Conn. College Scholar Accepted to Art Institute of Chicago Graduate Program

Marline Johnson, a graduating member of Connecticut College’s first Posse, is poised to continue her education at the renowned School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Building on her bachelor’s degree in psychology, she will pursue a master’s degree in art therapy.

“I’m focusing first on getting certified as a therapist,” says Marline. “I would love to open my own therapeutic practice or center.”

Marline is passionate about working with young people and providing them with opportunities through art to change the way they envision their lives. Last summer, she interned at the Institute of Therapy through the Arts in Evanston, Illinois, where she observed clinical sessions and witnessed how dance, art, music and drama are employed in therapy. The experience helped solidify her plans to enroll in an art therapy graduate school program.

While serving as a campus leader through UMOJA, the college’s Black Student Union, Marline helped organize a variety of academic and service-oriented events, including a college education panel for students from local high schools. During a semester studying abroad in South Africa, Marline participated in a community service project in Grahamstown where she tutored high school students in English, math and science.

As a result of Marline’s exceptional academic record and community service, she received Connecticut College’s Anna Lord Strauss medal at commencement. This honor is annually bestowed upon one graduating senior who has done outstanding work in service to the community.

Above all, Marline credits Posse with giving her the community she needed to thrive on campus and one that will continue to be there as she advances in her career.

“Posse was there every step of the way during college, and will continue to be there for me when I return to Chicago,” says Marline.