Best & Brightest: Told He Lacked the “Intellectual Capacity” To Learn, Ph.D Candidate Proves Otherwise
Markell Harrison-Jackson grew up with a self-destructive combination of uncontrollable anger and learning inability.
10 Responses to “Best & Brightest: Told He Lacked the “Intellectual Capacity” To Learn, Ph.D Candidate Proves Otherwise”
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October 24th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
What a beautiful story, Thanks Mr. Jackson for sharing your story. Hopefully one day you can write a book about your life, You are definitley an Inspiration for foster kids.
Thanks
October 24th, 2007 at 3:21 pm
This is a wonderful example of determination and perseverance. Instead of star athletes and celebrities, these are the kinds of people we should encourage our young people to have as role models.
Thanks to DIVERSE for this story of hope and empowerment.
October 24th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
This is an extremely inspirational story. I offer words of great encouragement and salute this young man’s resolve. He is a true example of how a person can overcome extreme adversity. I hope that he will be able to share his story in as many corners of the African American community and other communities as possible. BRAVO!!!! BRAVO!!!! BRAVO!!!! This is my standing ovation.
October 24th, 2007 at 5:59 pm
I coincide with all the comments posted prior to mine, inspirational, motivational, etc…! What I would like to know is, when faced with the decision after foster care to go left or right, was it a spiritual decision based upon what you had been taught or was the decision inate? Realizing that our fate is predetermined by God, I as just curious to know about that decision.
I would love to have a sit down chat with this young man, maybe one day! God bless!
October 25th, 2007 at 8:14 pm
Soon to be Dr. Jackson:
This is a very inspirational story. You channeled your negative experiences into something very positive. I encourage you to continue telling your story. It gives a lot of people hope.
I too have had similar setbacks and have used those experiences to push me forward.
Good Luck! I know you’ll be a fine Principal!
Lennor
October 28th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
The Markell Harrison-Jackson article brought tears to my eyes. I know Kell quite well. We are student colleagues at Lynn University, who are (both) trying to shoot for the stars, by completing our PhD’s togther. I* am so very proud of this young man. Were it not for Kell, I would have given up—He has been my inspiration—each time we felt we could no longer endure, we’d talk each other through, despite all the obstacles and heartache. I am very honored to know Kell. He has much to offer in so many ways: as a friend, mentor, educator, and humanitarian. I would joke with Kell, telling him, “I certainly would be proud to be your Mom and have you as part of my family” — and introduce Kell as my surrogate son. And, I will do anything in my power to help him through the PhD program, which I know he is aware of. This young man could have “thrown in the towel” ages ago — but, Kell has what it takes to be a shining, guiding light to many. I would love to see Kell run for public office one day, and I will be right beside him as his assistant, should he wish to have me on board! It would be a great honor and pleasure to do so. I look forward to see Kell’s name in lights one day soon.
October 28th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
I also know Markell. In fact, I met him right around the time he was completing his qualifying paper. I work in Lynn’s library, where Kell spent so much of his time. His faith and perseverance (and resilience!) in the face of overwhelming adversity are such an inspiration to me. He has helped me work through a great deal of challenges in my own life as well and I am forever grateful.
I am proud to call him my brother today, or as he would say, my “brother from another mother.”
It is so amazing and refreshing to see someone so dedicated to making a difference in this world, and it truly comes from his heart. I know that Kell is going to go far and that this world is a better place with him in it.
“Stay tuned, hold the focus, and seek blessings.”- Markell Harrison-Jackson
October 28th, 2007 at 10:41 pm
Markell,
We are all very proud of you. What a great end to a horrible begining, sky’s the limit for you now and forevermore. Never forget those who have been there for you throughout this journey. It is truely a blessing to read your story. It is only proof that GOD is able and alway working. This is a true testiment that “Anything is Possible”. Keep striving! I wish you all the best is everything you do.
Congratulations,
October 29th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
Markell:
It was obvious that God had a plan for you inspite of the obstacles that were placed in your life at a very young age. With strength, self perservance you are successfully achieving your goals. Continue to soar to the sky because sky is the limited. I am so very proud of you and your accomplishments. I know it’s been hard but you didn’t give up. Much success to you and your accomplishments.
God Bless you.
Cherrie Johnson
November 2nd, 2007 at 3:05 am
Dear Markell AKA Ekel,
I am also very proud of Markell. We did our undergraduate together in Social Work and we did our Graduate course at Canisus College. I know he is a strong person and he never stop looking for more to do. Markell have been through so much I don’t know how he keeps going. I know you will be in Washington one day Markell. I just want you to know I do love you. Don’t forget your two sister’s Natacha and Lisa.