Meet Deselyn Marshall, the latest winner of the Anne Cox Chambers Award
Deselyn Marshall’s deep-rooted sense of community began at a young age. Her mother was the family’s primary breadwinner after her father was diagnosed with lupus and couldn’t work; Deselyn witnessed firsthand the value of hard work and selflessness.
COMMITTED TO GIVING BACK
For Deselyn, a customer care supervisor for Cox Communications in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, volunteering isn’t just about giving time. It’s about advocating for those who aren’t always heard, particularly children in the foster care system.
“The children are our future, and they need a voice to stand up for them to help make a difference in their lives,” she said.
TRAGEDY BECOMES PURPOSE
Deselyn’s advocacy work is deeply personal. Her eldest son, Antonio, was placed in youth detention during a challenging period early in his life. Visiting him weekly, Deselyn noticed many of the young people in the system lacked family support.
“Even though people make bad decisions, they’re still human,” Deselyn said. “I was able to visit with another young man each time we visited with Antonio because his mom did not visit. This young man was so appreciative of the visits and that we treated him like family.”
Tragically, Antonio lost his life to gun violence in 2007. This devastating loss, coupled with what she saw during visits to the youth detention center, fueled Deselyn’s resolve to guide other young people away from the pitfalls that claimed Antonio’s life.
For three years, Deselyn has worked with Capital Area Court Appointed Special Advocates, where she has helped more than 3,900 local children in the legal system by representing their best interests and ensuring they are placed in safe, permanent homes. She volunteers with the Boys & Girls Clubs’ Virtual Read Aloud program, and with the Foundation for East Baton Rouge School System. Additionally, Deselyn has been a member of Cox Charities — a Cox Communications employee giving program that supports local organizations in the field — since joining the company in 2013.
Tracy White, public affairs manager for Cox Communications, has worked with Deselyn since 2017 and marvels at how intentional she is about showing up for customers and the community.
“She transformed her tragedy into action,” Tracy said. “Her resilience and determination to turn a setback into a stepping stone for others is truly inspiring.”
In addition to working with at-risk youth, Deselyn’s personal journey as a breast cancer survivor has further enriched her message to those she serves. “I let them know that I kicked cancer’s butt and that you can overcome anything that comes your way.”
MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE
Deselyn said receiving the Anne Cox Chambers Award was humbling because she never expected to be recognized for deeds that come from her heart.
Deselyn’s advice to her colleagues is simple: Get involved. “Volunteering not only helps those in need, but it also promotes personal growth, brings people together, makes you feel happier and healthier, and helps make the world a better place.”
ABOUT THE AWARD
The Anne Cox Chambers Award recognizes employees who are making a positive impact through volunteerism and community service, which aligns with our social impact goal to empower 34 million people by 2034. Anne Cox Chambers was the late daughter of our company’s founder, James M. Cox, and grandmother of our Chairman and CEO Alex Taylor. Much of her life was devoted to community leadership and philanthropy. The winner receives a $10,000 grant for the nonprofit organization of his or her choice from the James M. Cox Foundation.
Do you know a colleague who exemplifies the spirit of the Anne Cox Chambers Award? Nominate them at CoxImpact.com/ACCaward.
(Left) Deselyn volunteers at Academic Honors Day, where local honor roll students are recognized. Cox Communications sponsors the event and donates computers. (Below) Deselyn and Cox Communications volunteers clean up Sweet Olive Cemetery in Baton Rouge.