Countdown to Commencement 2026: Mary Marrapese

This week’s “Countdown to Commencement” spotlights Mary Marrapese, an economics and Spanish double major, nominated by Dr. Luisa Cordaro‑Mammano, visiting assistant professor and language proficiency placement coordinator.

Marrapese knew she wanted to stay close to home, and Fisher quickly became the perfect fit. Her passion for Spanish began in high school, and she was determined to carry it into her career, pairing it with her interest in business. She credits the economics department for giving her the freedom to explore a wide range of disciplines and real‑world opportunities.

Embracing campus life, Marrapese immersed herself in clubs, academics, and athletics. She has been involved with the College Fed Challenge, club basketball, the Investment Club, the Economics and Data Analytics Club, and the St. John Fisher Coalition for Civic Thought and Discussion.

She began her Fisher athletics journey as a manager for the women’s basketball team before earning a spot on the varsity roster. She also competed on the club team for several years. Athletics, she says, has shaped her experience and strengthened her leadership skills.
Last summer, Marrapese traveled to Valladolid, Spain, where she worked in a language academy teaching English to local students. A solo trip to Madrid deepened her connection to the country and confirmed her desire to return.

She is now committed to a program that will bring her back to Europe in Fall 2026. “It was a completely transformative experience,” she said. “I improved my Spanish skills and really utilized what I’ve been doing in my studies in a real‑world scenario.”

Cordaro‑Mammano praised Marrapese’s intellectual curiosity and impact on campus dialogue.

“Her ability to facilitate discussion, draw connections to real‑world events, and encourage diverse perspectives helped strengthen Fisher’s culture of civil discourse,” she said.

For current and future Fisher students, her advice is what has guided her own journey — do more. 

“Try new things, being outside of your comfort zone is where you grow the most,” she said.

This article was written by Hailey Gunther, a senior marketing major, who is working as an intern in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fisher for the 2025-2026 academic year.