J1 Reporter Emily Evans

In 2010, Marian made a bold uniform transformation. The previous hunter green uniform was retired after 24 years and replaced by the current royal blue outfit.

A committee was formed to select the previous black and green uniform. However, the green uniform puzzled many people. “I was very confused when I bought my daughter’s uniform, and it was green,” said Mrs. Nancy Casey, Alumnae Director. Casey’s daughters, Mary Kate and Elizabeth, graduated from Marian in 2008 and 2009.

The desire to switch to blue began with a another committee. It included six students, a few parents and teachers. They met to determine what the new uniform would look like. This committee, with the help of  Dr. Susan Toohey, was the driving factor to creating a uniform that would be the right fit for Marian.

The process began by interviewing three local companies. Eventually, Educational Outfitters, owned by Marian alumna Mary Gordon, was chosen to help create and make the uniforms.

The committee was looking for a durable uniform that would look appealing, as well as coincide with the new, revamped, Marian brand. Several options were considered, including blazers with ties, uniform shoes and mass sweaters.

According to Dean of Discipline, Ms. Ronda Motykowski, “A sweatshirt option was ruled out in an effort to make the uniform look cleaner.” Eventually, the committee decided on the current uniform; a plaid skirt or black pants, a blue Marian polo, a grey or black sweater and grey or black socks. Regarding the options, Motykowski explained, “A small selection of choices kept everyone on the same page.”

In the fall of 2010, ninth, tenth and eleventh grade students were expected to arrive to classes in the new royal blue and plaid uniforms. The graduating Class of 2011 was the last to sport the green and black plaid uniform. By the fall of 2011, the entire student body was clad in royal blue.

The change in uniform helped to unite the school and form a cohesive brand. The committee organizer, Assistant to the Principal, Mrs. Michelle Delisi said, “When I saw everyone together in the gym I got chills. I think the change is great!”