a computer rendering of the Ohio State Marion downtown hub

Downtown Marion

Building Trust. Building Together. Anchoring Downtown Marion’s Next Chapter. A Hub for Innovation, Connection, and Community — in the Heart of Marion.

Becoming Part of the Downtown Transformation

Ohio State Marion is deeply committed — contributing faculty expertise, innovative programming, and collaborative energy to help drive the transformation of downtown Marion. By establishing a vibrant downtown hub, we’re not just joining the movement — we’re anchoring a block still in need of revitalization. This space will be a living laboratory for innovation, design thinking, and civic renewal — where campus and community unite to imagine and build Marion’s future. Marion in scale. Ohio State in scope.

A Place Where Ideas and Community Meet

The downtown hub will connect students, faculty, and community partners through creativity, problem-solving, and purpose. From design-thinking sessions and civic roundtables to public exhibits and student showcases, will spark collaboration and grow Marion’s capacity to dream and work together.

Why It Matters

  • Anchors a key block in Marion’s downtown revival
  • Builds partnerships between campus and community
  • Expands hands-on learning for students
  • Sparks creativity and regional innovation
  • Advances Ohio State’s land-grant mission locally

"This space will connect Marion’s brightest ideas with its boldest people — exactly what a regional university should do."

Dr. Jennifer Schlueter, Dean, Ohio State Marion

Bringing the Vision to Life

Planned Uses of the Space

  • Innovation Labs: Collaborative workspaces for students, faculty, and partners
  • Public Forums & Roundtables: Open gatherings for dialogue and design thinking
  • Student & Faculty Showcases: Exhibits of research, art, and community projects
  • Leadership Workshops: Empowering Marion’s current and future leaders
  • Creative & Cultural Programs: Pop-up performances, installations, and speaker series
  • Wellness & Belonging: Initiatives that connect people and promote holistic wellbeing

Our Timeline

2024 – 2025:Visioning & Community Planning

→ 2026:Renovation & Grand Opening

→ 2027 and Beyond:A thriving hub for innovation, engagement, and regional impact

Your Impact

Every gift — whether supporting renovation, programming, or operations — helps transform this vision into reality. Your partnership ensures Ohio State Marion continues to be both a leader in education and a catalyst for community revitalization in downtown Marion.