We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mr Marc J. Hawk III. Check out our conversation below.
Marc J., so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. Have you stood up for someone when it cost you something?
This is a very profound question, and the answer is yes. I’ve stood up for others, but more often than not, it’s standing up for myself that has truly cost me. Giving things up for someone else somehow became easier than defending my own boundaries. But I’ve learned that the consequences of not standing up for myself can be just as overwhelming.
There was a time when I’d get weary from constantly being the one to push back or speak up. Sometimes I have to slow down and regroup. But now I understand that as a leader, I have a responsibility to stand not just for what’s right but also for what’s right for me. That isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary.
People often associate “cost” with a negative connotation, but I believe if it doesn’t cost you something, it’s probably not good. Good things will cost you something and I’ve come to see that as a sign I’m on the right path.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a 24-year-old public servant with big dreams and a bigger purpose. I’m currently a law student and a Master of Public Administration candidate, but titles aside, what I do is much deeper than a résumé line. I serve—through advocacy, through storytelling, and through showing up for communities.
Right now, I’m working on expanding God’s ministry He entrusted to me, Pride to Purpose. At the end of August, I’ve organized a visit with incarcerated persons through a justice organization and invited family, friends, and social media followers to engage in this special, informative session centered on meaningful conversation and reflection.
I’m entering into my second year of law school, and I am very excited about that because a lot of leadership opportunities have presented themselves, and I’ve entangled myself into most. I am holding two national roles, and I am excited to see the changes that come from that.
To me, “what I do” is more important than “what I’ve done.” I’m building a brand rooted in faith, justice, and purpose. Whether it’s leading national student organizations, supporting systemic change through policy, or using my story to inspire others, I’m focused on creating spaces where truth, growth, and impact collide.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
This question is pride bait, LOL, but I’ll use it as an opportunity to show how quickly humility can come in.
I graduated from Oakwood University in 2022 at just 20 years old. At the time, I didn’t know where I was going after graduation. I had been applying to jobs all over the political space because I knew I wanted to take at least one gap year before law school. I applied to a national political organization and, just two days before graduation, got a call for an interview. I walked the stage, and maybe four days later, I got the call that I was hired.
They immediately flew me out to another state for a major convening. I was suddenly in rooms with members of Congress, social justice advocates, and powerful changemakers. The role made me feel unstoppable. I finally felt like I made it, and I was the youngest person in that space.
But it didn’t take long for me to realize what I actually had. What I thought was power was really a platform to learn. That experience taught me how important it is to reflect constantly on what power is doing to you—not just what you can do with it. Sometimes, power can make you mean. You have to stay grounded.
That season humbled me quickly, but it also gave me access to mentors I still lean on today. That was one of my earliest memories of feeling powerful and one of my first lessons in how to steward it well.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me how low life can really get. But these days, I’ve learned how to count my suffering—and even my pain—as joy. Trials may come, but all they’re really doing is making me stronger. I’ve learned how to endure, to trust in Someone greater than myself, and to hold on right there.
Suffering taught me not to depend on the world, people, or even a career to measure my worth or make me feel significant. Whether I’m suffering or succeeding, I’ve learned that my purpose is still the same: to lead, to mentor, and to give back. That’s the lesson suffering gave me, one success never could.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
The 12th President of Oakwood University, Dr. Gina Spivey-Brown, was the first person who came to mind. I met her once in the airport, and my God—she was so humble. She praised and thanked God every chance she got. I’ve seen her a few other times during Alumni Weekend and beyond, and she continued to carry that same spirit.
It’s like God is placing His leaders exactly where they need to be for such a time as this. She is arguably one of the most educated and esteemed presidents Oakwood has ever had—and the first woman to hold the role. She stands in power and radiates it—but what makes her stand out most is her humility.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I think what most people don’t understand is that everything this life has to offer—material things, name recognition, money, excess—is ultimately vanity. None of it truly matters in the end. What does matter is the love we show, the way we live out our faith, how we pour into others, and how we lead and disciple people with care and intention. That’s the legacy that lasts.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/beingmarcjay
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingmarcjay/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-j-hawkiii/
Image Credits
Image Credits
Image 1: Oakwood University Business Department
Image 2: Marc J. Hawk III
Image 3: Marc J. Hawk III
Image 4: Marc J. Hawk III
Image 5: U.S. House of Representatives
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
