Edison senior, Jerica Gillespie, was selected to be the guest speaker at the AchieveMPLS luncheon held on November 13, 2014 and had the opportunity to meet former Mayor R.T. Rybak. This is the second year in a row that AchieveMPLS selected an Edison student to receive this honor.  Gillespie contributes her success to AchieveMPLS, Step-Up, Career and College Center and Edison teachers, "My teachers at Edison know me and challenge me every day", stated Gillespie.

Gillespie has already taken college level courses in writing, math and physics and plans on seeking a Bachelor’s degree in Business Communications and becoming a motivational speaker. Gillespie continues to challenge herself by being involved in Edison's programs: YMCA Beacons – Promotional Captain, Black Students Leadership Council, and College Possible. Currently she is an intern at US Bank and was selected among 40 interns to speak in front of CEO Richard Davis through the Step-Up program.

Gillespie gives back to the community through her volunteer work for the Youth Crush Program and Feed my Starving Children. She is known to go above and beyond of what is expected of her and frequently uses her public speaking skills to emcee Edison's events such as: Convocation, Open House and talent shows. 

Nora Guerin, Career and College Coordinator at Edison High School stated, "Jerica will succeed in anything she sets her mind to." We look forward to seeing Gillespie accomplishing her goals. Learn more about Jerica Gillespie and AchieveMpls by clicking on the links below.

Student speaker video featuring Jerica from Edison: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=193h-tnTYV0
New AchieveMpls video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfcYNRmQ70I&feature=youtu.be