Forty Under 40: Carly Marshall

In college, Carly Marshall had her mind set on being a television reporter. But between graduation and her first job, her focus switched.

“I also always wanted to go to law school,” she recalled. “So, I decided to go.”

The Fort Smith native graduated from the University of Missouri in 2009 with a double major in broadcast journalism and political science. After graduating from law school at the University of Arkansas in 2012, she landed a job in Benton County as a deputy prosecutor.

Six years later, after she and her husband relocated their growing family back to their hometown, she accepted a job offer to work in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Arkansas. She helps prosecute numerous crimes but heads up the Western District’s child exploitation unit, working with multiple law enforcement agencies and local organizations to successfully bring those criminals to justice.

“I like being a voice for victims,” she said. “Knowing your work helps keeps kids safe makes it worthwhile.”

Marshall takes satisfaction in knowing her work helps keep communities safer. Her volunteer efforts also reflect a community-minded leader. She’s active in several organizations, including the nonprofit Degen Foundation, which provides healthcare funds in the Fort Smith metro, and P.E.O. International. The philanthropic organization helps women achieve their educational aspirations.

Marshall helps lead community outreach for the planned Fort Kids Children’s Museum and is just finishing a term as the Sebastian County Bar Association president.

Marshall said she would consider serving the community as an elected official in the coming years.

“I don’t know yet what that will be, but I’ve always thought running for office would be in my future,” she said.