I’ll never forget when the GFWC ladies got up on stage at NCYLS and threw cookies into the audience. Marcene had a rocket of an arm, and students were ducking out of the way to avoid being knocked out by flying packages of Oreos. I remember laughing so hard that I cried. It was intended to be a funny moment, but it was also a beautiful representation of one of the many contributions that Marcene has made to the world: her endless supply of homemade cookies that could put a smile on your face in just about any situation.

Of course, Marcene did much more than warm hearts and bellies with delicious baked goods. Her deep dedication to NCYLS for decades has changed hundreds of lives. For the past several years, I have worked with the seminar to recruit students. I get to tell schools and parents that our seminar, which costs thousands of dollars, is free for their student. It’s hard for me to put into words how much joy that sentence gives to our seminar participants. Marcene gave many young people an opportunity that they may not have been able to afford, or may not have had access to. She fundraised, publicized, garnered support for, and poured her love into helping young people have a life-changing experience.

Aside from all of her contributions to NCYLS and the world, Marcene had one of the most amazing presences of anyone I have ever met. I always looked forward to seeing her and loved when she would come to Board meetings in her sparkly shoes and pink shirts, ready to greet everyone with a big hug and lots of love. It was as if the energy in the room would triple after she walked in. She also had an amazing ability to make everyone feel so at ease around her. I always felt so welcome - there was no judgment from her, just love. The older I get, the more I realize how rare this feeling is. I also realize how special this feeling is.

I am so grateful to have known Marcene. Thank you Marcene for your unfaltering love for the people around you. May your beautiful spirit rest in peace and may your family feel loved and supported as they mourn your loss.