//PICTURED ABOVE: Cynthia “Cynt” Marshall empowers the Hockaday student body at the 2019 All-School MLK Day Event.

On January 18th, Cynthia “Cynt” Marshall, CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, joined the Hockaday community, speaking at the 2019 All-School Martin Luther King Jr. event, and inspired us to be “mavericks.”

Throughout the school year, Dr. Karen Warren Coleman, Eugene McDermott Head of School, has been on a crucial hunt to find the best Commencement speaker for the graduating class. After various lunches, meetings and special events spent talking to the seniors, Coleman arrived at a decision of who she thought would meet the requests of the Class of 2019. Hence, Marshall was asked to return to Hockaday to address the soon to be graduates, an offer she was excited to receive.

“I was in awe with the talent I witnessed and the spirit of the students and faculty,” Marshall said.

Not only was Marshall excited by the opportunity to return to Hockaday on May 18, but members of the graduating class are also eager to hear her speak again, including Dominique Buford, soon-to-be graduate.

“I am very excited to have a black woman speak at commencement,” Buford said.

After learning more about Marshall in one of their recent form meetings, the seniors became excited to see what they can learn from Marshall, due to the fact that she has had many obstacles to overcome over the course of her life.

Not only are students anticipating her address, but Coleman is confident in the ability of Marshall to leave a lasting impact on the Hockaday community.

“Cynt Marshall understands Hockaday, is a staunch supporter of all-girls’ education, believes in our mission, and has committed her life to ensure that there is always space ‘at the table’ for people with differing life experiences and perspective,” Coleman said.

Marshall’s perseverance and wisdom radiate through her personality and the words that she speaks. When asked about how she managed the difficulties of being a minority, she saw the situation as a unique opportunity, making her the perfect candidate to inspire the graduates.

“I never saw being the only woman or only black person as a problem. I use it as an asset to help others understand and embrace differences,” Marshall said.

While many are on the edge of their seats to know what Marshall will be speaking about on Commencement night, she gave a sneak peek on what the audience can expect.

“I hope to encourage you to live a life of 3 P’s — passion, purpose and perspective,” Marshall said.

Many of the members of Hockaday’s faculty and students are beyond excited to welcome Marshall back into our school to address the graduating class. She has a genuine passion on the topics for which she speaks, and has a true desire to inspire the Hockaday students.

After her speech, the seniors will be ready to go into college and the rest of their lives with wisdom through the words of Marshall.

Speaking highly of the senior class, Marshall is excited to spend time speaking to the graduates.

“Our future is in great hands. The world will be alright,” Marshall said.

Story by Lacy Green

Photo provided by The Hockaday School