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Newsroom

Caroline Cruise

Jim ’85 and Susan (Hicks) Marrano ’81, MBA ’90 and their three children Dan ’13; Erica ’15; and Jim Jr. ’11, MSA ’12 have six (soon to be seven) degrees among them.

What made you decide to attend Bentley?

Susan: I was taking an accounting course in high school and loved it. My guidance counselor thought Bentley would be a great fit.

Jim Senior: My hockey coach suggested it was a premier college that offered a strong business curriculum, dedicated professors, a wonderful campus, and a great student body. He was 100 percent right on all fronts.

Jim Junior: I applied to all different business schools, but Bentley’s campus really impressed me. 

What are some benefits to sharing an alma mater?

Dan: Being able to give and receive guidance on what classes and professors to take early in your college career. It helps navigate the waters a little as a freshman.

Erica: It has brought my family closer as it’s such an important four years of life. We are able to discuss memories and experiences together.

How do you hope Bentley will continue to be part of your life?

Dan: I hope to be able to visit during Homecoming and fraternity reunions, to see how the school has changed but also remained the same.

Jim Senior: Hockey has been a big part of our family. My hope is that Bentley continues to invest in its hockey program and someday the entire family can spend a Saturday night on campus attending a Falcons hockey game.

Were you happy that your children chose Bentley?

Susan: Very. There are only three things in life that I want my children to have and Bentley was part of those things. Be happy, be healthy, and be able to support yourself.

Jim Senior: Yes — and I am even happier they have all graduated with a fantastic well-rounded business education and have such a large jump on many of their peers in beginning business careers. Susan and I are proud to have been able to send all three children to such a fine institution. I would like to thank Bentley for their part in our family’s success.

Tell us about a memorable course or professor.

Susan: Accounting 101 with Professor Hall. Known to be one of the toughest accounting professors at the time. First test, freshman year, I received the highest grade in the class. I was one of only two females in the class.

Favorite pub or restaurant?

Jim Senior and Susan: The Chateau. With all three children attending Bentley we have been able to continue this tradition with several trips to The Chateau each year.

Dan, Jim Junior, Erica: The Skellig on Thursday nights.

What three words say Bentley to you?

Susan: Knowledgeable, curious and compassionate

Jim Senior: Business, campus and hockey

Dan: Challenging, competitive and balanced

Erica: Inspiration, knowledge and preparation