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Centers and Programs

Centers of Learning

The school offers unique educational opportunities within the Centers of Learning which include:

Center for Organizational Ethics
Institute for Green and Sustainable Sciences
Peace and Justice Studies
The Richard G. Lugar Franciscan Center for Global Studies

Each center is directed by a faculty member and is committed to enhancing students’ college experiences through focused seminars, mentoring, field trips, volunteerism, and service learning.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

By engaging in experiences outside the classroom, students at liberal arts institutions gain deeper and more meaningful perspectives of their talents and goals in life. Programs and activities designed for these purposes include:

What Makes Us Different?

Lot of things! But if we had to name just a few, it would be our experiential curriculum, expert faculty advisors who care about your individual success, and outstanding co-curricular programs.

As the only Catholic university in Indianapolis, we'll embrace you with kindness and teach you about four key Franciscan values: dignity of the individual, peace and justice, responsible stewardship, and reconciliation. But we'll also challenge you to get involved—on campus, in the community, and as a leader in your profession.

Experiential Curriculum

EVERY communication major at Marian completes a hands-on, high-impact curriculum that's focused on real-world problem-solving and engagement. In our program, you will:

Complete at least one INTERNSHIP in communication. Many students complete two, three, and even four internships before they graduate.
Create a capstone RESEARCH project focused on communication.
Participate in a community ENGAGEMENT course in which faculty, students, and local organizations collaborate on projects with positive social impacts and new learning opportunities.

Expert Faculty Advising

Our faculty will guide, encourage, challenge, and support you every step of the way.

Personal plans of undergraduate study. Not sure if communication is the right major? Need help choosing a minor or concentration to complement your career goals? Have questions about pursuing an internship? Interested in taking a study-abroad course? We're here to help you explore all of your options.
Preparation for graduate school. Many of our students go on to earn advanced degrees. In fact, within five years of completing their bachelor's degree, about 50 percent of our highest-performing students go on to continue their educations in graduate programs. If you want to earn a master's or Ph.D. in communications, public relations, digital media, journalism, or another field (like law or business), talk with your advisor. We'll help you build an undergraduate experience that ensures you're a competitive candidate for admission and to advise you about preparing to score well on standardized tests like the GRE, LSAT, and GMAT.

Co-Curricular Programs

Marian University and the College of Arts and Sciences both offer a wide range of student teams, organizations, and clubs, varsity and intramural athletics, campus ministry, and other programs from which you can choose.

As a student in the Department of Communication, you can choose from:

Marian Phoenix: page for Marian students to report and share campus news, information, opinions, ideas, art, and humor. Check it out!
Speech and Debate Team: our award-winning team competes against students from schools across the country, traveling to about one dozen forensic tournaments each year.
Media Center: want to help students (including non-communication majors) build better public-speaking and presentation skills? Talk to us about serving as a peer consultant.

Whether you want help with your upcoming speech/presentation, podcast, or video, we’re here to address your communication needs. Find your voice.

Our podcast room includes all the equipment you need to begin podcasting! We can help you with planning, software guidance, and other steps to get started.

To reserve, stop by Clare Hall 20A or email us at mediacenter@marian.edu.

Need Illustrator, Photoshop, Audition, or Premiere for your visual, video, radio, or graphic design projects? Visit our lab to use the Adobe Creative Cloud!

Want to create a talk show or record a video? Reserve our film studio! Just stop by Clare Hall 20A or email us at mediacenter@marian.edu.

We have cameras, camcorders, microphones, and other multimedia supplies for you to rent. We even have selfie ring lights for your TikTok videos! Check out just a few of our offerings here.

Hours and Location, Fall and Spring

Media Lab, Clare Hall 020

Walk-ins, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. during the school year except when classes/meetings are in session.
Summer: Closed.

Podcast Room, Clare Hall 021B

Available by reservation only. Current students, staff, and faculty are all eligible.

Film Studio, Clare Hall 21A

Available by reservation only. Current students, staff, and faculty are all eligible. Available to faculty and staff only in the summer.

Questions? Media Center Coordinator, Clare Hall 020A, Fall & Spring.

