News Article

Seven HOPE Scholarships Awarded to Honor Student Leader

Jun 26, 2009

Edison State College today awarded seven HOPE Scholarships to the son, five siblings, and mentee of Guichard “Gucci” Jean- Louis.

“As we work through these tragic times, I remember all that Gucci stood for and know that his spirit will live on through his legacy,” said Ildet Jean-Louis, Gucci’s father.  “Through these scholarships Gucci will ensure his brother, sisters and son can fulfill Gucci’s dream of a college education.”

Gucci was the Freshman class president of the HOPE Scholars Club (Help One Person Excel) and was recently elected as the student body president.  He and his mother, Malouse Jean-Louis were tragically killed in a car accident last month, leaving the family’s father as the sole provider for Gucci’s 5 younger siblings and 2 year old son.

“Gucci was such a positive influence in the lives of our students, his family and community,” said Dr. Kenneth P. Walker, President of Edison State College.  “He embodies the mission of the HOPE Scholars Program.  We want these eight young students to know when it is their time to go to college, Edison State will be here to welcome them.”

Dr. Walker designed the HOPE Scholarship Program in 1993 to award full tuition and book scholarships to first generation in college students and provide a campus support system to bolster their success. Since 1993, Edison State College’s Project HOPE (Help One Person Excel) has contributed to student success in Southwest Florida by providing graduation incentives to students who are at risk for not continuing their education due to financial or family reasons.  Today’s scholarships were made possible through a generous donation provided by Cleveland and Ruth Campbell of Fort Myers.

Each child received a full scholarship to Edison State College.  As a keepsake each child received an engraved bracelet, personalized with their name and the word ‘HOPE’ to remind them of Gucci’s legacy and the promise of a college education. 

Last Updated: June 26, 2009