Marcus Wilson
Washington
Summary
Community engagement leader and founder with a proven track record of designing and executing high-impact programs, events, and partnerships across Washington, DC. Skilled in building authentic relationships with schools, nonprofits, and stakeholders to create meaningful, community-centered experiences. Experienced public-facing leader who has raised and managed funding, led large-scale events, and developed initiatives that drive youth engagement, leadership, and belonging.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Founder & CEO
The Village Network
Washington, DC
11.2022 - Current
- Founded and led a community-based organization serving 250+ DC youth through leadership, wellness, and workforce development programming
- Built and managed 5+ strategic partnerships with schools and community organizations, aligning programming with youth needs and interests, as well as school priorities
- Designed and executed signature community events, including: Self-Love Summit (school-wide student wellness and identity-focused experience)
Village Network Student Showcase & Fundraiser (community engagement + fundraising event) - Planned and facilitated workshops, group experiences, and student programming focused on leadership, belonging, and personal/professional development
- Serve as a public-facing representative, engaging school leaders, community stakeholders, and partners across Washington, DC
- Increased organizational budget by 170% through fundraising, donor engagement, and strategic partnerships
- Developed data and feedback collection systems to track program and participant outcomes and feedback, and communicate impact to partners, funders, and stakeholders
Pathways Partnership Fellow
Fair Chance
Washington, DC
09.2024 - 07.2025
- Selected as 1 of 4 nonprofit leaders for a competitive capacity-building fellowship focused on organizational growth and sustainability
- Strengthened internal systems, including board governance, operational planning, and fundraising strategy
- Partnered with executive coaches to refine long-term strategic direction and increase organizational effectiveness
Surge Institute Fellow (Academy & Surge Angels)
Surge Institute
Washington, DC
11.2021 - 06.2024
- Selected for leadership fellowship focused on advancing equity in education and youth development
- Designed and launched The Village Network as a scalable community-based model
- Awarded $50,000 grand prize at Surge Pitch Competition for innovation and impact
- Participated in funding and scaling initiatives through the Surge Angels fellowship
Manager of Program Operations
CityWorks DC
Washington, DC
07.2021 - 05.2024
- Managed day-to-day operations for workforce development programming serving 100+ young adults (ages 18–25)
- Built and maintained partnerships with employers, training providers, post-secondary institutions, and community organizations to support program delivery
- Planned and executed program events and experiences focused on career readiness and professional development
- Led recruitment and engagement strategies, increasing participation and retention
- Coached 75+ participants in goal-setting, career navigation, and skill development while managing program logistics and timelines
Middle School Teacher (5th & 6th Grade)
Multiple Charter Schools
New Orleans, LA & Washington, DC
08.2015 - 06.2021
- Designed and delivered engaging instruction while building strong classroom cultures rooted in belonging and student engagement
- Led classroom and school-based events that fostered community, leadership, and student participation
- Partnered with families and school staff to support student development and academic success
Dean of Student Culture
Breakthrough Collaborative
New Orleans, LA
06.2017 - 08.2018
- Led school culture and student experience for a summer academic program serving 100+ middle school students
- Designed and implemented systems, programs, and events to support student engagement, behavior, and community-building
- Collaborated with staff to enhance programming and improve student outcomes
Education
Bachelor of Science - Middle School Education
University of Georgia
GA05-2015
Skills
- Community Engagement & Partnership Development
- Event Planning & Execution
- Program Design & Implementation
- Stakeholder Relationship Management
- Youth Development & Leadership Programming
- Public Speaking & Facilitation
- Fundraising & Resource Development
- Strategic Planning & Program Evaluation
Accomplishments
- DC Mayor’s Hope Award, 2022
- Surge Institute Innovator of the Year, 2023
- Certified Youth Life Coach
Timeline
Pathways Partnership Fellow
Fair Chance
09.2024 - 07.2025
Founder & CEO
The Village Network
11.2022 - Current
Surge Institute Fellow (Academy & Surge Angels)
Surge Institute
11.2021 - 06.2024
Manager of Program Operations
CityWorks DC
07.2021 - 05.2024
Dean of Student Culture
Breakthrough Collaborative
06.2017 - 08.2018
Middle School Teacher (5th & 6th Grade)
Multiple Charter Schools
08.2015 - 06.2021
Bachelor of Science - Middle School Education
University of Georgia