Matches made at Eastern

When Marci Reisman ’12 stepped onto campus for the first time during summer orientation, she had no idea that she was about to meet her future husband. When her twin brother Matthew ’12 introduced her to Shaun Belton ’12, however, that’s just what happened.

Shaun, who was Matthew’s orientation counselor at the time, was charmed by Marci’s style and upbeat attitude. “I remember we played foosball together during the social hour,” said Shaun, adding that he won. “She always smiled and laughed a lot, but most importantly, she was always nice during our interactions. Her kindness was very infectious.”

The pair spoke briefly that summer following orientation, but their friendship quickly evolved that fall semester. “A few lunch dates at Hurley and the Student Center helped me learn more about her, which made the attraction grow,” said Shaun, who majored in psychology. Marci was a sociology major with a criminology minor, placing them on somewhat similar educational paths.

Outside the classroom, the two were active members of the campus community. Shaun worked in the Student Center, in addition to his involvement with the MALES organization, Student Activities Office and his role as an orientation counselor. For her part, Marci worked as a residence assistant (RA) and was active with the FEMALES organization, serving as president. Marci and her brother were also founding members of the Fashion Forward club.

Despite their busy schedules, Marci and Shaun found ways to spend time with each other. They would study together and go to Hurley Hall for meals. When time allowed, they would get away from campus for walks through Mansfield Hollow.

After graduation, Shaun and Marci continued their relationship, although now at a distance. When Marci took a job at Loyola University in Baltimore as the assistant director for campus life, Shaun was working for Post University in Waterbury as an admissions counselor.

“My role became remote and I joined her in the move to Baltimore,” said Shaun. The pair loved their time in Maryland, but job opportunities moved them back North. “We are now working for Big 4 firms and living in Boston,” said Shaun.

Looking back at Eastern 10 years after their graduation, Shaun said, “We not only got the opportunity to earn a great education, but it’s also where we grew up. It’s the place that helped mold us into the adults we are today. We got a chance to meet amazing people who we are both still connected with to this day. It’s also the place where we first met. Safe to say, Eastern will always have a very special place in our hearts.”