Marian University announced the launch of the Marian Leadership Initiative (MLI), a new program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to excel academically and become impactful leaders in their communities.
Grounded in the university’s Catholic Franciscan values, MLI is built on the T.H.I.S. model of leadership — Trustworthy, Healthy, Inquisitive, and Skilled — and reflects Marian’s ongoing commitment to shaping ethical, service-oriented leaders for today and tomorrow.
The Marian Leadership Initiative will:
- Deliver comprehensive programming through speaker series and workshops focused on each T.H.I.S. leadership principle.
- Expand mentoring opportunities, including partnerships with local high schools to build pathways to higher education and peer-to-peer mentoring that supports student success and retention.
- Strengthen community engagement by fostering volunteer opportunities and partnerships with local organizations to connect Marian students with meaningful service experiences.
Marisa Zambrano has been appointed Executive Director of the Transformational Leadership Initiative, under which MLI will operate. Zambrano has more than 30 years of experience in leadership development, education, and community engagement. She previously worked with Marian’s Pathways to Careers program and has held leadership roles with organizations such as the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana.
“Empowering transformational leaders means equipping changemakers to inspire, elevate, and lead with purpose beyond Marian University,” said Zambrano. “That is the ultimate goal of the Marian Leadership Initiative and the students who will be a part of it.”
Under Zambrano’s leadership, MLI will provide Marian students with mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement opportunities, preparing them to lead with confidence, integrity, and purpose—both during their time at Marian and throughout their professional lives.