“Watch your thoughts; they become your words. Watch your words; they become your actions. Watch your actions; they become your character.”

For SU junior Marlon Aristy, these truly are words to live by.

Aristy’s involvement on the Shippensburg University campus is extensive. He serves as the treasurer of the Latino Student Organization (LSO), a member of the B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S. Organization, a student facilitator for Building Bridges, a participant in the Reach Out Program and a Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) senator for the Student Government Association (SGA).

Despite his long list of responsibilities, Aristy’s purpose is simple: to create an inclusive and supportive environment.

“LSO is like a family away from home,” said Aristy. “If you need help, you text in the group chat and we’re going to help you. It’s just good vibes, always.”

Building Bridges is another organization close to his heart. Through this MSA program, he facilitates conversations with first-year students about race, diversity and culture shock.

“These students are going to shape the culture of Shippensburg in a few years,” Aristy said. “We want them to know that diversity isn’t just about color; it’s about experiences, backgrounds and perspectives.”

Aristy’s passion for leadership extends beyond campus. His political aspirations led him to an internship as the Director of International Social Affairs for the Maryland Democratic Party. Through connections made in MSA and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Aristy secured a mentorship that introduced him to key political figures in Maryland.

“I was basically in charge of outreach, sending emails and making connections,” Aristy said. “It gave me the opportunity to sit in meetings with the mayor and the governor, which was an incredible experience.”

Despite his packed schedule, Aristy finds balance in nature. His favorite way to unwind is by taking his goldendoodle, Luna, on mountain drives, disconnecting from the world for a few hours.

“My parents hate it because there’s no signal, and my car’s not exactly built for off-roading,” Aristy joked. “But it’s how I recharge.”

Aristy’s leadership is driven by his strong personal philosophy. His commitment to this mindset is evident in every aspect of his life, including guiding first-year students through their transition to college. And through the Study of the U.S. Institutions program with the U.S. Department of State, Aristy had the opportunity to mentor student leaders from Europe during the summer of 2023. 

“The things I did for those students are what I would want someone to do for me,” Aristy said. “I just wanted to make sure they felt welcomed and had the chance to explore.”

Aristy’s journey has not been without challenges. At one point, he felt lost, unsure of his path after transferring schools and stepping away from athletics. But through family, faith and self-reflection, he found his way.

“I realized that if I stay stuck in the past, I’ll miss out on the present,” Aristy said. “I’ve learned to focus on what I can control and to always move forward.”

As he looks ahead to his final year at SU, Aristy is weighing his next steps; whether that is law school, graduate school or becoming a professor one day. But no matter where he ends up, his impact on SU will be lasting.

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