Leader Interview: Meet Marley, Delegation Leader for CISV Greater Springfield/Massachusetts
This summer, CISV Greater Springfield/Massachusetts is thrilled to introduce Marley, who will be leading our delegation to Japan. With a rich background in travel, youth leadership, and cultural education, Marley brings enthusiasm, experience, and heartfelt dedication to the Village Program. We sat down with her to learn more about her journey and what she’s most excited to bring to CISV.
Q: How did you first hear about CISV, and what inspired you to get involved?
A: I heard about CISV Massachusetts through Donna, the chapter president, who is also a family friend. When CISV was looking for a leader, she introduced me to the organization. I’ve been fortunate to travel and participate in leadership programs throughout my life, so CISV’s mission immediately resonated with me. I benefited greatly from early exposure to other cultures and perspectives, and I’m excited to help the kids experience that same kind of impactful growth.
Q: Have you worked in similar environments before?
A: Yes! I’ve coached swim and rock‑climbing teams, worked as a teaching assistant, and been a camp counselor. Those experiences taught me how to lead and support children. Still, I know CISV will be uniquely meaningful. The Village program is intentionally designed to create once‑in‑a‑lifetime experiences that deeply affect everyone involved—leaders, staff, JCs, and participants.
Q: What part of leading the Village are you most looking forward to?
A: Watching the kids grow. There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing a child’s moment of realization—whether it’s swimming without a floatie or reaching the top of a climbing wall. But I anticipate that seeing these kids become inspired to be active, peaceful members of the world will have an even greater impact, both for them and for me. I’m there to support their experience, but I know I’ll learn so much as well.
Q: What would you like parents to know to feel confident their children are safe?
A: I want parents to know I’m dedicated to caring for their children. I hold multiple first aid and safety certifications, and CISV provides rigorous, well‑developed training. With 75 years of experience running programs, CISV gives leaders every tool needed to create a safe, successful Village.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself!
A: Hi, I’m Marley! I grew up in Massachusetts before moving to London to complete my degree in Education, Culture and Society. After graduating in 2024, I stayed and worked in London for two more years. Now I’m transitioning back to the U.S., which includes a 2.5‑month European travel adventure.
Travel has been such a meaningful part of my life thanks to my parents, who always emphasized experiences over possessions. In high school, I traveled to Nepal for five weeks and spent two months in Chilé through youth programs. Although those trips were nerve‑racking at first, they taught me more about myself than anything else. They sparked my love for global learning and directly influenced many major life decisions—like studying abroad and focusing my degree on culture and education.
I have so many fond memories thanks to those experiences, and I’m excited for our CISV delegation to create their own.