Influential Women

Receiving the Melvin Jones Fellowship plaque from my fellow East Hartford Lions Club members during my presidency was a tremendous honor. In a club with more than 75 years of service and many long-tenured members, the award affirmed that my efforts to grow, diversify, and strengthen the club were making a positive impact across generations.

Hiking is more than just something I love to do in my spare time-it reminds me of who I am. I don't care how long the trail is, how steep the climb gets, or how long it takes me reach the top. I keep going . I stop when I need to, catch my breath, take the view, and then I keep climbing. Because the goal was never to get there first. the goal is to never give up until I get there. Life is much like a trail-there will be uphill battles, unexpected turns, and moments when you wonder how much farther you have to go. But I've learned every step counts. I may take my time. but I will always reach the top. One step. One breath. One climb at a time. Never give up.

In May 2026, I earned my Master's in Business Administration from the University at Buffalo

Author and inspirational speaker Marcia Regina Cook celebrates recognition for Dare to Dream with Eyes Wide Open at the International Impact Book Awards ceremony. Pictured holding her award, Marcia marks a meaningful milestone in sharing her story of resilience, faith, and the courage to pursue a new beginning.