Marquita Butler

Associate Director
LinkedIn

Marquita is an accomplished youth professional specializing in partnership management with over 15 years of experience across corporate, nonprofit, and educational sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Augsburg University and a Master of Arts in Cultural Educational Policy Studies from Loyola University Chicago. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration, focusing on Organizational Leadership and Development.

Marquita is also a dedicated civic leader, having served two four-year terms as a City Council Member for Brooklyn Center, concluding her service in December 2024. Her commitment to community empowerment drives her to create opportunities for young people to thrive.

In her previous role as Operations Director for the Girls and Youth Department at YWCA Minneapolis, Marquita oversaw eight programs that served over 1,200 youth annually. Additionally, she served as the Executive Director for Girls Inc. National, representing YWCA Minneapolis as a dual affiliate, and ensuring that girls had access to empowering environments that promote being Strong, Smart, and Bold.

In her free time, Marquita enjoys spending quality time with her family, playing games and having movie nights. An avid traveler, she has visited six continents and is eager to explore Antarctica soon.

Three Lessons I Would Share with My Younger Self

  1. Leave Every Place Better Than You Found It 
    One of the best pieces of advice I received from my father is a principle that has guided me throughout my life. Always strive to leave a situation or environment better than you encountered it. This mindset not only facilitates personal growth but also creates a positive impact on those around you.
  2. Embrace the Present Moment 
    Life moves swiftly, and it’s easy to get caught up in future plans. I urge you to stay present and fully enjoy each stage of your life. Savor the experiences you have now, as you may later wish you had invested more time living in the moment rather than just focusing on what comes next.
  3. Pursue Your Goals Relentlessly 
    Remember, you can achieve any goal you set for yourself, but the journey may be challenging. Be prepared to do what is necessary now to enable yourself to enjoy what you truly desire later. Persistence and dedication are vital to reaching your aspirations.