September 11, 2024

Enterprise Muskingum, an organization committed to equity for all children in Muskingum County, recently appointed Marketta Thomas as its Executive Director.

Marketta is a passionate advocate committed to unlocking the full potential of every child in our community. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of partnership, Marketta is dedicated to breaking down health, education, and employment barriers.

“Growing up in Steubenville, Ohio, I experienced firsthand the challenges that can arise when circumstances are stacked against you,” said Marketta in a written statement. “Unfortunately, the same challenges of poverty, addiction, and joblessness are mirrored across the county and neighboring communities.”

Marketta was fortunate to have mentors help her overcome these obstacles, but she recognizes individual efforts alone cannot reach every child. That’s what drew her to join Enterprise Muskingum.

“The possibility of creating a brighter future for every child, spoke to my heart and the case for social change just made sense – to have a thriving community, everyone has to have a shot at economic mobility,” she said. “Enterprise Muskingum's vision aligned with my belief in the potential of every child. I want to be a part of the positive change for Muskingum County.”

Before joining Enterprise Muskingum, Marketta gained valuable experience in the corporate world, having served as the Corporate Director of Learning and Employee Development at American Electric Power for 29 years. She is enthusiastic to be partnering with local entities to uplift the most vulnerable in Muskingum County.

“Enterprise Muskingum is committed to creating a brighter future for every child and amplifies the needs of children of color and those experiencing generational poverty in Muskingum County,” she said, citing the importance of key stakeholders who will work to tackle the barriers that face children in poverty.

“We will connect those in need with… schools, healthcare providers, social service agencies, and businesses, to tackle the barriers that prevent our children from showing up ‘ready’ for kindergarten, ‘ready’ to succeed in K-12 and ‘ready’ to go to college and enter the workforce.”

Marketta gives a lot of credit to the collaborators who have served to create this cause, including The Muskingum County Community Foundation.

“MCCF has completely exceeded my expectations with its exceptional support,” she said. “From day one, they helped make my transition smooth and enjoyable by welcoming me warmly, serving as valuable thought partners, supporting the EM initiatives, and actively participating in the Enterprise board and leadership table. Additionally, they have provided numerous connections that have been instrumental. I am immensely grateful for their support."

Beyond the corporate world, Marketta is a dedicated community builder who volunteers and mentors. As a co-founder of Justice Vault, an innovative grant-making fund, Marketta has leveraged her expertise to support grassroots initiatives combating racial injustice. She is a graduate of the African American Leadership Academy. She serves as a director on the boards for IMPACT Community Action, Dress for Success Columbus, and the Lincoln Theatre Columbus. She and her husband, Kenneth, have three daughters, one granddaughter, and a furbaby named Cheeto.

Marketta hopes with the efforts of Enterprise Muskingum, they can significantly improve kindergarten readiness through quality preschool, improve third grade reading proficiency, and create more pathways to college, certifications, and degrees.

“If we work together with and not ‘for’ the community, I know we can make it better.”