Come here for access to the podcast room, to check out media equipment, to ask for multimedia assistance, and to ask questions. Contact us via email during the summer before stopping by: mediacenter@marian.edu.

Our Services

Podcasting Room

Amplify your voice by developing your own podcast! We can help you with honing your focus, developing your script, recording, and editing. Just stop by Clare Hall 20A to see Matt or email us at mediacenter@marian.edu. See Events and Resources sections for more.

Media Lab

Want a space to create animation, design a flyer, or develop a video? Access the Adobe Creative Cloud in our lab.

Walk-ins: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. during the school year except when classes/meetings are in session.

Film Studio

Just stop by Clare Hall 20A to ask Matt or email us at mediacenter@marian.edu to reserve the space.

Multimedia Equipment Rental

We have camcorders, microphones, tripods, and other equipment for you to rent. We even have selfie ring lights for your TikTok videos! Check out just a few of our offerings here. Reserve through mediacenter@marian.edu.

Seminars/Workshops

We have workshops on podcasting and other multimedia frequently. Please check out our Instagram for updated listings.

Classroom visits: A tutor/our coordinator will visit your class to explain our offerings.
Personalized classroom visits (email academiccommons@marian.edu or mediacenter@marian.edu to develop).
Class visits to the media center, including ones in which students can experiment with the equipment.
Videos for your class. (Current videos include advice for students on communicating with professors.)
Collaborations on events.

Resources

Code of Ethics

Our consultants' commitment to one another, to our peers, and to our community is to:

Act in a way that promotes trust.
Hold each other accountable.
Serve one another with respect.
Engage the whole person.
Cultivate an inclusive and safe space.
Maintain open communication.
Respect the rights and confidentiality of every student and consultation.

Through these standards, we can all act in good faith as ambassadors of the Marian University Media Center.

Marian University Model United Nations empowers students to become global citizens, fostering leadership, diplomacy, and critical thinking through simulations of international policymaking.

Marian University Model United Nations is a dynamic and growing program dedicated to developing globally minded leaders through diplomacy, research, and debate. Since our founding, we have hosted three Model UN conferences for high school and middle school students, providing younger delegates with hands-on experience in international affairs. Our next MU-MUN conference is scheduled for Spring 2026.

Meet the team

In addition to hosting conferences, Marian MUN also maintains a competitive travel team. Our delegates have represented Marian University across the world in Alaska, Germany, Morocco, and New York, with our next international trip planned for Italy in Spring 2026. We are proud to say that our team has won awards at every conference we’ve attended, including Best Delegate, Distinguished Delegation, and Best Diplomacy.

Cristina Avello

Junior • Biology Major

Pediatrics • Public Health

My name is Cristina Avello, and I am a junior Biology major. I joined Model UN because I believe that meaningful progress can be achieved when science and humanities work together to build a more equitable and environmentally stable future. As someone who hopes to become a pediatrician, I’m passionate about protecting children’s health, especially through my work in lead-based research and lead prevention education. Model UN gives me a space to connect global policy with the real-world issues I care about, growing into the kind of leader I one day hope to be.

Jessie Castetter

Junior • Biology Major

Global Health • Equity

I’m Jessie Castetter, a junior Biology major here at Marian University. Model UN has broadened my understanding of global issues and shown me how policymakers influence the future we all share. As a future healthcare professional, I want to be as well-rounded as possible so I can truly connect with my patients and provide the most equitable care I can. Model UN has not only strengthened my awareness of international challenges, but also given me the chance to travel, experience diverse cultures, and grow both personally and professionally.

Kaitlyn McNamee

Senior • English Major, Business Minor

Human Rights • Law

Hello! My name is Kaitlyn McNamee. I am a senior English Major and Business Minor here at Marian University, looking to go into law in the future. Model United Nations is one of my favorite programs here at Marian as it has given me so many opportunities to grow as a student, as a professional, and as a person. With Model UN, I have been able to become informed on a diverse range of topics, address unique challenges, connect with students from around the world, craft resolutions, improve my public speaking and debate skills, and so much more. I am especially passionate about efforts to enforce human rights and look forward to continuing to be a part of Model UN for the entirety of my college career.

