Marisa Elaine Kelley was raised in Atchison, Kansas. With roots in Georgia, she has found her way back to the south and happily resides in Dalton, GA. Marisa is married to Michael Kelley, Jr. and they have one son Mitchell. She currently works for Walmart Health as a Community Health Worker, where she assists patients with finding outside resources and navigating the sometimes-challenging healthcare system. As a University of Missouri 2008 honors graduate, Marisa earned a Bachelor of Journalism in News-Editorial and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Black Studies. Marisa is the current president of the Dalton-Whitfield branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). She serves as a member of the Carpet City Rotary Club and a board member for Jonathan’s House, an independent living program for young adults who have aged out of foster care. Marisa also volunteers with Level-UP, a youth leadership development program through Dalton Parks and Recreation. Marisa is an avid history lover accompanied with a passion for education. She strives to impart that same love and passion throughout her community whenever the opportunity is given. Marisa’s favorite things are reading historical fiction, trying new restaurants, listening to good music, and spending time with her nieces, Nala, Abrielle, and Carly.