attend an announcement ceremony, they still found ways to get involved and welcome President-elect Marina.

Several members of Student Government got together to watch the announcement. They also welcomed him via Zoom later in the day.

Jeffrey Colucci, president of student government and accounting and finance major, said though he is sad to see current University President Pilarz's time serving the University come to an end, he is excited to see where Father Marina's guidance takes Scranton.

"I am thrilled to welcome Father Marina to our University family as our next president," Colucci said, "I have no doubt that Father Marina will lead the University to be even more prosperous and stronger in the future as he embodies our mission and is well-prepared given his vast prior experiences."

Bailey McLaughlin joined Colucci to watch the announcement this morning. McLaughlin said she is excited for Father Marina to become part of the Scranton family.

"His clear focus and dedication to students are what makes me very excited for him to be on campus next year," McLaughlin said.

McLaughlin is a senior, majoring in occupational therapy with a minor in psychology. She is director of communications of student government, a church choir cantor, president of Liva Arts Company and a student coordinator of Craft for a Cause.

Student Government vice president Matthew Marcotte also spent his morning in the student forum watching the presidential announcement.

Marcotte said it was an exciting day on campus to welcome Father Marina as the University's 28th president.

"I look forward to all that Father Marina accomplishes and believe the University has a bright future under his leadership," Marcotte said.

Above: Students talk to President-elect Marina via Zoom.

Julia Hack and Taylor Roman watched the announcement from the comfort of their apartment.

Hack, chief of staff for student government, said that she was excited to witness the announcement of the next Univesity president.

Hack majors in political science at Scranton and is a member of Urban Beats Crew.

"Although I won't be here [next year], I am looking forward to the wonderful things Father Marina will accomplish," Hack said.

Roman is the secretary of Student Government and wanted to wish Father Marina the best in his presidential role.

"I could not be more excited to have had the opportunity to witness an announcement that would impact the campus I love for years to come," Roman said.

Roman is an international business major enrolled in the BS/MBA program. She is involved in Kania Women in Business and serves as vice president of the International Business Club.

Father Marina takes office this summer at The University of Scranton.