our TEAM

Marquita Whisonant
Associate Director, Frontline Support and CVI Integration

Marquita Whisonant serves as the associate director of frontline support and CVI Integration at the HAVI. Marquita is essential in overseeing the implementation of the HAVI’s Violence Prevention Professional (VPP) Training and Certification Program, supporting HAVI’s Empowering the Front Line (EFL) member working group, and the HAVI’s Training Faculty. With a background as an educator and former firefighter/paramedic, Marquita brings a unique perspective and wealth of knowledge through her years on the frontlines of emergency medical care and response. Prior to joining the HAVI, Marquita served as an Assistant Director with the Virginia Commonwealth University Center for Trauma and Critical Care Education (CTCCE), supporting initial and ongoing education courses for professional development. Additionally, while at VCU, Marquita played an integral role in securing grant funding to enhance diversity in the prehospital field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and acted as a liaison with the Injury and Violence Prevention Program (IVPP). This collaboration was critical to integrate violence intervention training and increase trauma-informed care for the EMS professional, helping to provide more positive outcomes for individuals and communities. Marquita is committed to empowering those on the frontlines through education. She is passionate about the mental health and overall well-being of first responders. Marquita holds a BS in Biology and a MS in Nutrition and Integrative Health. Currently, Marquita is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Teaching and Learning with an emphasis on Adult Learning, furthering her dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth.