Ciani Jones: From Frankford High to Future Dentist at Widener
We met Ciani Jones, a senior at Frankford High School, at the Philadelphia Education Fund’s Annual PEF Gala held at the Union League. The event celebrated amazing students across the city who are heading to college—and Ciani stood out with her big smile and powerful story.
“I’m going to Widener University this fall,” she said proudly. “I’ll be studying biology on a pre-dentistry track.”
Ciani said she picked Widener because the campus just felt right.
“I’m a chill, laid-back person,” she explained. “And when I visited Widener, it felt like home. Everyone was friendly, cool, and respectful.”
She first learned about Widener through her College Access Program (CAP) Coordinator, Ahmad Williams, at the Philadelphia Education Fund.
“I had never even heard of Widener,” she said. “Mr. Williams knew I wanted to go into dentistry and told me to apply. I got in, and he kept encouraging me. I even got waitlisted at Ohio State, which was my dream school, but Widener turned out to be the best fit.”
Ciani has been part of PEF’s College Access Program since 10th grade, and it’s helped her a lot.
“My favorite part was going on college visits,” she said. “That helped me figure out what I liked—and yeah, the campus food helped too!”
As the first person in her family to go to college, Ciani knows how important this step is.
“I’m the golden child,” she said with a laugh. “My little siblings look up to me. They even say they want to beat my grades and go to Widener too.”
Ciani says college is her path to a better future.
“I saw my mom struggle without a degree,” she said. “I want to make six figures and be known by name. That’s why this means so much to me.”
When asked what advice she’d give to younger students, Ciani didn’t hold back:
“Don’t give up. Lock in. It gets hard, but there’s so much help out there. You’ll be glad you stayed focused.”
And what is she most excited for at Widener?
“I love to cook!” she said. “I was in a culinary career program in high school, so I can’t wait to cook for my dorm friends.”
Ciani is ready for college—and Philly is rooting for her every step of the way.
🎥 Want to hear Ciani tell her story in her own words? Watch the full video on YouTube!
