POCAHONTAS, Ark.—Marilyn Hogan, the founder of a longstanding arts education program in Randolph County, has been honored with the Gr8 Acts of Kindness award for August. The recognition highlights Hogan’s 30-year commitment to providing creative opportunities for local youth through the Marr Street School of Performing Arts in Pocahontas.
The school offers a wide range of classes, including ballet, clogging, jazz, theatre, piano, violin, guitar, drums, and Taekwondo. Hogan’s journey with the school began when she took up clogging in the same building where the program now operates. After the original instructor left, Hogan, who has a background in dance and music, began teaching herself and others.
“I started clogging actually right here in this building. Then we lost our teacher,” Hogan said.
Over time, she expanded the program, even incorporating Taekwondo classes inspired by her two sons’ interest in martial arts. “So I started taking it, and then five brown and black belts later, I’m still doing it,” Hogan said, reflecting on her journey in the discipline.
Hogan worked as a speech pathologist during the day and ran the arts school at night, choosing not to take a salary to ensure all funds went back into the program. As enrollment grew, the school required additional space, which her husband, Wendell Hogan, renovated. The program eventually found its permanent home in the former Downtown Playhouse near the Pocahontas town square.
Hogan believes the school provided more than just arts education for some students. “I really know in my heart that I have kept some of them out of trouble that might have gone a different route,” she remarked.
The program’s impact is reflected in the stories of its students and their families. Madison Stanhope, who travels with her family from rural northern Arkansas to attend classes, highlighted how her siblings have embraced music at the school. “Almost all my siblings play instruments, even the three-year-old,” she said.
The Houseal family joined the school as a group. Lily Houseal said it was initially a family decision, but they quickly embraced the program and the instruction provided by Hogan. “She will push you to do what she knows you’re capable of, even when you don’t think you can,” she shared.
For others, the Marr Street School has fostered both personal growth and a sense of belonging. David Hobby, a student with no prior musical training, said, “When I came here, it opened up a completely new world. Then on top of the music, there’s also community. It’s come to be my friends, and very close friends at that.”
Hogan recalled a former student telling her how much the program meant to them. “One student told me one time this has always stood out, that it gives me a place to belong. Every time I say it, it makes me cry,” she said.
The community recently gathered to surprise Hogan and recognize her dedication. Parents, students, and town leaders offered their gratitude, including Allen Williams, Community President of First Community Bank. Hogan was moved by the outpouring of support. “That’s my reward, to see these students and these children, and then you know sometimes, they don’t always know that this is going on, to see them here and that support. Yes, it means a lot,” she said.