Miss Maryland

Marina Harrison

What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
In January 2005, I participated in the Polar Bear Plunge, helping organizers raise over $600,000 for the Special Olympics of Maryland. The Polar Bear Plunge is an annual event that challenges thousands of people across the nation to dip, plunge, or dive into cold water in the dead of winter. As Miss Maryland USA, alongside the Maryland Governor and other dignitaries and business leaders, I plunged into the Chesapeake Bay's icy cold waters in a two-piece bathing suit, braving a 38-degree air temperature and 33-degree water temperature. It should also be noted that although the big chunks of ice floating in the water caused a 3-inch gash in my knee (that I didn't feel until I regained feeling in my legs an hour later), the plunge was one of the craziest, but also the most exhilarating things I've ever done.

Please list any schools and universities (public/private/graduate/trade or technical) you have or are attending, as well as the area of study, graduation date and any degree or certification you received.
High School: Meade Senior High School; Year Completed: 1999
College: University of Maryland; Area of Study: Communications: Public Relations & Government and Politics (minor); Year Completed: 2003; Degree: Bachelor of Arts.

What charity/charities have you supported with your time and/or resources over past two years?
American Red Cross - Primarily began a partnership with the Red Cross of Central Maryland to fundraise for the Disaster Relief Fund for the victims of Hurricane Isabel. After the Red Cross brought me in to do a television public service announcement, they extended the invitation to continue the partnership. I headlined a benefit concert, appeared at several special events, and participated in their Black History Month events (Dr. Charles Drew Dedication Ceremony). I logged at least 100 hours of service with this organization.
Special Olympics of Maryland - I recently got involved with this organization through their biggest fundraiser of the year, the "Polar Bear Plunge," in which I participated as a VIP and special guest. The organization was able to raise a record $600,000 at this one day event.
Hospice of the Chesapeake - Participated in fundraising efforts (Gala, Silent Auction). Modeled items available for silent auction. Ed Block Courage Award Foundation - The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation promotes the prevention of child abuse by raising awareness of the epidemic and assisting agencies who provide for the care and treatment of abused children in communities throughout the National Football League. The Foundation invited me to their annual Awards in March 2003 to appear as a spokesmodel, special guest, and national anthem soloist.

What would be your "dream job" in life?
TV Personality, Spokesperson for a Public Cause, & Motivational Speaker.

Name one personal accomplishment (in addition to being a State Titleholder) that makes you especially proud.
I am proud of being a military brat and feel as though my travel, exposure, and experiences to different people and cultures have given me a unique perspective on life and my U.S. citizenship. I am also especially proud that I have been able to accomplish every one of my long term goals to this point. Some of these goals include graduating both high school and college with honors, getting a communications job in government, and being recognized on the federal and state levels for my community service involvement. I am proud that I've been able to achieve more than I ever dreamed possible by simply doing little things everyday as a step towards each of my goals.

What are your hobbies and favorite activities?
I enjoy reading fiction and can't read enough self-help, business, and relationship building books.
I love interior design, take pride in how I've decorated my first apartment and hope to be an interior designer in retirement.
I have played golf for the past two years.
I have a great love and appreciation for music "before my time": Old School Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Jazz from the 60-80's. Ray Charles, The Dells, The Temptations, Diana Ross, Patti Labelle, Luther Vandross, Lionel Ritchie.
I LOVE watching football! If I could play, I would be a wide receiver
I enjoy scrapbooking keepsakes and mementos.
I enjoy cooking comfort foods like chicken pie.
I am a collector of fine shoes and purses.
I enjoy playing pool & poker with my friends.
I enjoy spending time with my family during the holidays.