Marquette Students From Niles Make a Difference in Gulf Region

Two Niles students attending Marquette University were among 94 students who traveled by van to New Orleans over winter break with the Marquette MARDI GRAS program.

MARDI GRAS, which stands for Making A Real Difference in the Gulf Region and Areas Surrounding, is a student-run organization at Marquette, created in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf region. MARDI GRAS aims to form meaningful relationships within the community of New Orleans, rebuild homes and neighborhoods and raise awareness about the needs of the post-Katrina Gulf region.

Andrew Terenzio, a sophomore entrepreneurship major from Niles, Ill., participated in the trip.

Therese Casey, a junior exercise physiology major from Niles, Ill., participated in the trip.

Their tasks ranged from lot clearing to dry walling, sanding, painting, building a shed and any other tasks that needed to be completed at the sites. Additionally, MARDI GRAS students had the opportunity attend a Tulane basketball game and meet with Ed Conroy, Tulane's head coach, who has been supportive of Marquette's efforts in the area.

"Many Marquette alumni have helped MARDI GRAS over the years – providing dinners and furthering the mission and ability to operate as an organization," said Daniel Hughes, Marquette University MARDI GRAS Vice President. "Marquette's mantra as men and women for others could not be truer for the alumni and students that partake in these trips."

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