• Patti Grace Smith Fellow, Class of 2025

• Columbia University, Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mathematics, ‘27

• Host Institution: Relativity

Jonathan Pierre is a proud Haitian and first-generation college student navigating a path paved with resilience and determination. He is currently attending Columbia University pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mathematics. His academic journey is fueled by a passion for aerospace and a commitment to bridging the gaps in access and opportunity for students with similar beginnings. These experiences inspire his dream of establishing "The Pierre Foundation," an organization dedicated to mentoring and empowering underprivileged students through opportunity and mentorship, creating a generation of leaders. At Columbia University, he is an active member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and serves as a Student Representative on Columbia Engineering Student Council. Through these roles, he advocates for creating more equitable, diverse, and accessible opportunities for students passionate about engineering. Beyond the confines of the classroom, his passion for fostering inclusivity drives him to participate in initiatives that bridge cultural and educational divides.

Beyond these responsibilities, he finds joy in artistic expression as a dancer on Sabor, Columbia’s Latin dance team, and Ijoya, Columbia African dance team. Performing with these groups along with holding leadership positions in The Caribbean Student Association (CSA) and Haitian Student Association (HSA) allows him to celebrate and showcase cultural diversity while fostering meaningful exchanges within our campus community.

His involvement extends beyond academics and dance. Jonathan holds various leadership positions on campus, promoting cultural awareness and unity while creating platforms for marginalized voices to be heard. Guided by his experiences in robotics and rockets, an exploration that has not only deepened his understanding but has also solidified my passion for engineering. As a Patti Grace Smith Fellow, Jonathan is eager to immerse himself in hands-on experiences within the aerospace industry, collaborating with visionary professionals and contributing to groundbreaking projects, while also forming new and lasting connections with the aerospace community as a whole.

Beyond his professional aspirations, his mission is clear: to make a positive impact on my community and inspire others to overcome their challenges. Guided by the principle, "I will persist until I succeed," Jonathan is determined to leave a legacy of hope, opportunity, and empowerment for future generations.