UD Renames a Stuart Hall in Honor of Former Rector

Kaitlin Lewis    
Contributing Writer

On Nov. 10, the University of Dayton officially dedicated one of the three halls in Stuart Complex to former rector Father Paul Marshall, S.M.

The residential hall, now named Marshall, was previously called Adele in honor of Blessed Adele de Batz de Trenquelleon, a founder of the Marianist Sisters. It was renamed because the new residential center in the South Student Neighborhood, Adele Center, was dedicated to the Marianist leader.

Marshall Hall is the first building on campus named after an African-American; although, there is a meeting room in Curran Place named after the former rector.

The dedication ceremony took place in the lobby of Stuart Complex and was attended by 50-60 individuals including staff, religious, students and Marshall’s family.

He grew up in Cleveland and graduated from UD in 1969. After receiving a bachelor’s degree, Marshall served as the director of the Urban Corps Program in Dayton.

Marshall returned to UD as an associate professor in the department of religious studies, after serving at a Cleveland parish for 17 years. He was named rector in 2005 and served in that position for five years. In July 2014, Marshall passed away while visiting India. He was 66 years old and served as a religious for 47 years.

Plenty of students, staff and faculty were touched by the life of Marshall, making the dedication meaningful for many. He was viewed as a leader in the black Catholic community and had a passion for social justice.

His own words best explain what Marshall’s faith meant to him:

“The Marianists have always been open to someone of a different culture. Our life together, I believe, is a witness to the kingdom of God. Every race, culture, and people is called to be followers of God. Working for freedom and promoting the faith in the black community has given meaning to my life as a Marianist.”