GIBBS COLLEGE of Boston is proud to nominate JESSE CUTLER for an Outstanding Student Achievement Award for 2005. Jesse, from Newton, enrolled in the two year Visual Communications program in April of 2003. He proved to be a bright and dedicated student. Jesse's determination is proof of tenacity and strong will. Jesse grew up on the streets of Boston where he became a gang member by the age of fifteen. When he was twenty-two, he was shot nine times and nearly died. Jesse lost sight in one eye and became paralyzed from the waist down. During eight months of rehabilitation, Jesse had his right frontal lobe and spleen removed. Jesse decided it was time to change for the better. He began speaking at juvenile detention centers and hospitals, both warning and nurturing those who were following the same path he once had. Then, the unimaginable happened. Jesse's wife died, leaving him alone to care for seven children and stepchildren. Surrounded by his family, Jesse pushed forward. He has stayed in college, earned good grades and became Vice President of the Student Forum at Gibbs. Jesse continues to be an inspiration, constantly challenging himself to do better to succeed. He plans to pursue a career in Fashion Design, creating a line of women's fashions, to support the American Heart Association. Jesse should be very proud of his achievements. Jesse has proven that anyone can change their lives and overcome obstacles in their path in order to accomplish their goals.