Marian University Student Shines as Multi-Talented Scholar and Student Leader

A woman stands in front of camels in a desert landscape with mountains in the background during sunset.Marian University’s Ava Cothern ‘27 exemplifies leadership, curiosity, and commitment through her many roles on campus and beyond. A chemistry pre-med major, Ava is already charting a path toward medical school while making an impressive impact across multiple areas of student life.

Cothern serves as captain of the Marian Knight Competitive Dance Team and president of the Pre-Health Club, balancing academics and leadership with grace. Through Marian’s Model United Nations program, Ava has studied abroad in London, Morocco, and Germany, with plans to travel to Poland this November. A proud San Damiano Scholar, she continues to uphold Marian’s values of scholarship, leadership, and service.

When asked how she manages her busy schedule, Ava shared, “I like staying busy, and I’ve found so many things that I genuinely love to be involved in.” Her enthusiasm and drive inspire those around her—showing what it means to live Marian’s mission with both heart and purpose.