Presenter Bio - Marie Tyrrell

Marie Tyrrell is a passionate advocate for experiential learning, with a specific emphasis on internships and equity. She currently serves as the Internship Development Coordinator with the Colorado State University Career Center, where she plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic learning and practical experience.

Marie manages a comprehensive directory of internship opportunities across eight colleges and works closely with faculty and staff to ensure these experiences are meaningful and accessible.

Marie is dedicated to making sure all students have equitable access to internships, especially those from historically excluded backgrounds. She contributes to strategic initiatives aimed at closing opportunity gaps among these populations across the university. These initiatives include collaboration with colleagues to analyze feedback from students, using their stories to improve internship programs and close opportunity gaps; monthly committee work to read applications and award need-based funding earmarked for student professional development; and advocacy for paid internship opportunities both internal and external to the university.
Each summer, Marie leads a portfolio of internship programs designed to help students develop their careers while staying true to their identities. These programs serve approximately 50 students annually, emphasizing student self-authorship and personalized career pathways. Her approach not only equips students with practical skills but also empowers them to navigate their professional journeys with confidence and clarity.

Marie’s expertise extends beyond program management to include extensive work with small and local businesses. As a liaison, she facilitates creative partnerships that meet the needs of both students and employers, ensuring mutually beneficial engagements. Her role involves regular collaboration with workforce development and small business council administrators, highlighting her ability to create synergies that enhance student recruitment and professional readiness.

Marie began her career with over a decade of experience focused on maximizing student success and postgraduation outcomes for student-athletes at multiple universities, including Michigan State University, North Carolina State University, the University of Wyoming, and Colorado State University. Her work consistently supported the academic and professional growth of student-athletes, fostering environments where they could thrive both on and off the field.

With a warm and welcoming demeanor, Marie Tyrrell combines her extensive expertise with a genuine passion for student development, making her a vital asset to the educational community and a dedicated advocate for equitable experiential learning opportunities.