Marla Leonce - Jones High School

Marla relates to King’s legacy of justice and respect by focusing on providing safety for women in domestic violence situations. She has volunteered in an intergenerational program with young people who assist the elderly with local police.

She is a standout in IB and a member of the K Pop Club, National Honor Society, as well as president of book club. A self-named bibliophile, she is inquisitive and enjoys different genres and literary styles. Curious about the world’s events and social justice, Marla is constantly pushing herself to learn more. In the wider community she volunteers with the Positive Direction program of the Orlando Police Department.

Her favorite MLK quote references Dante: ‘The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in a period of moral crisis, maintain their neutrality.” Marla views it as a call to action for the silent majority.

Future Goals: Marla aspires to attend Barnard College, Boston University or University of Chicago and become a media psychologist because of the impact media can have on children.