Marcus Kirkman (he/him) was born and raised in Sanford, NC where he learned the importance of community and family as a cornerstone in his life. Married with two beautiful children and two grandchildren, Marcus serves as the economic and development business inclusion manager for the City of Asheville. Previously, he served as the equity and inclusion training consultant for the City of Asheville. He retired as a senior chief petty officer of the United States Navy after 22 years of honorable service. Marcus is also an ordained InterFaith/InterSpiritual Minister, InterSpiritual Counselor and Companion, health and wellness coach, Ayurveda wellness counselor, and certified mindfulness facilitator and teacher. One of his favorite quotes is from Pirkei Avot: “Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world's grief. Do justly, now. Love mercy, now. Walk humbly, now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it.” A fun fact about Marcus is that he has performed the National Anthem at NBA games and a minor league baseball game.