Rider University Names Veterans Center After Alumnus Eugene Marsh

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — On Thursday, Rider University dedicated the campus’ veterans affairs office for Eugene Marsh - a student, war hero and dedicated veterans’ advocate. Marsh died in January from COVID-19 complications.

The Dr. Eugene Marsh Center for Veterans and Military Affairs is the first space at the University to be named for a Black alumnus, the University said.

More than 150 of Marsh’s family and friends raised $97,000 toward their goal of $100,000 to renovate and rename the office, and to relocate it from the back of campus to its new and centrally located home at Rider’s student center, the Bart Luedeke Center.

Marsh, a decorated veteran who earned three medals during his tour of Vietnam, including the Bronze Star for Valor in combat and the Army Commendation Medal, was known as a tireless advocate for veterans.

He completed an associate’s degree at Mercer County Community College before transferring to Rider and attaining his bachelor’s degree in liberal arts with a concentration in history. Nearing his 70s, he earned his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Rider, and at the time of his death at age 71, he was working on his doctoral dissertation in educational leadership.

"He was a much-beloved student and alumnus. And to those of us educations - a true inspiration," said University President Gregory G. Dell'Omo during the ceremony. "We are grateful to the more than 150 individuals who joined together to raise funds to ensure Eugene Marsh's legacy lives here at Rider."

The University also held a wreath-laying ceremony for fallen alumni.

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