Marian Hoffman '85

After earning her BS in industrial management from Clemson University, Marian Hoffman spent her early career in corporate human resources and training. A fun pivot took her to Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago, where she was a full-time student for two years, earning an Associate’s Degree in culinary arts—a creative detour that reflected her love of learning and great food, but ultimately not a new career. When her family relocated to New York City, Marian shifted her focus entirely to nurturing her three sons—including one with complex special needs. This became her full-time job, where she developed her talents for advocacy, listening, and community leadership. Those same skills now shape her work as an ICF certified professional life coach. Service has always been Marian’s quiet through-line—from chairing galas that raise critical funds for organizations like WestHab, to mentoring young women through the University of Notre Dame’s Cavanaugh Council program. Her role on Notre Dame’s Library Council reflects her enduring belief in the power of education—a value deeply rooted in her own experience as a GPS student. Whether supporting a corporate team, a struggling school, a coaching client, or her own children, Marian’s work has always been about helping others grow into who they’re meant to be.