It is not an easy task to achieve, so to become one is certainly an honor. For three Marian University seniors, Olivia Thomas ’22, Sandy Sledge ’22, and Lauren Kenny ’21, the prestigious Orr Fellowship is a reality. All three women learned of their huge recognition this fall. How big of a deal is this? On average, Orr Fellowship only accepts less than eight percent of those who apply each year. 
What exactly is an Orr Fellow? It’s a two-year, post-graduate experience, which targets hardworking college students who want to hone their business and entrepreneurial skills while working a full-time salaried position.
For Marian University’s Orr Fellow Sandy Sledge ’22, that means she’ll be working for DemandJump; a marketing strategy platform designed with marketers in mind seeking to optimize visibility for clients.
“Through the process of becoming an Orr Fellow, I have already met such authentic and genuine people, and I am thankful and blessed to begin my professional career with such a great support system,” Sledge said. Beyond job opportunities, fellows gain networking experience and a support system consisting of current fellows and fellowship alumni as they enter their first years in Indianapolis’ professional business scene.
“I am grateful to have the opportunity to gain experience in my young professional career in the uplifting environment of Orr Fellowship,” Marian University Orr Fellow Olivia Thomas ‘22 explained. “I look forward to continuing to create meaningful relationships with the other Orr Fellows and with my partner company, Recruiting Experiences.”
Participants also complete a unique curriculum designed to challenge and further their professional development through mentoring and acquiring new skills for career excellence and success.
“I am so thankful because I would not be in the position I am without all of the faculty and staff I have encountered during my time here at Marian,” Lauren Kenny ‘21 explained. Lauren has accepted a position at the Indy Chamber upon her December graduation. “Everything I’ve done here at Marian University from coursework, internships, and more have prepared me to make meaningful connections, and put in my best efforts in Orr Fellowship and in life.”
Marian University fellows selected in previous years include Kayla Fisher '21, Elena Horen '21, Hannah Robinson ’21, Rachel Moning ’20, Maresa Kelly ’19, Stephanie Purdy ’18, Hana Roessler ’17, Emily Doll ‘16, and Amber Ferrari ’15.