Marion Kendall '15
A Trailblazer in Social Work and a Champion for Human Trafficking Survivors.
We are excited to introduce Marion Kendall, an accomplished alumna who graduated from Mercy University in 2015 with a bachelor's degree in social work. Marion's passion for helping others led her to pursue a master's degree in social work from Yeshiva University in 2017.
Throughout her impressive career, Marion has held various significant positions, showcasing her abilities as an effective advocate and leader in the field. She started as the Corporate Director of Social Work for Centers Healthcare, where she made a notable impact on the lives of countless individuals. Marion then served as the Director of Clinical Operations for Help USA, further solidifying her reputation as a compassionate and empathetic leader.
Marion's commitment to making a difference extended even beyond her previous roles. She went on to become the Chief Executive Officer for LifeWay Network, an organization dedicated to providing support and shelter to survivors of human trafficking. Under Marion's guidance, LifeWay Network flourished, offering vital resources and empowering survivors to reclaim their lives and thrive once again.
However, Marion's work did not stop there. She is now the President and CEO of ThriveUS Network, an organization deeply committed to empowering survivors of human trafficking. ThriveUS Network focuses on providing safe housing, education to the general public, and essential resources that enable survivors to regain control over their lives and flourish within their communities. Marion's visionary leadership has positioned ThriveUS Network as a beacon of hope, offering unwavering support to survivors throughout their journey of healing and empowerment.
Marion's dedication and impact extend far beyond her organizational leadership. She has been at the forefront of collaborative efforts to effect change on a legislative level for victims and survivors of human trafficking. Her expertise and impassioned advocacy led her to collaborate with hundreds of anti-trafficking organizations and advocates in 2022, resulting in significant modifications to the bipartisan Violence Against Women (VAWA) reauthorization bill. Marion's recommendations on updating the Department of Justice's "Guidance on Identifying and Preventing Gender Bias in Law Enforcement Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence" have played a crucial role in improving the support and protection offered to survivors.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Marion was named a New Abolitionist in 2021 by the New Abolitionist Movement, a prestigious honor that underscored her commitment and outstanding achievements in the anti-trafficking movement. This recognition solidified her position as a change-maker and leader, inspiring others to join the fight against human trafficking.
Marion's impact is not limited to national platforms; she has also made a significant impact on the global stage. She has delivered powerful speeches and appeared at prominent events, including the United Nations General Assembly, where she addressed the social and legal challenges fueling the trafficking of women and children. Marion's powerful advocacy has also led her before the Senate Judiciary Committee, urging federal policymakers to pass crucial legislation to end sexual abuse and exploitation.
As Marion Kendall is inducted into the Mercy University Alumni Hall of Fame, we celebrate her exceptional achievements and unwavering commitment to creating a world where survivors of human trafficking can heal and thrive. Marion's remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to all, highlighting the profound impact that can be made through education, compassion, and dedicated leadership.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Marion Kendall, a compassionate and empathetic leader in social work, as she is honored within the Mercy University Alumni Hall of Fame.