Marc Was Wicked Smart

I met Marc in grad school, and from day one, he stood out. He was wicked smart—the kind of person you half-joked could teach the class instead of take it. But even if he wasn’t standing at the front of the room, he was still a teacher. If you so much as mentioned the word “finance,” Marc would light up, pull up a chair, and walk you through even the most complex concepts with ease (and probably a stock tip or two). He loved sharing what he knew—not to impress, but because he genuinely wanted to help others grow.

Marc cared deeply about people. He was generous with his time, always willing to explain, support, and cheer others on. He had this rare ability to balance brilliance with humility, and humor with heart. And when it came time to have fun—Marc was the life of the party. First on the dance floor, last to leave, always bringing energy, laughter, and that unmistakable spark.

Life has a way of pulling us in different directions, and while we didn’t see each other often, I truly cherished every reunion. That’s why it’s so hard to accept that someone as vibrant and full of life as Marc could be gone.

Of all the things Marc accomplished in the decade I knew him—and there were many—the most joyful I ever saw him was when he talked about his two great loves: Kiera and Drew. 

Andrea Coletta