Scholarship Recipient Kennedi Marsh '26 Shares Her Marian Journey

By Kennedi Marsh '26

Opportunity, sisterhood, and service are three words I would use to describe Marian High School. Marian has impacted me in more ways than I could have imagined, helping me grow both academically and socially. When I first arrived, I felt uncertain—I was the only one from my middle school attending Marian. But God has guided me, and the opportunities to connect here helped me build meaningful relationships.

Being a part of Marian Basketball since freshman year has been especially important. It’s where I first found community, with upperclassmen welcoming and supporting me. Whether bonding at team dinners, pushing through tough practices, or cheering each other on, basketball has been my safe space. Our team’s win as MHSAA District Champions for Division 1 Girls Basketball during the 2024–25 season was the most rewarding moment of my Marian experience. Seeing our hard work pay off was unforgettable. Coach Shane Lawal has been a huge inspiration—he constantly encourages us to believe in ourselves and reminds us of the importance of trusting our sisters.

Sisterhood at Marian goes far beyond sports. It’s woven through field day, senior football week, retreats, clubs, and more. I am blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of some amazing clubs and leadership roles at Marian. I serve as Chief Communications Officer for the Business Entrepreneurship Alliance with Marian and Rice (BEAM&R), where I’ve brought in guest speakers to share insights into the business world. I’m also the events coordinator for the Marian Black Student Union, planning field trips and activities that emphasize the importance of culture and community.

Since sophomore year, I’ve been on class board, first as a homeroom representative, then class culture rep, and now, I’m honored to be elected Class Chair (President) for my senior year. This role gives me a platform to listen to my peers and work together to make senior year impactful. I want the Class of 2026 to be remembered for building a legacy of love, respect, unity, and bonds that last far beyond high school.

Receiving three Marian scholarships has been deeply rewarding. It affirms that my hard work is recognized and helps ease the financial burden for my family. I’m incredibly grateful to the donors and hope others are inspired to give more young women opportunities like mine.

Leave your Marian legacy! For a gift of at least $50,000, Marian will establish an individually named scholarship which allows the initiator to participate in establishing the scholarship’s name and award criteria, along with participating in the award selection process. All gifts for endowed scholarships are invested permanently, allowing earnings from the gifts to be used for scholarship awards. For information about making a gift to the Marian Scholarship Fund, or establishing a new scholarship, please contact the Office for Advancement at (248)-644-1946 or advancement@marian-hs.org.