Everyone has heard a story about a character that has suffered from a troubled past and somehow perseveres through it, but not every day do we get the opportunity to be inspired by that character in our own environment.
Gregory D. Marks is a new addition to the Pierce college student body. He has starred in various commercials for companies like Dell, Snoqualmie Casino, and Benjamin Moore. These accomplishments are made even more impressive because of the fact that he used to be a homeless man in Tacoma.
Suffering from a drug addiction and living in a poor environment, Marks sorted out a plan to get help. When meetings weren’t enough for his plan to grow he said he found God’s power of healing. He started going to church and was able to feel his past getting left behind him in order for his new start to begin. “It’s never to late to start over,” said Marks.
Within finding his new identity he found a passion for acting. He didn’t have the money for acting classes so instead he emulated actors via Internet browsing. He started his acting career at age 43 and is now 46. “Ghetto Actor” is what some people call him in Seattle, referring to how he came to be.
Utilizing his skills in facial expressions, he started landing more and more roles in entertainment. These projects include the TV series Grimm, and music videos for Sleepy pilot and Lisa Mitts. He has made a name for himself among actors such as Kim Basinger and Director Nicholas Gyeney. He is also on a list to be a stand-in for Denzel Washington in an up coming film.
Through his success among celebrities, he remains humble and stated; “I am successful because I want more than fame.” Upon receiving his ministerial license, Marks plans to go back to preaching. He stated that he doesn’t want to become a celebrity. “I want a bigger forum for when I preach,” he said.
Marks rebooted his mind and way of thinking. He wants to encourage other people who are struggling. “You make your own destiny and you take control of your whole life,” Marks said regarding his transformation.
He will spend 18 months at Pierce on LNI earning a fashion merchandising degree. “I’m not trying to be better than anyone, I’m just trying to be the best I can be,” said Marks. If you want to become a better person and move past your mistakes, just do it.

Holly Buchanan Staff Writer