Ayanna Wash

Junior • Biology & Chemistry

Healthcare • Leadership

Hello! My name is Ayanna Wash. I am a junior in Biology and Chemistry at Marian University, looking to become a surgeon or doctor in the future. I joined Model UN to understand global healthcare and to learn how to be a more active part of building a better future. Joining Model UN has helped me find a community of others that are passionate about helping others and improving the world as I am. It has given me a chance to build my confidence to speak up and to travel and experience different cultures and perspectives I would have otherwise never encountered. It is my hope that these experiences will help me be the best doctor I can possibly be for my patients. I am excited to continue being a part of Model UN and to grow even more.

Ava Cothern

Junior • Chemistry Major

Medicine • Global Awareness

My name is Ava Cothern, and I am a junior Chemistry major pursuing a career in medicine. I originally joined Model UN last year simply hoping to try something new and gain a better understanding of the complex world around me. It has quickly become one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience because I have gained communication, leadership, and diplomacy skills while being able to grow with my team. Through conferences and interactions with students from around the world, I have gained exposure to different cultures and viewpoints that have changed how I view the world. I know the skills and experiences I have gained from Model UN will be invaluable in my further development and future medical career. I am excited to continue growing within Model UN and contribute to a team that is passionate about learning and global awareness.

Lucas Schuster

Sophomore • Biology & Global Studies

Mycology • Env. Policy

Hey! My name is Lucas Schuster. I am a second-year Biology and Global Studies student here at Marian University. My main goal is to eventually become a researcher in the field of mycology and uncover all the unknown mysteries about fungi — but I also have an interest in environmental policy which may shape my course of action in the following years. I am very eager to engage with Model UN here at Marian University to further my understanding of the issues we all face locally and globally, as well as growing into a more well-rounded and compassionate leader in the ever-changing world we find ourselves in today.

Emily Hernandez

Sophomore • Public Health & Psychology

Community • Advocacy

Hello, my name is Emily Hernandez, and I am a second-year student majoring in Public Health and Psychology. Being part of MUN has deepened my understanding of global collaboration and the power of unity. It has shown me how countries can work together to create meaningful change. My experiences and cultural background have helped me understand how to better support children, families, and minority communities, especially those new to this country. I care deeply about connecting with others and making a lasting impact through empathy, advocacy, and action.

Aubrey Griffin

Sophomore • Chemistry, Pre-Medicine

Global Health • Leadership

Hello! My name is Aubrey Griffin. I am a sophomore majoring in chemistry on the pre-medicine pathway with minors in global and ministry studies in the hopes of becoming a physician scientist. Being a part of Marian University’s Model United Nations Team has allowed me to further develop my communication and diplomacy skills by gaining confidence in my integrity and ability to discuss my values and beliefs, while developing a global perspective to care for my community, whether local or global. Through Model UN, I have been inspired to pursue global healthcare through Doctors Without Borders and hope to pursue local political leadership to address the various issues facing my community, both global and local.

Jaidyn Parsley

Junior • Biology Major

Healthcare Systems • Advocacy

My name is Jaidyn Parsley, and I am a junior Biology major pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant. I joined Model UN to better understand how global policy shapes healthcare access and the challenges patients face. My work in medical education research has helped me think more deeply about how we train future providers, connecting naturally to the conversations in Model UN about strengthening healthcare systems. Joining Model UN has been one of the most influential decisions in my college career, building my confidence as an advocate and helping me grow into the healthcare professional I hope to become. I’m grateful to keep learning and contributing to a team committed to meaningful impact and global awareness.

Ava Rogers

Sophomore • Business Management & Global Studies

Diplomacy • International Policy

My name is Ava Rogers, and I am a sophomore double majoring in Business Management and Global Studies. I’ve always been interested in politics on both the national and international levels, and I enjoy exploring how different countries approach global challenges. Model United Nations is a fun and meaningful way for me to build real experience in diplomacy, negotiation, and international policy. Through MUN, I’ve been able to strengthen my research and public-speaking skills while learning how cooperation and dialogue shape global decision-making. I’m excited to continue growing in this organization and contributing to thoughtful, informed discussions on international issues.

Resources

For students who want to participate without traveling, we also offer an on-campus club, which meets to discuss international news, debate global issues, and build diplomatic skills in a low-pressure environment. Whether you want to compete internationally or simply join meaningful discussions about the world, there is a place for you in Marian Model UN.

