Everett School Board Director Dr. Jennifer Hirman Inspires Students During Visit to Make It Worthy

Everett, WA — January 7, 2026

Students at Make It Worthy received a powerful lesson in leadership, perseverance, and community service on January 7, 2026, during a visit from Everett School Board Vice President

Dr. Jennifer Hirman. The visit was part of Make It Worthy’s Mentorship Program, an initiative designed to connect students with prominent leaders and professionals from the community.

During her time with students, Dr. Hirman explained the critical role the Everett School Board plays in shaping educational opportunities and policies for every student in Everett Public Schools. She described how the board works to ensure equitable access to quality education, supports teachers and staff, and advocates for the success and well-being of all learners across the district.

Dr. Hirman encouraged Make It Worthy students to remain focused on their academic goals and to fully take advantage of after-school tutoring opportunities. She emphasized that consistent effort, asking for help when needed, and staying committed to learning are key factors in long-term success.

Sharing her personal story, Dr. Hirman spoke about growing up alongside her brother and the discipline they both practiced to maintain strong academic performance. She highlighted that success did not come easily but was built through hard work, responsibility, and the support of educators and mentors who believed in them. Her message resonated strongly with students, many of whom could relate to balancing school responsibilities with other life challenges.

Dr. Hirman also spoke about her international experience traveling to Kaur, The Gambia, where she volunteered in local schools teaching students. She described how the experience broadened her perspective on education, service, and global citizenship. By sharing stories from her time abroad, she encouraged students to think beyond their immediate surroundings and consider how education can be a tool for impact both locally and globally.

Another key topic of Dr. Hirman’s talk was the importance of financial literacy. She stressed the need for students to understand money management early in life, including saving, budgeting, and making informed financial decisions. Dr. Hirman explained that financial knowledge is an essential life skill that empowers individuals to plan for the future and avoid common financial pitfalls.

Founder and Executive Director of Make It Worthy, Abdoulie Jarju, expressed gratitude to Dr. Hirman for participating in the organization’s Mentorship Program. He emphasized that mentorship is one of Make It Worthy’s most impactful and well-loved programs.

“Our students truly enjoy and benefit from hearing directly from leaders in our community,” Jarju said. “My goal is to continue bringing prominent figures to speak with our students, because it is important for them to hear firsthand what successful people did to get to where they are today. These conversations help students see what is possible for their own lives.”

Joelta Seneh, Co-founder and Development Director of Make It Worthy, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of sustaining and growing the mentorship program. She noted that exposure to professionals like Dr. Hirman helps students build confidence, expand their aspirations, and connect their academic efforts to real-world outcomes.

“We are incredibly thankful to Dr. Hirman for taking the time to stop by Make It Worthy,” Seneh said. “Our students gain so much from hearing stories of perseverance, service, and leadership. These moments are powerful and lasting.”

The visit concluded with students asking thoughtful questions and engaging in meaningful discussion, reflecting the impact of Dr. Hirman’s message. For Make It Worthy, the event reaffirmed the value of community partnerships and mentorship in shaping the next generation of leaders.

As Make It Worthy continues its mission to provide tutoring, mentorship, and pre-college support to students from marginalized communities, visits like Dr. Hirman’s serve as a reminder that success is built through hard work, guidance, and the willingness of community leaders to invest in young people.