From students
“I joined IMANI my junior year in High School. At the time, I had only been in the US for a year. They helped me prepare for the SAT and walked me through my college application process. I also participated in the study groups. In 2014, I graduated from Temple University with a degree in Architecture and I am currently the co-founder of a web development company. If IMANI did not exist, I would probably not have gone to college.”
– Noel, Temple University, Class of 2014
“The IMANI programs are important because they bridge the achievement gap for underprivileged students. I’ve been a part of the program since 8th grade. Not only did I receive educational and financial support but I was also given an unconditional amount of encouragement. Whenever I needed a question answered or assistance with the college admissions process, the IMANI volunteers and staff were so kind and eager to help. I can’t express my gratitude to you enough.”
– Tara, Howard University, Class of 2020
“IMANI has been beneficial to me through my high school and undergraduate education. Ms. JoAnn McCullough, along with the numerous volunteers and employees, work together to keep students motivated and on the right path. From tutoring programs and prep for the SAT to a truly unique free college advocacy center, the services that IMANI offers are one of a kind. Today, as a business student at Rutgers University, I can truly say that I would not be here without the help of IMANI. I would recommend the IMANI Program to any student!”
– Tyler, Rutgers University, Class of 2018
“Growing up in a lower class family, there was little my parents could do to assist me with my educational goals, given their work obligations and efforts to provide my siblings and me with food and shelter. Therefore, I had to look to other sources to help me with my goals. IMANI’s College Advocacy Center played a pivotal role in that endeavor. The SAT prep classes and essay editing program gave me the edge I needed to gain acceptance into my dream university.”
– Dominique, Howard University, Class of 2009
St. John’s University School of Law, Class of 2012
From parents
“My high schooler was very reluctant to participate in the study group. This year, I gently coaxed him into trying it. Being with other motivated kids helped him realize that there are other students who are working hard. They are all good role models. We are grateful to IMANI for helping to give some discipline and structure to his academic life.”
– Parent of IMANI Study Group participant
“In a town where almost every element of your child’s educational success is nuanced and multi-layered, IMANI is vital. Invaluable guidance and support–including reading programs, tutoring and SAT prep–have made them my go-to source from primary through secondary school.”
– Parent of a 2016 MHS Graduate who participated in IMANI Transition to 9th Grade, Study Group, and College Advocacy Center programs
“IMANI gives students the counseling and parents the space they need to navigate a stressful college application process. JoAnn and her staff were there for us every step of the way, from counseling my daughter on which courses to choose in sophomore and junior year, to advising on the finer points of different colleges.”
– Parent of a 2015 MHS Graduate who attends The George Washington University
From staff
“When I worked with IMANI, I got to see firsthand how everyone in the program really cares about all the students who come into the Center. College tutors would come in over the holidays to work with students and would stay late to work with students when deadlines neared. I am really glad that I got to work with the IMANI team and am so excited that the program will continue to expand over the next few years.”
– Abby, former IMANI staff member