American Dream of 2026: Joel Simpson’s Journey

Until July 4, the Post is collaborating with the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream to showcase American citizens sharing their views on what the American Dream means as we approach 2026. One of the featured voices is Joel Simpson, who serves as the director of emergency medicine at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC.

Reflecting on his past, Simpson recalls moving to the U.S. from Trinidad in 1991 with his family. They arrived with just two suitcases, a transition marked by a clear understanding that opportunities were scarce back home.

There’s a memorable moment from his past—a cherry blossom tree outside his house. As he prepared for their journey to the airport, he felt a deep attachment to the tree, expressing his reluctance to leave. At just 13, the thought of departing from close friends was heart-wrenching.

Simpson transitioned from a convent school in Trinidad to Port Richmond High School, a public school in Staten Island, New York. The change was quite drastic, to say the least.

Fortunately, he found support through a program called Gateway to Higher Education, which focused on math and science, introducing high school students to research opportunities and summer courses.

He fondly remembers his guidance counselor, Ms. Joanne Vaccaro. It brings an emotional stir to him as he recalls feeling self-conscious about his accent and being embarrassed about his academic success, often attempting to downplay his straight A’s to fit in.

Mr. Vaccaro was instrumental in guiding him towards the Milken Scholars Program, suggesting that he would be an excellent candidate for it.

Simpson went on to attend Harvard University for his undergraduate studies, before earning both his medical degree and a master’s in public health from George Washington University.

To Simpson, the American Dream embodies the notion that regardless of where one starts in life, there are resources available. If one is both talented and dedicated, support will often come from those around them.

While many stories depict people who have overcome adversity to achieve greatness, that outcome isn’t universal—similar struggles exist in various countries. Yet, the cultural fabric in the U.S. fosters a sense of belonging and possibility.

The American Dream Video Project showcases genuine stories that highlight pathways to opportunity, part of the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream’s efforts as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. For more details, visit mcaad.org.