MEET MARIEFrom Little Haiti to Harvard
Marie Ferdinand-Harris is a trailblazer, a true embodiment of resilience and determination. As the first and only Haitian American to grace the WNBA court, she shattered barriers and inspired generations.
Early Dreams in Little Haiti
Marie’s journey began amidst the challenging circumstances of Little Haiti in Miami. With Haitian heritage and a mother who faced limited access to education and couldn’t speak English, Marie dared to dream big. She pursued her education at LSU, earning her bachelor’s degree while carving her path to greatness.
A Basketball Legend
On the court, Marie Ferdinand-Harris left an indelible mark. A Miami native, she led Miami Edison High School to a state basketball championship as a sophomore and earned the title of Florida Prep Player of the Year in 1995. Her time at Louisiana State University (LSU) was equally remarkable, as she became one of just four players in the women’s basketball program’s history to achieve 1,500 points, 500 rebounds, 300 assists, and 200 steals. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she was inducted into the LSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.
Breaking Barriers in the WNBA
Marie’s historic journey continued as she was drafted 8th overall in the 2001 WNBA Draft by the Utah Starzz (now known as the Las Vegas Aces). Her impressive career saw her named a WNBA All-Star in 2002, 2003, and 2005, marking her as a true pioneer.
Beyond the Court
Since retiring from professional basketball in 2011, Marie Ferdinand-Harris has continued to inspire and motivate. She embarked on motivational circuits, authored a book, and developed an ultimate teammate course. Her commitment to making a positive impact on others is epitomized by her role as the Executive Director of the BeLikeCJ Foundation, created in honor of her late son CJ. The foundation’s mission is to inspire children and families nationwide by uniting people of different backgrounds through service and sports programs.A Harvard Success Story
Marie Ferdinand-Harris’s journey from Haiti to Harvard is a testament to her unwavering determination. She pursued further education by attending the Harvard Business School Crossover to Business program, solidifying her status as a genuine success story. Marie Ferdinand-Harris’s life and legacy stand as an enduring source of inspiration. Visit www.belikecj.org to learn more about her remarkable work and the impact she continues to make on countless lives.