marlena’s Community connections
Throughout the years, Marlena has been involved with the community in various ways. As a social worker, she has worked at Mayflower Mill Elementary School for 12 years. There, she has worked with amazing staff who are dedicated to meeting the needs of all children. The trauma-informed and child-first focus has helped many children find love, attention, and acceptance, all while developing skills over the years. Marlena has actively contributed to the community in several ways. As a social worker, she has spent 12 years at Mayflower Mill Elementary School, collaborating with an amazing staff dedicated to meeting the needs of all children. Their child-centered approach has helped many children experience love, attention, and acceptance while developing vital skills such as self-regulation and problem-solving.
Marlena served as a referee, President, and Skater Relations Chair for Lafayette Roller Derby. Through her leadership roles, she enhanced her communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills while addressing important topics like interpersonal conflict, team bonding, trans athletes, and racism. During her time with the roller derby community, Marlena learned to embrace both herself and others for their unique qualities and see the value in what every member brings to the team.
Photo credit: Dave Weigle Photography
Big Ideas, Real Impact - LUM Camp
Marlena has been involved with Lafayette Urban Ministry (LUM) since the 1990s. She attended LUM Camp as a camper for three years, creating lasting memories and hoping to return as a camp counselor one day. In 2005, she began volunteering as a camp counselor and continued in that role until 2017, when a significant dream came true—she accepted the position of LUM Camp Director. Summer 2026 will mark Marlena’s 25th LUM Camp!
Through LUM Camp, Marlena has provided youth with a safe space to embrace their childhood. Children can temporarily set aside the stressors of life as they create their own treasured memories, make new friends, and are encouraged to pursue their goals and dreams. Marlena is dedicated to ensuring that all children have the resources they need to succeed. To achieve this, she recognizes that significant policy changes are necessary, and she is ready to take on this important challenge. LUM Camp is one of Marlena’s proudest accomplishments.
Mural painted by Marlena and her students at Mayflower Mill Elementary School. Click the image for the original post on Facebook.
Design: Art by Jenny K
Marlena’s journey through education
Does Marlena look familiar? Like many low-income families, Marlena’s family moved often, meaning she attended several schools in Tippecanoe County. Perhaps you met her along the way.
1993 Kindergarten - Cumberland Elementary
1994 1st - Vinton Elementary
1995 2nd - Durgan Elementary
1996-1998 3rd - 5th - Miami Elementary
1999-2000 6th - 7th - Tecumseh Middle
2001 8th - Battle Ground Middle
2002-2006 9th - 12th - Harrison High School
2006-2010 University of Indianapolis
2010-2011 IU School of Social Work
2012-2026 Mayflower Mill Elementary

