October 7, 2024- Hampton, VA – Thanks to one generous donor, more than 100 Hampton University students received a passport at no personal expense during the 2024-2025 school year. Jelani Travel CEO and Hampton University Alumna, Ashley N. Company, donated $25,000 to the Hampton University International Office to pay the passports and passport photos for students who have never had a passport. Company presented her gift on October 7, 2024 at 12 p.m. in the Student Center Theatre.
Ms. Company has spent the last decade curating cultural immersion and service trips to Africa and beyond. Her dedication extends beyond borders, as she spearheads initiatives to sponsor U.S. passport fees for young adults facing financial constraints.
Ms. Company shared why she’s so passionate about sponsoring US passport fees for young adults. “Travel liberates us by healing parts of ourselves we may not even realize need attention. I know this firsthand—travel saved my life,” she said. “Our future leaders are right here at Hampton University, and these students deserve access to the transformative impact of international travel. A passport is a crucial first step, and I’m honored to support them in obtaining this important tool for their journeys ahead.”
Assistant Director of the Hampton University International Office Samaria Haysbert explained, “Ms. Company’s donation will enable students to become global citizens and incentivize them to participate in study abroad programs as a part of their student experience,” she said. “Over the last 20 years, black and brown students made up about 6% of the U.S. students who have international experiences.” Haysbert added, “Two barriers to participation in our international and study abroad programs are funding and the ability of our students to obtain Passports. Ms. Company answered our call to action and supplied the passports.”
The International Office hosted a Passport Caravan in the Student Center Student Lounge, beginning at 10 a.m. October 8, 2024. A postmaster and supporting staff assisted with processing passport applications for the 100 pre-registered students.
Read more about Alumna Ashley N. Company HERE!
