Volunteer Spotlight: Marisa Solomon
Each season brings new memories. Teams push through challenges, grow stronger, and discover what they are capable of, all while dedicated volunteers stand front row to witness it happen. These are the same volunteers who give their time and talents to ensure students have spaces to learn, compete, and grow. With more than ten seasons of dedication, Marisa Solomon has been a constant presence in the FIRST in Texas community, especially within FIRST LEGO League, making moments like these possible!
Marisa has worn just about every hat imaginable. From coach and mentor to referee, judge, head referee, judge advisor, and tournament director, her commitment has reached every corner of the program. Her journey has even taken her to the world stage, serving as Head Robot Game Queuer at World Festival. Beyond FIRST LEGO League, Marisa has also supported FTC and FRC programs, always stepping in wherever help was needed. During one of the most challenging periods in recent history, including the fully online COVID season, she served three seasons as the North Texas FIRST LEGO League Program Delivery Partner. Today, she continues to give back as a Key Volunteer for North Texas and as a member of the FLL FIRST in Texas Advisory Council.
Marisa’s FIRST journey began in the classroom. While teaching seventh grade math, she was assigned FIRST LEGO League robotics with no prior background in robotics. Determined to give her students the best opportunity possible, she attended a local summer training. That single experience sparked a passion that has never faded. Additional trainings with local volunteers followed, and from there, volunteering became a lasting part of her life.
Some of Marisa’s most meaningful moments have been shared with family. Watching her children grow from team members to volunteers and eventually into coaches has been incredibly special. Seeing them discover the joy of teaching and serving others through FIRST is something she will always cherish.
What makes volunteering most rewarding for Marisa is seeing students transform into confident, curious learners and knowing that FIRST LEGO League played a role in that growth. It is especially meaningful to help bring FIRST programs to rural communities, where access to STEM opportunities can be limited and the impact can be life changing. Volunteering has also shaped her personally through the people she has met along the way. The FIRST community is filled with generous and compassionate individuals who give their time, energy, and expertise to inspire students. Being part of such a supportive and mission driven culture is something she takes great pride in.
After more than a decade of service, Marisa’s impact continues to ripple through students, families, and communities across Texas. This is what FIRST in Texas volunteering looks like at its best!