After working in the insurance industry for approximately 10 years, Steve Marsh joined a local broker to assist in managing his clients. First starting as an employee and then 10 years ago, he bought the broker's business. Starting out as a small at-home business Steve and his wife, Rosemary have built it into a business that employs three staff and two off site associates located in an office in Hess Village in Hamilton. Steve has grown the business by 350% and now is proud to represent 65 national and international corporate clients. A dedicated member of his community, Steve has volunteered with Camp Maple Leaf, the Tiger Town Council, Habitat for Humanity and the Mohawk Alumni Council, among others.

What was the #1 reason you chose to attend Mohawk?

Quite honestly, because Hamilton was home, after all the considerations, it made most sense. It was all about continuing my education.

What 1 piece of advice you’ve received in the past has stuck with you to this day?

“Progress, not Perfection.” When you work, work hard. Harder than the next guy. When you play, do that the same way as you work. Enjoy life and the people around you who you share it with…

If you could go back in time, what 1 piece of advice would you give to yourself on the first day of College?

Remember, it’s a school. The people around you may make it your second home. Your life will become enriched from the relationships you develop while you are there.

What fictional character/characters do you most personally identify with or admire? Why?

That’s a tough one… I guess, DonQuixote. As one works hard to do one’s best, during their life time, you never know who you will run into along the way and the impact they may have on your life.

What 3 songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?

Anything by Tower of Power, Sister Hazel or Chicago

When you have 30 minutes of free-time, how do you pass the time?

I like checking out iTunes, to build more music for my library. Music drives and inspires me even today.

If you could invite any 5 people to a dinner party who would they be?

Senator Romeo Dollaire, General Rick Hillier, Chuck Mangione, Steve Kupka and Emilio Castillo

Talk about a time that you took a risk and failed, and one where you took a risk and succeeded. What was the difference?

I think this happens every day. Being in business for your self, it’s all about finding ways to mitigate risk. When you have successes, it’s usually because you learned something from when you failed.

If you could give advice to a new student thinking of entering your program what would it be?

Show up. Stay committed. Enjoy what could become a process for life long learning.

How has your education at Mohawk prepared and supported you throughout your career?

After navigating my first year, I chose to get involved with College life. I worked in Student Activities, ran Lunch and Learn programs, participated in events with other departments in the school and generally, had a great time. I ran for student government at the end of my first year and quite frankly, that experience changed my life. I learned leadership skills and if you can believe this, after 32 years, still have a handful of people around that I spent my college years with who I call friends. Most importantly met the coolest girl ever, who today, I call my wife.

Thanks Mohawk. Tending bar at Sam Mitminger’s retirement party had a lasting effect on me. Congratulations again to all of the recipients… I consider myself in the company of some pretty great people!!