Longtime Mason Athletics supporters Carolyn and Jay Marsh have generously challenged Mason men’s and women’s basketball alumni and friends to support the Mason basketball locker room renovation project in EagleBank Arena. The couple will match all gifts dollar for dollar up to $50,000, and in their honor, the video room in the men’s locker room will be named for Carolyn Marsh.
The challenge began on April 5, Mason’s second annual Giving Day, and runs until June 30. Visit givingday.gmu.edu/athletics to make your gift today.
“This is an extraordinary gesture by Jay and Carolyn Marsh for which we are extremely grateful,” Director of Athletics Brad Edwards said. “The Marshes’ compassion and commitment to the entire university stretches well beyond the athletic department. With almost a century of combined service to our university, they are part of the fabric here at George Mason.”
Carolyn and Jay Marsh have played an integral role at George Mason University for close to 50 years. A basketball alum himself, Jay has been involved with Mason Athletics since graduating in 1973, beginning as an assistant basketball coach before moving to the business side as a fundraiser in the Patriot Club. He currently serves as senior associate athletic director for events and facilities. His involvement in the athletic department and his passion for the Patriots is unmatched, except maybe by Carolyn.
Carolyn has been associated with George Mason since Jay was a student and player for the Patriots. She served as a secretary in the athletic department and with the sports information department before moving permanently to the basketball office in 1981. She keeps the basketball office running smoothly and provides support to coaches, players, families, and fans with efficiency and warmth.
“The two names most synonymous with George Mason Basketball are Carolyn and Jay Marsh,” men’s basketball head coach Dave Paulsen said. “They are the epitome of servant leaders working tirelessly over their distinguished careers to help support generations of student-athletes. Once again, they are taking a leadership role with this contribution. I know I speak for all Mason Basketball student-athletes and staffs from all eras in thanking Carolyn and Jay for their service and support.”
Construction of the $1.2 million EagleBank Arena Basketball locker room project will commence on May 1, keeping the project on a targeted completion date in time for the start of the 2018-19 basketball season.
April 19 / adapted from a gomason.com story