In Loving Memory

Inspired by the lifelong traveling and wishes of the late Mrs. Kimberly Rachel Willis Gagnier, Sankofa Educational Excursions (SEE) was established in 2022 in Los Angeles, CA. Mrs. Willis Gagnier was born in Los Angeles, California, on May 3, 1971. Living in Los Angeles, Mrs. Willis Gagnier attended the Westlake School for Girls from seventh grade through High School. She immediately pursued Higher Education by attending and graduating from Howard University, earning a B.A. degree in political science, and continuing her education at Howard University School of Law. She was an editor for the Howard Law Journal and received the Dean's Leadership Award. Howard University recognized her as a distinguished alumna for Leadership in America and the Global Community. 

 

Mrs. Willis Gagnier traveled extensively with her family, father, mother, and older brother. Her experiences with her family stimulated the idea of providing exposure opportunities to young people. As an adult, she visited numerous countries and every continent except Australia due to her untimely passing. Her goal was to travel and see places on all seven of the world's landmasses.

 

Wherever she traveled, Kimberly immersed herself in the culture and history of the destination. Of the many voyages, one of Mrs. Willis Gangier's fondest memories was the trip to Antarctica with her mother, Wilma Johnson Willis. (Pictured Below) Together, they shared their most extraordinary experiences traveling with family and friends. Their philosophy, "traveling opens your eyes and mind to appreciate the near-infinite ways of seeing God's work."

 

The desire to share what she gleaned from her travels led Mrs. Willis Gangier to the mission of SEE, an organization dedicated to funding international trips for young people from underserved communities. She wanted these young people to have the same opportunity to see the world and diverse cultures and expand their horizons through community service.

 

Mrs. Willis Gangier believed we all should work to have a positive influence in the community and around the world. SEE will operate to realize her beliefs and impact her loving memory by exposing others to see the world. Join our team in our quest to positively enhance and influence the lives of young people through travel, cultural enrichment, and service.