When seven students from Columbia’s M.P.S. in Wealth Management program decided to lace up for the 50th Marine Corps Marathon last month, none of them imagined the experience would become a defining moment of their graduate journey. As students in an online, asynchronous program, they reside all over the country, which made coming together in person for a shared challenge even more meaningful. What began as a simple idea sparked by a cohort conversation quickly transformed into a powerful display of discipline, unity, and purpose.
The group—Austin Anderson, Brandon Arnold, James Davidson, Vanessa Garl, David Harrison, Tevin Jeannis, and Katie Tschida—balanced demanding coursework, full-time careers, and family obligations while committing to months of training. Guided by Mike Dyczkiewycz, a naval aviator in the U.S. Navy Reserves, and the team’s volunteer coach and trainer, the students took on the name ROARing Lions, inspired by the “ROAR” framework that author and guest speaker Michael Clinton introduced during their Columbia residency: Reflect, Observe, Act, and Reimagine.
For Katie, the decision to run was rooted in connection, both to her cohort and to the veterans within it. “I was inspired by the determination of my fellow cohort members,” she shared. “Running the Marine Corps Marathon in honor of those who have served in our Columbia community made it all the more special. These friends have supported me through graduate school, career growth, and now 26.2 miles of running. Grateful is an understatement.”
The spark came from David, whose leadership turned a casual chat into a year-long commitment. “What started as a virtual cohort coffee mixer became a journey of shared purpose for seven of us,” David explained. “We wanted to show that discipline, resilience, and community could thrive even in the midst of academic rigor. Our marathon wasn’t just about running; it was about who we chose to become together.”
Driven by both personal ambition and collective impact, the team dedicated their race to Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), raising more than $5,000, later doubled when a teammate’s family matched the donation. Supporting veterans became a unifying force that gave every mile deeper meaning.
For Austin, joining the race was an immediate “yes.” He shares: “Running my first marathon for a cause that honors service made every step meaningful. Life was chaotic—moving states, getting engaged, juggling school—but backing out was never an option. Crossing that finish line reminded me what discipline, purpose, and community can achieve.”
Even seasoned marathon runner James found the experience special. “Running 26 miles isn’t exactly thrilling, but doing it with this group, and for a cause like Team RWB, made it a no-brainer. Our cohort’s support is unmatched. Finding each other in a sea of 30,000 runners is a moment I’ll never forget.”
Vanessa, Tevin, and Brandon rounded out the team, each contributing their energy and commitment. Vanessa’s early determination to maintain fitness during the program ignited the very idea that brought the group together. Her drive, alongside the team’s collective grit, became the heartbeat of the ROARing Lions.
Through early morning runs, shared playlists, setbacks, injuries, and countless hours of training, this group discovered that the marathon was more than a race. It became a living laboratory for the very skills at the core of wealth management: discipline, teamwork, adaptability, and long-term vision.
Their finish-line moment wasn’t just the end of 26.2 miles—it was the beginning of a tradition. The ROARing Lions are already planning their next event, determined to expand participation to alumni and incoming students and to continue fundraising for veterans.
For Columbia’s Wealth Management Class of 2026, the Marine Corps Marathon wasn’t simply an athletic achievement. It was a testament to what happens when seven individuals from across the country choose to pursue something bigger than themselves — and run toward it together.
About the Program
Columbia University’s Master of Professional Studies in Wealth Management program is a 16-month online program with asynchronous instruction specially designed to accommodate working professionals. It is taught by distinguished faculty with deep applied experience in their respective fields. Additionally, it is a CFP Board Registered Program designed to help students meet the educational requirement for CFP® certification.
The priority application deadline for the M.P.S. in Wealth Management program is January 15, with a final deadline of May 1. Learn more about the program here.
