Meet Freda Marshall | Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Freda Marshall and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Freda, what role has risk played in your life or career?
As a female leader, I recognize that risk is inherent in leadership. Throughout history, leaders who have made significant strides in advancing social, political, and economic equality have had to take bold risks in the face of adversity. However, as a black woman, I am acutely aware that taking risks can come with unique challenges and consequences often not faced by other leaders. For me, risk-taking has been about seizing opportunities others may not have seen. It has involved making bold moves, taking on new challenges, and stepping outside my comfort zone. These risks have not always paid off but have helped me grow and learn as a leader.
One of the most significant risks I took in my career was leaving a stable job to serve as the Executive Director of a cultural center needing serious community engagement and financial support. It was a leap of faith, but it allowed me to follow my passion and significantly impact my community. It was risky, but it has already paid off in ways I never imagined.
I have also had to take risks in advocating for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It has not always been easy but creating opportunities for underrepresented groups and challenging the status quo is vital.
As a leader, I strive to create a culture of inclusivity and empowerment that encourages others to take risks and push boundaries while also ensuring that we take necessary precautions to minimize potential adverse outcomes.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been focused on making a positive impact in the world through non-profit work and training and development. I have always been passionate about helping others and finding ways to create lasting change. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of organizations and individuals, each with their unique challenges and goals. In my work with non-profits, I have focused on developing and implementing programs that address critical socio-economic issues. This has included everything from community outreach and education to fundraising and advocacy. I have worked with organizations focused on issues such as poverty, education, and social justice, and have found great fulfillment in being a part of these efforts to make the world a better place. In addition to my non-profit work, I have also focused on training and development, helping individuals and organizations to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. This has included leadership development, team building, and skills training, among other areas. I believe strongly in the power of education and training to improve people’s lives and to create positive change in organizations and communities. Overall, my career in non-profit and training and development has been incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the world in whatever ways I can.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would have to say that the Dunbar Pavilion is my favorite spot in Tucson. As the Executive Director, I may be a little biased, but the rich history that the pavilion holds is truly captivating. From the moment you step inside the doors, you can feel the weight of the past and the importance of the cultural events that are hosted there.

The Dunbar Pavilion will be the heart of Tucson’s African American community, serving as a resource and business empowerment center and hub for social and cultural events. It was named after the famous poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, who was a prominent figure in the African American literary movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Attending cultural events at the Dunbar Pavilion is not only a way to honor the past and celebrate the present, but it is also a way to ensure that the legacy of the African American community in Tucson lives on for future generations. As the Executive Director, I am honored to be a part of this important mission and to help preserve the rich history and culture of this beloved institution.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
If it weren’t for my Wilberforce University Psychology professor, Dr. Eugenia Shittu, I would not be here to share my story. Dr. Shittu changed my life by going the extra mile to get to know me as a person, my struggles, and my desire to be better than what I was around. She is the reason I studied Industrial Organizational Psychology and the reason I graduated. She believed in me and pushed me beyond my self-imposed limitations.

I also want to thank my exceptional children. They have been my biggest supporters and have always been there for me, cheering me on every step of the way. Their encouragement has driven my perseverance, and I could not have done it without them. Through all the challenges and obstacles that have come my way, Taylor and James have been my rock. Their unwavering belief in me and my abilities has given me the strength to keep going, even when things seem impossible. I am so grateful for their love, support, and motivation. They have taught me what resilience means and inspired me to become the best version of myself. I am truly blessed to have them in my life and am so proud to be their parent.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my small circle of female friends who constantly challenge and support me through all my endeavors.

Website: www.thedunbartucson.org