Marion Stepps will be the recipient of the “Gordon Parks Learning Tree Award” at the annual Celebration Tribute Dinner and Photo Auction on October 3rd, 2026 in Fort Scott, Kansas. 

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The Learning Tree Award was established in May of 2023 in Parks’ honor to be given annually at the Celebration Tribute Dinner.

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Named after Gordon’s semi-autobiographical novel and film of the same name, this powerful story tells of a young man growing into manhood in the 1920’s while dealing with racism, poverty, tragic events and love. The story is also of a mother who places love, dignity and hard work over hatred.  She teaches him about life lessons learned and allows Cherokee Flats to be his Learning Tree. Previous recipients include, Inaugural award recipient, former Gordon Parks Museum, Executive Director, Jill Warford, Daryl Roller, retired Director of Development at Fort Scott Community College, Arnold Schofield, retired Public Historian and Robert Nelson, retired educator and longtime civic leader.

 

“The Learning Tree Award” is an award created to recognize an individual that is either emerging in the field of arts with exceptional artistic merit, supporting and promoting of the arts, or championing of the arts by their outstanding dedication, perseverance, commitment to excellence in their community.

 

Marion Stepps began her teaching career in Marvell, Arkansas, where she taught junior high language arts and high school sociology for five years. During her time in Marvell, she married Clyde Stepps. The couple has been married for 54 years and has three sons: Pechone, Travis, and Trenton.

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In 1972, Marion and Clyde Stepps moved to Independence, Kansas. Marion joined the USD 446 school district as a language arts and drama instructor, while Clyde worked as an assistant county supervisor for the Farmers Home Administration. In 1979, the family relocated to Fort Scott, Kansas, following Clyde’s promotion to county supervisor. Marion initially worked part-time in the Uniontown school system before joining Fort Scott High School.

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Stepps made history as the first African American instructor at Fort Scott High School. Her career at the school spanned 27 years, during which she taught and served in several student leadership and extracurricular roles. She retired in 2006 after 38 years in education.

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During her first year at Fort Scott High School, Stepps taught in the classroom while also serving as sponsor of Student Council and PRIDE. She credits colleagues Danny Brown, Joyce Sinn, Lily Kober, and Jim Lentz with providing support during her transition into the school system. Following her first year, she continued as PRIDE sponsor and worked alongside Don Miller.

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Under Stepps’ leadership, PRIDE developed into a prominent student service and leadership organization. Students participated in community service projects that included delivering Meals on Wheels, hosting prom activities at a local nursing home, and developing programs for middle and elementary school students. The organization became recognized for its contributions to the Fort Scott community and beyond.

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Throughout her career, Stepps emphasized education, service, and community involvement. Marion describes her experiences during her early years at Fort Scott High School as “C to the 3rd power” — changes, challenges, and concerns. She has also identified Gordon Parks’ The Learning Tree as speaking to her early experiences at Fort Scott High School and reminding her and all who read and watch that understanding, resilience, and identity can grow in adversity.   

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In addition to her career in education, Stepps has been active in community and faith-based organizations. She is a member of United Missionary Baptist Church, where she has served as a Deaconess and choir member and has held several leadership and administrative positions. She has also served with the Neosho Valley District.

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Following her retirement, Stepps continued her involvement with the Gordon Parks Museum, previously serving on its board and as recording secretary when needed. She currently serves on the Annual Celebration planning committee.

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Stepps remains active in the Fort Scott community and enjoys spending time with family and friends, taking morning walks, decorating for special occasions, and spending time with her grandchildren: Marcus, Tayte, Beighlor, and Trae.

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Her 38-year career in education, and continued community involvement have established Stepps as an important figure in not only Fort Scott’s educational system, but a servant for the betterment of the community.