Marcus J. Hopkins Nomination Letter

Fellow Alumni:

I am writing this letter in support of Michelle Owens’ nomination to the 2019 class of the Cadets Hall of Fame.

I first met Michelle in 2003, when she joined The Cadets color guard staff as a technician. It was my age out year, and from the beginning of the season, everyone involved knew that the 2003 guard was something special. Michelle spent most of the summer tech-ing the flag line, of which I was a third-year veteran, meaning that I spent most of my summer being educated by Michelle. Her constant positivity in the face of a season that saw 56 days of rain, no free days, and, at the time, a complicated flag book that was standard setting served to keep a rain-soddened, work-weary, and oftentimes delirious flag line from falling to pieces.

From Michelle, I learned more than just how to break down counts; I learned how to smile through the pain of my osteoarthritis; I learned how to take inspiration from someone who gave her all, regardless of the circumstances; I learned how to hold myself to higher standards of behavior and excellence.

After I aged out of The Cadets, Michelle continued to educate and inspire an entire generation of performers for the better part of a decade. Her contribution to our organization and our collective family and history has more than earned her a place amongst those we’ve honored. I am certain that I speak for everyone whose lives she touched within The Cadets organization that her nomination is not only deserved, but a fitting tribute to a wonderful friend, educator, and hopeful member of the 2019 class of The Cadets Hall of Fame.

Sincerely,

Marcus J. Hopkins

The Cadets Guard Member

2001-2003