Marquise Janea Scott invests in her creative future

For Chicago high school senior Marquise Janea Scott, a simple opportunity to model for a hair care line became a turning point. “I feel like I came alive in front of the camera, and behind it—editing, selecting angles, and visuals,” she recalls. That moment sparked a passion not only for modeling, but also for acting and photography.

Marquise’s high school offers few programs in the visual or performing arts, and with limited resources at home, pursuing additional training has been a challenge. Still, her enthusiasm hasn’t gone unnoticed. Professional photographers, models, and actors she’s met have encouraged her to expand her portfolio and invest in formal classes to strengthen her skills.

With support from the Hunter Watson Memorial Fund grant, Marquise will now be able to do just that. She plans to enroll in acting, modeling, and photography courses that will help her grow her talents, open doors to future opportunities, and pursue her dream of a career in the creative arts.