Pace University Lubin School of Business alumnus Henry Richard, class of 2025, has completed nine marathons and is preparing for his tenth in April. Richard said marathon running became a way to overcome personal tragedy, build community, and improve himself after the loss of his younger brother during the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013.
Richard’s story highlights how he used running not only as a physical challenge but also as a means to channel grief into positive action. After his brother Martin was killed at age eight during the bombing, an image of Martin holding a sign reading “No More Hurting People, Peace” spread widely online and became a symbol for compassion.
In response to this tragedy, Richard’s parents established the Martin Richard Foundation in early 2014. The foundation supports programs that promote sportsmanship, inclusion, kindness, and peace among young people. It has provided more than ten million dollars in support across over 250 communities through various initiatives including inclusive sports programs and the creation of Martin’s Park in Boston.
Reflecting on his family’s efforts to honor Martin’s legacy through philanthropy and community work, Richard said: “I’m really proud of them. I’m grateful to my parents for being so strong… When the idea for the foundation was born, they wanted to turn something tragic into something that could be inspiring.”
Running became central not just for personal healing but also for honoring his brother. Through Team MR8—a global group supporting runners participating in events like the Boston Marathon—Richard found purpose by joining others who run in memory of Martin each year. He described completing his first marathon during freshman year at Pace as fulfilling a long-held promise: “The Boston Marathon was always a symbol of strength and resilience for me.”
Beyond athletics, Richard contributed to campus life by helping found Soul-Fighter at Pace University—a student club promoting wellness through boxing-inspired training methods.
As he prepares for another Boston Marathon this April while working as an underwriting assistant at eMaxx Assurance Group, Richard remains motivated by gratitude toward those who have supported him along the way: “It shaped me into the man I am today… The people you surround yourself with are always the most important thing.”
