In collaboration with the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, The Post is presenting a series through July 4, spotlighting the voices of US citizens as they reflect on the American dream as it stands in 2026. Among these voices is Joelle Simpson, who serves as the Chief of Emergency Medicine at the Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC.
Joelle’s journey to America began in 1991 when she immigrated from Trinidad with her family—her mother, father, and younger brother. With only a few suitcases in hand, they left behind their home in search of greater opportunities, aware of the limited prospects available in the Caribbean.
She recalls a cherry tree that stood outside their house, a poignant symbol of her childhood. On the day of departure, Joelle clung to that tree, reluctant to leave the cherries she loved and the life she knew. At just 13 years old, the move meant saying goodbye to close friends and familiar surroundings.
Her new life began in stark contrast to the one she left behind, transitioning from an all-girls convent school in Trinidad to the bustling environment of Port Richmond High School, a public institution in Staten Island, New York. The change was nothing short of dramatic.
Fortunately, Joelle found a path through the Gateway to Higher Education program, which fostered her passion for math and science. This initiative offered high school students exposure to research and summer courses, paving the way for future academic pursuits.
Central to her high school experience was Ms. Joan Vaccaro, her guidance counselor. Joelle recalls moments spent in Ms. Vaccaro’s office, grappling with feelings of difference due to her accent or the desire to fit in. Despite her academic successes, such as earning an A, she sometimes felt the need to conceal her achievements to maintain her social standing. The support she received during these times remains a touching memory.
I learned about the Milken Scholars program through Ms. Vaccaro. She said, “I think you’d be awesome for this program.”
I went to undergrad at Harvard, and I did my medical school degree and my masters in public health at George Washington University.
The American dream. No matter where you are in the world, that phrase is understood — that there are resources that you can tap into. There are people who can support you, if you are able to demonstrate your gifts and … you’re dedicated and have the commitment.
There are so many stories of people who’ve come from nothing to become so great, which is not necessarily [the case] in a lot of other countries. The culture here is such that it feels like you can be one of those people too.
The American Dream Video Project showcases real stories that illuminate pathways to opportunity. Featured at the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream (MCAAD), this series is part of the Center’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. MCAAD is Washington, DC’s newest cultural institution, offering interactive exhibits and stories about achieving the American Dream. For more information, visit mcaad.org.
