Scholars Harness the Power of Creativity to Make a Difference
Scholarship Winners: Marley Marsalis, Danielle Johnson, Trina Clark
Marley Marsalis
Honoring Those Who Came Before by Working Hard to Make a Difference
Marley Marsalis has always been aware of her heritage and how she can honor the achievements of those who came before her, never taking for granted the many opportunities she has received as a result of their efforts.
“Knowing that my African ancestors fought against systems of oppression through their intellectual skills has always inspired me to achieve greatness and take advantage of every opportunity,” said Marley, who is majoring in Music Performance and Africana Studies with a minor in French. “Hearing the stories of my great relatives who successfully survived Jim Crow laws reminded me that the rights I have today are due to their sacrifices, and therefore I must strive for greatness and to make a difference.”
Marley, the granddaughter of jazz pianist and educator Ellis Marsalis Jr., has played piano since the age of five. A 2024 graduate of Cabrini High School in New Orleans, she chose to double major to take advantage of the many academic opportunities available at Tulane, and she has participated in study abroad programs. She explained that she shares her experiences with other Black students “to uplift and further advance my fellow brothers and sisters”
Marley said she admires the way the 431 Exchange “pays homage to the alums of the Adult Education Center who historically fought through systemic racism and achieved successful careers, and this nonprofit is committed to supporting fair and just academic success for adults.”
Danielle Johnson
From Surviving to Building a Life Rooted in Impact
Inspired by the need to lead the way for her children, Danielle Johnson has moved beyond “surviving and providing” to connect with a broader purpose.
“I’m a nontraditional student and at 40 years old, I feel like I am just beginning to truly understand my purpose. My children are watching how I respond to challenges, growth and change,” Danielle explained. “I’m intentionally building a life rooted in faith, education and impact. (I’m) showing them that it is never too late to grow, to learn and I want them to see that learning is lifelong and reinvention is possible at any stage.”
A 2003 graduate of Frederick A. Douglass High School in New Orleans, Danielle earned a bachelor of arts degree in graphic design and media arts from Southern New Hampshire University. She is now pursuing a master’s degree in marketing and communications from Loyola University. She said the program is helping her to build on her communication skills and combine her graphic design expertise and storytelling ability with strategy. She plans to create a business “that helps others share their message with clarity and confidence.” She also hopes work with educational curriculum planning, and create lesson plans to fully engage learners.
As a student who found her way back to higher education after being out in the working world and also having a family, Danielle appreciates the way the 431 Exchange supports adult students. “What inspires me is (the 431 Exchange’s) belief that people are worth investing in,” she said. “Life does not always move in a straight line, and support at the right time can change everything. You show that growth, access and second chances matter, and I admire that you choose to pour into our potential.”
Trina Clark
Moving Past Trauma and Relying on Faith as she Works Toward a Brighter Future
Trina Clark endured some difficult experiences growing up, but as a person of faith, she refused to get discouraged. Resulting physical and emotional challenges may have slowed her progress, but Trina is relying on her faith in God as she moves forward to earn a degree in General Studies in English from Delgado Community College in New Orleans.
“I give all praise to my Creator,” says Trina, who graduated from McDonogh 35 Senior High in New Orleans in 1992, attended Southern University in 1995, and worked for years to return to school. “I continue to maintain confidence in completing my studies regardless of my circumstances by remaining spiritually strong and religiously dedicated.”
Her goal is to work as a freelance copy editor and proofreader. Trina said Delgado offers literature courses focusing on professional writing and African American women and authors and she is confident in the program’s ability to fine tune and develop her language arts skills. After completing her studies at Delgado, she plans to transfer to a four-year college.
As a legacy scholar (Trina is the niece of Adult Education Center graduate Joyce Bryant Numan of the class of 1970), she is particularly aware of the 431 Exchange’s history and the legacy of the AEC. “I am inspired by my aunt, Joyce Numan, and the 431 Exchange’s efforts to remain engaged with the community through your newsletter and podcasts (which I enjoy listening to.) Thank you for your commitment.”