Marian A. Willard spent 48 years as an educator, including 43 years dedicated to the Dallas Independent School District. She began her career as a teacher in Ysleta Independent School District in El Paso, Texas, then later moved to Dallas and continued her career as a Physical Education teacher and coach. She began her college career at Tyler Junior College and continued her studies at East Texas A&M University (formerly East Texas State University) where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree. She later earned a Master of Science Degree in Physical Education, Health, and Dance. Marian retired as principal of the Great James Madison High School. Marian is a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.