“Poetry is much more than my profession, it is my passion,” says Jean Marie. “I believe all talents and gifts are God given and are meant to be shared.  My goal is to create more love in the world through words. Every commission that I receive is an exciting challenge.  I have enjoyed some very diverse assignments, and my greatest reward is when the recipient cries happy tears.”

She has won several awards in contests sponsored by the Texas State Poetry Society, and is a member of the Academy of American Poets.

Jean Marie’s work has honored numerous corporate presidents, a French Consul General of Texas, an American Ambassador, two movie stars, professional athletes and hundreds of lesser known, but equally important individuals.  

         Childhelp, a national organization that combats child abuse and neglect, commissioned Welch in 2001 to write the official prayer for the National Day of Hope.  The verse is read on Capitol Hill in April of every year. “I consider that prayer to be my most significant career accomplishment,” says Jean Marie.