Marlon Smith is a bestselling author, international keynote speaker, and legacy wealth consultant with more than 33 years of experience in youth leadership, personal development and financial education. His work has been featured in Essence Magazine and other major media outlets and he has spoken in 45 states and 19 countries, earning recognition as a semifinalist for Oprah’s BIG GIVE. A University of Virginia-trained electrical engineer, Marlon left his Fortune 100 engineering career in 1992 to launch Success By Choice, Inc. and pursue his passion for empowering others.
The “First Sundays” conference is a one-day personal growth and empowerment event taking place on February 21, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, specifically in Carroll Hall (Room 111) in Chapel Hill. Centered on the theme “From Stress to Success: Mastering Money, Time and Health in 2026,” the event focuses on equipping attendees with practical strategies to improve their financial well-being, health, leadership capacity, relationships, and overall sense of purpose. The conference features speakers such as Marlon Smith, Dr. Michael Diamond, Dr. Michael V. Roberts, and Tony Jackson, who will deliver sessions on wealth building, health management, faith-based financial principles, and personal development. The day includes networking, keynote talks, interactive discussions, and panel sessions designed to help participants start 2026 with clarity, confidence, and actionable plans for success.