If you are interested in joining Marian’s club or the travel team, please contact one or both of the Marian MUN co-presidents at jcastetter871@marian.edu or cavello954@marian.edu. Additionally, you may speak to the Director of Model UN at Marian, Melissa Buehler, regarding this program or to learn how to participate in the yearly MUN conference for high school and middle school students hosted by the Marian MUN team.

Here are some links to resources to learn more about Model UN:

MyMUN

NMUN Position Paper Guide

MUNprep Points and Motions

Compete With Excellence in a Historic Tradition

Our award-winning Marian University speech and debate team competes against students from schools across the country, traveling to a dozen tournaments each year. Forensic tournaments can be compared to track and field meets, with participants competing in a variety of events ranging from dramatic interpretation and slam poetry to impromptu speaking and parliamentary debate.

And, yes, you read that correctly. We wrote "forensic." Although commonly associated with tests and techniques to solve crime, the term was actually coined by Aristotle and means "belonging to, used in, or suitable to courts or to public discussion and debate."

"The speech and debate team at Marian has developed my public-speaking skills and has given me the confidence to use my voice and to advocate for others; however, the most important part of speech for me is the relationships. The team gathers an eclectic group of persons for the purpose of forming a team, and as we work, practice, and compete side-by-side, friendships form. We laugh together, learn from each other, and lean on one another."

Ruthann Gorrell '19

Former Student

Forensics Fast Facts*

Oprah Winfrey placed second in the nation in dramatic interpretation during her time competing in speech and debate.
Competitors in speech and debate have gone on to hold successful careers as Supreme Court Justices, actors, business executives, authors, and technology professionals.
Pi Kappa Delta, the oldest national collegiate forensic organization in the United States, was founded in 1911.
Forensics isn’t just about public speaking. Team members have opportunities to hone other skills including writing, research, emotional intelligence, organization, and audience analysis.

*All facts are from the National Speech and Debate Association website.

Scholarships

Students who attend Marian University and compete on the speech and debate team are eligible for a talent award, typically worth $2,000 and renewable each year.

How else will you be supported?

All materials and travel costs and are covered by the university.
Additional scholarships for tournament attire are available.

What is the number one skill most important to employers? Verbal communication.
In its Job Outlook 2016 annual report, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) surveyed more than 200 large national employers, like IBM and Chevron. Here is what they found.

TOP 10 SKILLS/QUALITIES IMPORTANT FOR JOB CANDIDATES

Ability to verbally communicate with persons inside and outside the organization
Ability to work in a team structure
Ability to make decisions and solve problems
Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work
Ability to obtain and process information
Ability to analyze quantitative data
Technical knowledge related to the job
Proficiency with computer software programs
Ability to create and/or edit written reports
Ability to sell or influence others

We Emphasize Academics

We like to take home trophies, but we also want to support your academic success. That’s why the speech and debate team has a school-first philosophy. Additionally, you’ll have opportunities to receive credit for your participation on the team and/or take courses that overlap with the work you’re already doing for competition.

Courses related to speech and debate:

COM 101 Public Speaking*
COM 203 Forensics*
COM 223 Argumentation and Debate
COM 235 Oral Interpretation of Literature

* Speech and debate team participation counts as credit for these courses.

"From timing and pacing your articulated thoughts to learning how to get along with and support a diverse group of teammates, the communication skills I developed on the speech and debate team are transferable to any line of work. Maintaining relationships with company partners is a big part of my role at Canvas, and it’s important that I create a safe, trusting space for open collaboration and teamwork. In the workplace, I find myself channeling that same energy I did as a speaker and audience member on the team."

Amber Ferrari '15

Former Student

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Co-curricular Programs

Centers and Programs

Centers of Learning

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Creative Knights

Eligibility

Submission Deadline

Award Categories

Prizes

Submission Guidelines

Communication Co-Curriculars

What Makes Us Different?

Experiential Curriculum

Expert Faculty Advising

Co-Curricular Programs

Media Center

Podcast Room

Media Lab

Film Studio

Equipment

Hours and Location, Fall and Spring

Our Services