Justin M. Markon, Saint John’s University

Justin Markon, a junior at Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, demonstrates great commitment to giving of himself to provide opportunities to others, particularly young people. He has acted on this commitment working with high school students in the Upward Bound program, younger children through Saint John’s Outdoor University and youth in the slums of Kolkata, India. The right to education for all is a social justice issue that is particularly important to Justin, as he realizes that not every child has the chance to receive the strong educational background that is so central to their future success. As a Political Science major, Justin understands the work of civic engagement as vital and a matter of principle. He says, “While democracy is a messy system, I think it is important that all citizens have a platform to express themselves.” Justin was brought up in a family that values service and wherever his future work takes him, he declares that, “…serving others will always be an important part of my life.” Justin Markon is a servant leader who acts on his commitments and is a credit to his family’s values and to Saint John’s University.