Joseph and Marcia Schelling met at a party on Dill Street in 1974 in Muncie, Indiana. Six months later, they were walking down the aisle and saying their vows. The happy couple couldn’t think of a better place to be than Ball State University during  Homecoming Week to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary on October 26, 2024. It wasn’t until their senior year, two weeks before graduating, that their paths crossed. Joseph followed in his father’s footsteps, who asked his wife to marry him after two weeks of knowing her, but Joseph was cautious and waited three. After graduating, they got engaged, and from then on, “the rest was history.”

A Legacy of Love

They had four daughters, all of whom attended Ball State University. Three of their daughters graduated and were recipients of the Ball State University Legacy Scholarship. Their son-in-law also took part in the family legacy as a fellow Cardinal Alum. 

Joseph had the privilege of going back to school to receive his MBA in 2006. During this time, his daughter was also attending the University as an undergraduate. This provided a unique father-daughter bonding opportunity as Joseph saw how academia had changed since his undergraduate years.

Joseph and Marcia still stay in touch with the Alumni Association to follow events, activities, fundraisers, and more happening on campus and in the community. Their favorite way to stay in touch is through sports. Although they are unable to attend the games, they often watch the men’s and women’s basketball team and football team on TV.

Throughout their time supporting Ball State University and building a life, they found their dedication to family key to their relationship. Marcia said one of the things she loves most about her husband is how well he’s done in life and what a great dad he has been to their children. 

Joseph had similar comments about Marcia, “She has been just a wonderful mother to our kids and she has been very caring for me. Like all couples, you can have trials and tribulations in life and you work through those and she was always there giving support to all of us.”

Joseph and Marcia have been fortunate to have eleven grandchildren ranging from three to thirteen. Although there is still plenty of time, they hope to see the tradition and legacy continue as they apply for colleges. 

“We are a Ball State Family,” Marcia said.