News & Research
Hickman Fund Supports Three Rochester Charter School Seniors for College Success
Rochester, NY—July 23, 2026 – Three Rochester charter school students received Hickman Fund Awards to support their college plans this fall. The following students were nominated by their charter high schools and received $2,000 awards:
Jean Pierre Felix, Vertus High School, plans to attend SUNY Brockport
Victor Saunders, University Prep Charter School for Young Men, plans to attend Clark Atlanta University
Abigael Moreau, Rochester Academy Charter School, plans to attend Temple University
Administered by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, the Hickman Fund supports graduating charter school students pursuing higher education. The fund was established in 2023 to honor Bryan Hickman, executive vice president and co-founder of EDceptional, for his unwavering dedication to expanding educational opportunities for Rochester children.
Founded by Hickman in 2012, EDceptional (formerly E3 Rochester) is Rochester’s only charter school support organization. It supports all 14 Rochester charter schools through enrollment services, literacy and academic initiatives, leadership development, and operational support. Rochester charter schools enroll more than 9,000 students—approximately 30 percent of the city’s public school students.
“These students represent the promise and potential we see every day across Rochester’s charter schools,” said Sebrone O. Johnson, CEO of EDceptional. “The Hickman Fund is a meaningful extension of EDceptional’s work, providing graduates with additional support as they take the next steps toward achieving their goals.”
Through GoodSchoolsRoc.org, EDceptional helps families explore and apply to all 27 Rochester charter school locations, expanding access to high-quality public school options throughout the city.
“Bryan has dedicated more than a decade of volunteer service to expanding opportunities for Rochester students and families,” said Jim Brush, EDceptional board chair. “His vision helped establish EDceptional as a trusted resource for schools and families alike, creating pathways to success for thousands of students. These scholarships reflect Bryan’s enduring belief that all students can learn, succeed, and pursue their dreams. We’re proud to celebrate these graduates as they begin the next chapter of their educational journey.”
About EDceptional
EDceptional is the only charter sector support organization in Rochester, helping charter schools to achieve enrollment goals and academic excellence. Believing that literacy is the foundation of all learning, the organization provides strategic support, professional development, and targeted programming to help every child achieve reading proficiency. Visit www.edceptional.org.
Media Contact: Aimee J. Lewis (585) 414-9838 or aimee.lewis@gmail.com
