PERSONAL BACKGROUND
Marva Dudley was raised and currently resides in Fresh Meadows. She is the single mother to one daughter who currently attends and plays basketball for Queensborough Community College.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
After spending 26 years as a Legal Assistant, Dudley decided to found Girls NYC Basketball, a non-profit organization that provides free college exposure showcases for talented young women who play basketball.
GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT
Dudley’s greatest achievement thus far was the successful execution of the organization’s first college-exposure event. The showcase was held on May 30, 2015 and allowed unsigned high school junior and senior girls to put their basketball skills on display. “As a result of that showcase, six high school seniors were signed to colleges,” proclaimed Dudley.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE
Dudley’s biggest challenge has been the ability to achieve the organization’s mission to provide all events and services at no cost to the student-athlete or her family. Dudley fights to meet this goal and organizes Girls NYC Basketball’s events by acquiring sponsors and raising funds to host showcases of the highest caliber.
MOTIVATION TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMUNITY
Dudley cites her upbringing as her biggest motivation to contribute to her community, stating that she was always taught the importance of giving back. “One moment in my life that motivated me was after I had graduated from high school and I was preparing to begin my freshman year at North Carolina Central University,” said Dudley. “I will never forget how the community was there for me.” Dudley fondly remembers the outpouring of support she was given, being offered encouraging words and sent thoughtful care packages. “I will never forget that and it is because of this it is, and always will be, my passion to give back.”
To learn more about Dudley’s organization or to sign up for its services as a student-athlete, visit girlsnycbasketball.com.
BY SUZANNE MONTEVERDI
