Marquis Victor is Founder and Executive Director of Elevated Thought (ET). He leads ET's vision, goals, and mission. He believes "creativity is essential for human flourishing" and grounds his personal and professional pursuits in this perceived truth. Marquis built and facilitated the art and social justice curriculum that serves as the foundation for all of ET's creative youth development work. Marquis designed ET's programs, structures, and aesthetics within a pedagogy that prioritizes a process of conversation, creativity, and collaboration; emphasizing consistent access and opportunities for youth and artists of color within its framework.

 

In addition to being a mixed media artist, father, husband, and former college basketball player, Marquis earned his Doctor of Education at Northeastern University with a focus on organizational leadership within the framework of Paulo Freire's theory of critical consciousness. Before committing his career fully to establishing ET in Lawrence, Marquis gathered over 7 years of public school experience as both an educator and administrator. A recognized leader in the field and a staunch advocate for youth voice and artists, Marquis also serves on the boards of the Umbrella Arts Center and Philanthropy Massachusetts.