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Celebrating 75 Years
Marian University’s
Most Influential People
In honor of our 75th anniversary, we are celebrating 10
of Marian University’s most influential people, past and
present. Choosing them has been a monumental task
because so many people have influenced the university
in some way. We reached out to faculty, staff, students,
and alumni and asked, “Who was the most influential to
you during your time at Marian University” The following
10 people have greatly influenced, not just the direction,
but the community of the university. They are and were
stewards of the Franciscan values and the visionaries
who, for 75 years, have helped us provide an education
that transforms lives, society, and the world.
by Katie Bradley and Ashley Petry
“It is this very spirit [united effort to keep our schools in the
limelight of educational endeavor] to do the best that can be done—
which has induced us to undertake what may seem a preposterous
project at this particular time.”
– Mother Clarissa Dillhoff
“Sr. Mary Rose made learning chemistry easy and fun. She took an
interest in each of us, and helped in our transitions to higher education.
She was a mentor, scientist, and a friend.”
– Dr. Debora Kramer-Porter ’76
“Sr. Norma Rocklage always made the time to talk to me and
encouraged me to grow as a student, an athlete, and as a leader.
Her effect on me has continued throughout my life, as I do volunteer
work and conduct my actions with a sense of community spirit.
Her faith is enduring. When I think of Marian University, I think
of Sr. Norma.”
– David Miller ’92
Monsignor John Doyle’s love of learning and his vast knowledge of so
many fields were fascinating to me.”
– Pat Jeffers ’59
“Many of the lessons learned from Father Leo were taught outside
the classroom, which is a benefit of having such excellent mentors at
a university, rather than just professors.”
– Steve Roell ’99
“Ken Elmendorf brought magic to the rather dull topic of economics and
mixed in real time events from his life.”
– Thomas Sluss ’75
“John Sweany was a showman. As he would lead the corps in
parades, the crowds just loved him, because John didn’t march.
John strutted.”
– Steve Gutzwiller ’69
“Ted Karras’ knowledge of the game and ability to relate to every single
player made him very easy to respect and play for.”
– Ja Quan Patilla ’11
“You never dream of having a 36-year career and ending in the
place you started, but it’s been basically my entire professional life.
I loved every minute. I have a lot of good memories, and I know
they’ll continue to be successful for years to come.”
– John Grimes
MARIAN UNIVERSITY
Indianapolis
“I don’t know anything about fundraising. All I do is invite someone to do
something great. They say, ‘What’s so great’ Well, how would you like to
help a kid from a poor family get a great education How would you like
to help me provide more nurses who care about people How would you
like to put a dynamic teacher in every classroom in the state”
– President Daniel J. Elsener
4 www.marian.edu