Aislynn McVicker had not planned on going to UD — until a campus visit offered more than a tour. In the chapel’s calm and the community’s Marianist values of faith and service, the University of Dayton felt like home.
“All it took was a visit to campus to know it was where I belonged. I knew UD would prepare me for any obstacles and challenges, as well as provide me with a well-rounded education while deepening my values,” McVicker said.
That sense of belonging only grew stronger once she immersed herself in campus life. Through Marianist Leadership Scholars and Phi Epsilon Kappa, she participated in several meaningful service experiences within the Dayton community. One of her favorite opportunities was an immersion service trip with 11 other students from UD and the other two Marianist universities — St. Mary’s and Chaminade University — called LEAD with Mary.
“This has been my most transformative journey in my UD experience. I was not only given the opportunity to plan a trip for the other students to the wonderful city of Dayton, but I was able to engage in so many new acts of service around Dayton and learn more about the Marianist charisms. This truly showed me what it means to be ‘Forever Marianist,’” she said.
Together, all of these experiences have shown her how the Marianist charism is woven into every corner of campus life. The Forever Marianist initiative plays a vital role in sustaining this distinctive identity, ensuring programs rooted in community, service and faith continue to thrive. Donors who support this mission make it possible for students like McVicker to explore their calling, serve others and develop as whole persons shaped by Marianist values that will guide them long after graduation.
“Without the consistent support of donor generosity, I would not be able to attend the University of Dayton. The generosity of donors has allowed me to pursue my interests as well as get involved in more opportunities that support my goals,” she said.
For her, the Marianist Leadership Scholars program is more than a scholarship. It is a community that cultivates love, faith and service. Today, as retreat co-chair, she helps others experience the same opportunities.
“While deepening my faith personally, the program has given me so many opportunities to excel in many areas,” McVicker said. “I am able to find people with common values and interests who push me in my spirituality, as well as provide a core group of friends to spend time with.”