Meet alumnus Jim Joseph. Jim graduated from Marist in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in Communication and the Arts, spending much of his free time on campus in the theatre. Born and raised in the Bronx, Jim‘s theatrical dreams started during trips to see his godmother perform in musicals. After getting excused from a football practice during his sophomore year of high school, his dream became a reality when he was cast in “West Side Story.” Upon graduation, he took an internship with a Broadway general manager and producer. In 1993 he returned to Marist and, together with Don Cunney and Chuk Luvender, produced and directed Neil Simon‘s “The Odd Couple (the female version)” as an alumni production to raise money for the Jennifer Dressel Memorial Scholarship. Jim currently resides on Roosevelt Island in Manhattan, with his wife Linda.
What have you been up to since graduation? I've been lucky enough to have worked in the performing arts since graduation. I've worked as an arts administrator for a number of different nonprofit theatre companies in New York City, including The Public Theater, Second Stage Theatre, The New Victory Theater, Jazz at Lincoln Center and Manhattan Theatre Club. What is your fondest memory of Marist? Besides the view of the Hudson, it has to be the people. I met lifelong friends at Marist What is your favorite place on campus and why?
There are a few - when I was a student I used to enjoy spending time at the Grotto. I still enjoy making my way down to the boathouse, but my favorite place will always be the theater. It's where I spent most of my time as a student. Who was your favorite Marist professor or class? I was a Radio/TV/Film major and had Doug Cole for more classes than anyone else. I always enjoyed his classes. How have you remained involved with Marist since graduating? Sometimes I feel like I never left! I helped to establish a memorial fund for my dear friend Jennifer Dressel in 1995, I've directed a few student productions in the 90's, served on the Alumni Association Executive Board as President of the New York Metro Regional Chapter, and currently I am part of the selection committee for the Marist College Theatre Hall of Fame. How did Marist prepare you for your success? I was fortunate to hold several leadership positions during my time as a student, so those experiences gave me the tools I use to this day, such as professional, problem solving, crisis management and teamwork. Think back to your freshman year; what advice would you give to another student today? I received tremendous advice from a teammate during my freshman year on the football team that served me well over 4 years; "There's always going to be another party tomorrow." It's ok to miss that party and finish your assignments that evening because there's going to be another one for you to go to that won't interfere with your studying.