OA SPRING-SUMMER 2025 MAGAZINE - with links

Forging Futures: SMWC and Marian University Launch Dual-Degree Engineering and Medical School Fast Track

In a bold step toward expanding academic opportunities and career pathways for students, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) has announced a transformative partnership with Marian University in Indianapolis. This collaboration introduces two new articulation agreements—one in engineering and another in medicine—designed to empower students with streamlined, high-impact At the heart of the partnership is a 3+2 dual-degree engineering program that allows students to earn two bachelor’s degrees in just five years: a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from SMWC and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Marian University’s E. S. Witchger School of Engineering. educational experiences. Engineering a Dual Future

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SMWC President Brennan J. Randolph, SMWC Provost Janet Clark, Ph.D., Marian University Chief Academic Officer Binhq Tran, Ph.D. and Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener.

Students will begin their academic journey at SMWC, where they’ll build a strong foundation in mathematics and the liberal arts. After three years, qualified students will transition to Marian University to complete two years of specialized engineering coursework in civil, mechanical, biomedical or chemical engineering. “This is a natural fit for SMWC and Marian University,” said SMWC President Brennan J. Randolph. “As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, agreements like this enable smaller institutions to expand learning opportunities for their students. We are excited to work with President Elsener and Marian University.” Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener echoed the sentiment: “These partnerships reflect our shared commitment to student-centered innovation and to preparing future leaders for high-impact careers critical to Indiana’s future. This mission-centered collaboration brings Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and Marian University together to better serve students and the state through an education that is illumined by the light of faith and grounded in gospel values.” A Seamless Pathway to Medical School In addition to the engineering program, SMWC and Marian University’s Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine have launched a second articulation agreement that opens doors for aspiring physicians. The agreement offers two distinct tracks for SMWC biology-preprofessional graduates: a Fast-Track Interview and an Early Decision option. Each year, up to five students per track who meet the academic and experiential requirements will be guaranteed an interview and receive an expedited admission decision. This initiative provides a clear and supportive pathway for students pursuing a medical degree—without the uncertainty of navigating the application process alone. “In the past, students who wanted to pursue a medical degree after earning their preprofessional degree at The Woods had to search for their next destination,” said Dr. Janet Clark, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “With this agreement, students will work with advisors from both institutions to prepare a competitive application to a top ranked osteopathic medical school right here in Indiana.” Shared Values, Shared Vision Both SMWC and Marian University are rooted in Catholic traditions and a commitment to liberal arts education. These shared values form the foundation of a partnership that prioritizes student success, ethical leadership and service to the community. Dr. Clark praised the faculty of SMWC’s Department of Science and Mathematics for aligning the curriculum to support the engineering agreement. “This will ensure a smooth transition for students as they pursue their engineering degree at Marian. We are excited to offer our students this expanded opportunity.” President Randolph emphasized the broader impact: “This dual-degree program offers students a unique opportunity to engage with both campus communities, fostering deeper strengths, confidence and career mobility in their chosen field. With Marian’s state-of-the-art engineering center, cutting-edge labs and collaborative learning spaces, our students will be well-prepared for the future.”

The faculty and staff of the Ph.D. in Global Leadership program celebrated the first doctoral graduates during Commencement 2025. (L to R front) Karen Dyer ’25Ph.D.; Dan Hiltz, Ph.D., adjunct faculty; Lamprini Pantazi, Ph.D., MBA, MS, dean of the division of Business & Leadership; Eric Hubbard, Ph.D., ’12MLD, director of Master’s Programs in Business & Leadership; Kourtney Barrett ’25Ph.D.; Rusty Tryon, DMIN, MLS, director of the library and associate professor; Christina “Christy” Pearison ’19, ’20MLD, ’25Ph.D.; Kimberly LaComba, Ph.D., director of Ph.D. in Global Leadership Program; Meredith Williams ’25Ph.D. and Jennie Mitchell, Ph.D., MBA, emeritus professor.

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