Marijuana Pepsi Vandyck’s name is a conversation starter, to say the least. It’s a name that turns heads and raises eyebrows, a legacy bestowed upon her by a mother who believed it would propel her to fame. While the name did generate attention, it also came with a constant stream of questions and judgments. Her parents, products of the post-Woodstock era when cannabis was gaining popularity, were seen as unconventional, even by their own family.
Despite the challenges, Marijuana Pepsi has never shied away from her name. In fact, she’s proud of it. She initially embraced the name without a second thought, seeing it as simply beautiful. However, as she grew older and moved to a new city, she became acutely aware of how her name set her apart. People often inquired about her nickname, and she learned to navigate the discomfort some felt in calling her by her full name.
Marijuana’s unique name has become a catalyst for her to address broader societal issues. She holds a Ph.D. in higher education leadership, with a dissertation focused on the impact of distinctly Black names on the educational experiences of Black students. Her research unveiled a disturbing pattern of disrespect, stereotypes, and lowered academic expectations faced by students with unique names. She found that her own name elicited the strongest reactions from white teachers.
Beyond academia, Marijuana Pepsi actively champions positive educational experiences for Black students. She works at the Community College of Baltimore County, using her platform to challenge societal norms around identity and expectations. She is also the founder and executive director of Action As Empowerment Consulting & Solutions, LLC, a testament to her commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
While her name may spark assumptions about her lifestyle, Marijuana Pepsi does not consume marijuana and has never touched a Pepsi. She gracefully deflects offers from cannabis companies, choosing to focus on educational initiatives. She has proven that even a name that seems outlandish or unconventional can be a powerful tool for promoting positive change and challenging societal expectations.
