Name: Josh Marriner
Job Title: Director Player Engagement
How long have you been with the Cardinals? Three seasons
Did you attend an HBCU? No
Are you a part of the Divine 9? Yes
Can you share the name of the organization you are in? Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.
In what year did you cross? Hartford, CT (UConn)
What inspired your decision to join your specific organization within the Divine 9? Inspiration and focus on brotherhood, friendship, and service in the community.
In what ways has being a part of this organization positively impacted your life? Being in a fraternity showed me how important it is to be a light in the community and understanding the importances of doing service work together. I have been able to lean of fellow brothers during my transition is sport. I can go to any major city and connect with like minded individuals whom I may have never met because of my fraternity.
Could you share insights about your organization's mission and what you'd like others to know? Our cardinal principles are manhood, scholarship, perseverance and uplift. Through the friendship we gain in the fraternity we know that we can be pillars for the community and uplift them through our service.
Reflecting on the broader impact, what significance does joining a Divine 9 organization hold for both the black community and the global community? Joining a divine 9 organization allows for members or the community to grow together from brotherhood and sisterhood while realizing we all can impact our community. By joining an D9 organization we can collectively gather resources to make a difference.
How would you describe the experience of being part of an organization with a legacy of over a century of black excellence? It is an honor to be apart of something that has lasted and impacted our society of the last century. Black history month stemmed from work that was done by an Omega Man by the name of Carter G Woodson. He emphasized the importance of spreading black achievement to help show who we are as a people.
What advice do you have for individuals who are interested in becoming members of the Divine 9? I would encourage them to choose an organization that aligns with them. Choose the organization for the right reasons and not just to find new friends. Know your core values and what you stand for so that you can be a valuable member of the organization.
How did your experience in your organization play a role in your journey to get you where you are today? My experience as a member of Omega Psi Phi has taught me so many life skills and the importance of mentorship. I learned so many valuable lessons in college that transferred to the professional world. The servants heart that I have for our players was instilled in me through my father and close uncles who were members of Omega Psi Phi.
How do you feel the Cardinals continue to share those same values/experiences? The Cardinals have been big on serving and uplifting our communities through the game of football. The organization is committed to making a difference the lives of the youth and our fans.
