Black History Month: Marlon Broussard

Legacy in Motion: Marlon Broussard

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the past, celebrate the present and inspire the future.

Aligned with the 2025 national Black History Month theme, "African Americans and Labor," our "Legacy in Motion" campaign explores the profound ways that work – in all its forms – intersects with the collective experiences of the Black community. From skilled and unskilled labor to vocational and voluntary work, Black contributions have shaped organizations, communities, and history.

As part of this campaign, we're honoring the journeys of long-term Black Legacy employees who share stories of perseverance, growth, and impact. Through their journeys, we celebrate Black history in action, recognizing that their work is not just a job but a lasting contribution to our organization.

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Marlon Broussard moved from New Orleans to Portland 15 years ago when he was hired as a supervisor at the Legacy Emanuel Medical Center Apothecary. Not long after joining Legacy, he connected with the Black Employee Resource Group (BERG).

The BERG gave Marlon a sense of community—a place to connect with new employees in a new city and find mentors who helped him progress in his career. Today, Marlon, PharmD, is the manager of the Apothecary. He recently took time from his day to reflect on his career at Legacy, what the BERG has meant to him, and how he views Black History Month.

Can you share your journey at Legacy Health and how your role has evolved over the years?

I joined a team that wasn’t very diverse, so I had to navigate joining a new company and adapting to its culture. It was a learning curve for everyone. Historically, Oregon has had a small Black population and even fewer Black leaders. It was often surprising for employees and patients when they asked for the manager, and I came to the counter. Sometimes, even people of color would express surprise.

I come from New Orleans, where many healthcare professionals, lawyers, and police officers are Black. I call it a “chocolate city.” Moving here was a cultural shift. It took time for me not to be offended when someone was surprised that I was in charge. It reflects the scarcity of African Americans, especially men, in leadership roles in the Pacific Northwest, which is tied to the population size.

How did you become involved with BERG and what do you get from it?

I joined BERG within my first year at Legacy. Community is very important to me, that’s my vibe. I’m very extroverted, and connecting with people is something I value. The BERG has provided me with a foundation of support and reprieve. The relationships I’ve built over the years have created a sense of comfort.

If something went wrong with leadership, a patient, or the organization, the BERG was a comforting place to turn to. The support I’ve received from BERG leaders over the years has been enormous. I’m hopeful that this group will continue to receive resources and attention.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

As an African American, it’s something I live every day. For me, Black History Month is both a celebration and a time to focus on where we’re going. I’m a positive person who focuses on moving forward to ensure that those who came before me can look back from the spirit world and say, “Job well done.”

Of course, we must honor the past, while focusing on the future — building representation for others to see more African American leaders. I hope that other employees who look like me can see me and be inspired to reach for their own goals. I want to be a strong, vocal voice for them. Diversity always wins. It’s not always easy or comfortable, but it always leads to a better place.

How do you think the contributions of Black labor, historically and currently, have shaped industries like healthcare?

Black labor has undeniably had an impact on healthcare. Though Black healthcare workers may sometimes be undervalued, they are crucial in providing care to underserved communities.

Additionally, when clinicians share the same cultural background and experiences as their patients, it leads to better care and more effective communication. Patients often feel more comfortable, and clinicians are better equipped to understand their needs.

I was fortunate to work at the COVID-19 mass vaccination site as one of the chief pharmacists. A number of African American individuals came to me, asking if the vaccine was safe for them. Many of these conversations were about listening to their concerns — such as a family member being mistreated or another person being accused of drug-seeking behavior when seeking care. The level of trust between people who share similar backgrounds is significant.

How has your identity as a Black professional shaped your experiences in the workplace?

For me, I’ve often navigated spaces where I’m the only Black professional. There aren’t many Black Leaders in Portland, so I have a unique perspective on creating a welcoming, inclusive culture. That means a lot of code-switching, where I must present myself in ways that allow me to be taken seriously and recognized as a professional. I haven’t had to do that in more diverse places like New Orleans, which is unfortunate. Being a black man also plays into this, which adds another layer of complexity.

That said, I’m up for the challenge. I have the drive to work through these spaces and ensure I represent myself and other African American professionals in a way that shows we are capable leaders.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in health care or considering joining Legacy?

I would say, cling to BERG as a new employee. Build strong relationships. You’ll find great mentors and get an honest perspective on what’s happening in the organization. That’s not a criticism, but it’s the reality. Make sure you’re seen. Put yourself out there because people are hungry for leaders, especially minority leaders.

We’re lucky to be in a progressive city where people are open to hiring for leadership roles, but you still have to step up. Do your job, aim for supervisor or director positions, and don’t settle. Just because you don’t see someone like you in a leadership role doesn’t mean it can’t be you in the future.

I don’t think I’d be where I am today, in terms of growth and confidence, if I hadn’t had those conversations with BERG members. It provided a space for me to ask questions and learn. Take courses that help you grow. All those things will make you a better leader. No one will hand you success — you must apply yourself and find the motivation within.

Are there any projects or moments you’re especially proud of during your time here?

Being the chief pharmacist at the mass vaccination site at the convention center was an incredible opportunity. The vice president of pharmacy entrusted me with that role, and I represented Legacy in a leadership capacity. Because of how I look — being a bald, African American guy — it was amazing how many people recognized me, even when I was wearing a mask. People would stop me in places like Safeway or the mall and recognize me.

I’m proud of my leaders for giving me opportunities for growth, and I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built over the years. There’s a strong network of support from both African American and non-African American leaders. I hope I’m a source of support for them as well.