This fall, Marymount University proudly welcomes its largest incoming class ever for the second consecutive year. Among these new Saints in the Class of 2029 are students who are already making their mark as scholars, athletes, leaders and community builders. From the wrestling mat to the flag football field, from nursing labs to engineering classrooms, these students embody the energy, ambition and spirit of Marymount.
Below, meet just a few of the standout members of the Class of 2029 who are ready to learn, lead and leave an impact on the community.
Ramon Barboa
Major: Biochemistry
Hometown: Savannah, Ga.
Men’s Wrestling Team
A Biochemistry major from Savannah, Ga., Ramon Barboa has a passion for wrestling, ministry and mentorship. He was recruited by Marymount’s Coach Roy Hill after years of building and leading his high school wrestling program, where he also coached elementary school students and helped grow the sport in his community. Coaching young athletes gave him a sense of responsibility and leadership, teaching him the importance of being a role model on and off the mat.
His passion for science and medicine was shaped by his own health challenges, which inspired him to pursue a career in neonatology to care for the most vulnerable patients—newborns. Beyond academics and athletics, faith plays a central role in Barboa’s life. He leads Bible studies online and looks forward to getting involved in ministry at Marymount.
“My prayer is that I’ll leave an impact on Marymount. I know I’ll gain an education and a degree, but I hope to give back too, whether it’s through wrestling, ministry or mentoring others. I want to make a difference in the community I’m becoming a part of.”
Baylen Newcomb
Major: Business Administration
Hometown: Virginia Beach, Va.
Men’s Baseball Team
Baylen Newcomb, a Virginia Beach native, is set to join Marymount’s Class of 2029 as a Business Administration major and member of the Saints baseball team. Growing up surrounded by entrepreneurs—his parents, grandparents and extended family all operated their own businesses—he has long envisioned pursuing an entrepreneurial path of his own.
At Marymount, Newcomb looks forward to gaining hands-on business experience through internships in the D.C. area while also making his mark on the baseball field. His competitive spirit, fueled by years of travel ball, drew him to Marymount’s program.
Outside of academics and athletics, Newcomb has already learned valuable life lessons through his work as a jet ski tour guide in Virginia Beach, where he developed quick thinking, leadership and resilience skills in high-pressure situations. As he transitions to college life, he is eager to embrace new challenges, build lasting friendships and contribute to the University.
“I’m excited to become part of the Marymount community. I know college will bring new opportunities and challenges, but I’m ready for them and can’t wait to see how much I grow.”
Jane Stedje-Larsen
Major: Nursing
Hometown: Virginia Beach, Va.
Jane Stedje-Larsen comes to Marymount from a military family, having lived in different countries and across the U.S. before settling in Virginia Beach. The constant moves gave her a love of new experiences and shaped her into someone who welcomes change with optimism. Marymount’s welcoming size, Catholic identity and strong sense of community made it the perfect fit when it came time to choose a college. Receiving her acceptance letter and scholarship confirmed her decision.
Stedje-Larsen plans to pursue nursing, inspired by her father’s career as an anesthesiologist and her mother’s dedication as a teacher. She hopes to follow in her father’s footsteps by serving in the Navy as a nurse, blending her passion for health care with her commitment to service. Her leadership experiences, including her time at Girls State when she learned about civic responsibility and teamwork, have already prepared her to step into roles where she can serve others.
On campus, Stedje-Larsen looks forward to getting involved in Campus Ministry, the medical club and even the campus garden, while continuing hobbies like swimming and rock climbing. She sees Marymount as a place where she can not only grow academically but also deepen her faith and leadership skills.
“I’m ready to be on my own, to learn, grow and put down roots. I’m grateful for the opportunities that have led me here and am excited to see what the next four years have in store.”
Wyatt Labonte
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Biddeford, Maine
Men’s Lacrosse Team
Wyatt Labonte, a member of Marymount’s Class of 2029, will pursue a mechanical engineering degree while competing on the Men’s Lacrosse team. Originally from Biddeford, Maine, he was recruited to Marymount after his brother, a former lacrosse player, encouraged him to visit campus. He quickly felt at home and was drawn to the welcoming atmosphere, strong academics and opportunity to continue playing the sport he loves. A standout athlete in high school, he earned All-State recognition in golf, hockey and lacrosse.
Inspired by his father’s career as an engineer at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Labonte has always been fascinated by how things work—from boats to trucks to farming equipment. He hopes to follow in the footsteps of his father and uncle by working in the shipping industry after graduation, combining his technical skills with a sense of adventure. Beyond academics and athletics, he is excited to explore the Washington, D.C., area, especially the food scene, Smithsonian museums and historic landmarks.
“Marymount feels like the perfect fit—I can study what I love, keep playing lacrosse and be in a place where there’s so much to do.”
Isabella Silvestri
Major: Nursing
Hometown: Oswego, N.Y.
Women’s Flag Football Team
Isabella Silvestri, a Nursing major from Owego, N.Y., comes to Marymount with a passion for both academics and athletics. A standout three-sport high school athlete, she led her flag football team to the New York state finals while also playing soccer and lacrosse. Alongside her athletic achievements, she graduated as salutatorian of her class and is entering Marymount with an associate’s degree already completed, putting her on track to graduate in just three years.
Her interest in nursing was strengthened by a high school internship as she rotated through hospital departments, shadowing nurse anesthetists and confirming her goal of becoming a CRNA. She also gained hands-on experience working as a care partner, preparing her for the challenges of clinical rotations ahead. Silvestri is eager to take advantage of the unique opportunities that come with studying in the D.C. area, especially the chance to learn in world-class hospitals.
On campus, she’s excited to be part of Marymount’s growing flag football program while also staying active through clubs and intramurals. As she adjusts to college life as a member of the University’s Class of 2029, Silvestri values the supportive community she has already found in her teammates and coaches.
“Flag football has taught me to push myself harder than I thought possible, and I’m ready to bring that same drive to nursing and life at Marymount.”
