STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

As a busy mom constantly burning the candle from both ends, I was not able to drive Ani to campuses, help complete forms, research on my own, etc. When my baby boarded the Jumpstart Tour bus, her educational future opened.

I am very grateful for the wonderful experience Ani has had with the Gaddis Foundation from the initial information session about the Jumpstart Program, to the mini sessions prior to the college tour and all the support/resources in between. The mini sessions reinforced communication, confidence and team building. The staff were gentle but firm in their direction teaching the youth to respect one another, listen, and instilled pride in them. Not only did the Gaddis Foundation inspire Ani to be proud of her culture, but she also was encouraged to hold steadfast to her beliefs in higher education. This gave her focus and determination to succeed; Ani seemed to feel empowered.

The chaperones mentored Ani while also providing enrichment activities Ani still talks about today; in short, the Jumpstart Program set my daughter on a path and changed her life! I’ll never forget the text I got when Ani was visiting Hampton University “Mommy, I think I found my home!” A few minutes later, one of the chaperones texted me saying she too thought Ani had found her home by the sea-Hampton.

I dropped Ani off at Hampton University this weekend. She is nervous of course but also humble and excited.

The campus is absolutely beautiful. Gorgeous! I understand now why Ani chose Hampton. The staff, student leaders were so kind, welcoming and supportive they put me at ease very quickly. Ani didn’t give all the other competing colleges much thought, Hampton called her all the way up here in Ohio.

In closing, I thank you and the Gaddis Foundation for providing Ani with an experience I never could have. Being able to spend time at so many colleges truly gave Ani guidance beyond anything I imagined. The program honestly did jumpstart my daughter’s educational future and ignite a fire in Ani still burning to this day.

It truly does take a village!