Jean Cidel is the passionate visionary behind Generational Impact Scholars, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping first-generation students access higher education. Through its college and scholarship readiness programs, the organization strives to pave the way for economic mobility for both the students' families and their communities. Born on the island of Haiti in 1976, Jean's parents migrated to the U.S. in search of better opportunities. They worked multiple minimum-wage jobs to make ends meet but lacked college degrees and the knowledge and financial resources necessary to support Jean's goals of becoming the first in his family to pursue higher education. Consequently, Jean's journey to apply for and fund college was fraught with difficulties, setbacks, financial challenges, and mental anguish, especially since he also held a job during high school. These are the additional complexities and challenges that first-generation students often face. After much heartache and pain, Jean was finally accepted to college, giving him a glimmer of hope that he could achieve his dreams. He now holds a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from Florida A & M University and a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of California. For 18 years, he has been a business owner, gaining valuable leadership, management, and financial life skills. Overcoming these challenges taught Jean just how impactful and transformational a college degree can be, especially in our highly competitive, technology-driven 21st century. Reflecting on his journey, Jean realized that the challenges of being a first-generation student alone could have determined whether or not he accessed college. This realization birthed a deeply personal commitment to the cause. Today, he dedicates his life's mission to providing necessary resources for first-generation students facing similar socio-economic challenges. He believes these pressures create significant disadvantages for first-generation students seeking college access. Understanding that a college degree can transform economic mobility and create a lasting ripple effect for future generations, his vision for Generational Impact Scholars is to ensure that every student, regardless of geographic or economic circumstances, has access to these essential opportunities.
