The first of three (3) children, Marcel was born to West African parents in the shadows of the United States Capitol, in Olney, Maryland. During their pursuit of higher education and a better life, they managed to raise bi-cultural children who are committed to living purposeful lives. Carrying forward messages from their parents about the value and transformative power of education, Marcel’s parents instilled in him a desire to learn and be of service. The purpose of education would be shortsighted and lackluster if it was only intended to benefit those who are fortunate enough to have access. Marcel believes the purpose of education is to be applied in ways that meaningfully contribute to the greater good of society.

Marcel is a proud product of the historically Black college (HBCU) experience, having earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Philander Smith College. In addition, Marcel earned a Master of Science in Public Policy Administration (MPA) from the University of Baltimore. Marcel has had the pleasure of serving under the Obama administration as a campus ambassador for the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges & Universities (WHI-HBCU).

Professionally, Marcel has been afforded the opportunity to have consistently served in the area of Student Financial Aid & Scholarships for over a decade. He started his career as a Financial Aid Counselor for the University of Maryland University College (UMUC), now known as University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). He later served as an Assistant Director of Financial Aid for his alma mater, Philander Smith College (PSC) and Johns Hopkins University (JHU). The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) offered Marcel the opportunities to serve as both an Associate Director and University Director of financial aid operations. Most recently, Marcel has relocated to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex to serve as an inaugural Dean of Student Financial Resources & Scholarships.

Marcel is currently earning his doctoral degree in Community College Leadership through Kansas State University. Marcel believes the value of life is found in genuine connections and the making of memories. His service, through education, is his expression of gratitude, and his commitment to living a purposeful life.