THE HEART OF LUMIERE
Simone's Story
Simone Isabella Scott grew up in a generation where the dreams of young women—especially young Black women—felt more within reach than ever before. She didn’t just believe in possibility; she lived it. Simone was a visionary from the start—bold, brilliant, and filled with purpose.
At just six years old, while other kids talked about toys or playgrounds, Simone was already planning her future. At her birthday party, she asked her best friend where she wanted to go to college. When her friend replied, “What’s college?” Simone didn’t hesitate: “College is where you go after high school to learn even more.” With pride and certainty, she added, “I’m going to Harvard.”
Her dreams evolved over time, but her clarity and ambition never wavered. By fifth grade, a school project introduced her to Northwestern University in Chicago, and that vision became her north star. Simone aligned her academics, extracurriculars, and leadership activities toward that goal—and in 2020, she was accepted as a freshman in the Class of 2024, double majoring in broadcast journalism and political science/pre-law.
Simone had always seen herself as a voice for others. She believed in the power of storytelling to spark change, open minds, and build bridges. Her commitment to justice, inclusion, and service to others shined through in everything she did—whether she was mentoring younger students, serving in student government, or simply offering a kind word in the hallway. “Living day to day,” she once wrote, “one of my main goals is to brighten people’s day and make them feel good.”
In May 2021, Simone collapsed unexpectedly in her dorm room. She had developed viral myocarditis, which led to sudden heart failure. She was placed on life support and, in a miraculous turn, received a heart transplant within days. But her body could not withstand the trauma, and she passed away due to complications shortly after. She was just 19 years old.
The shock of Simone’s passing reverberated through every community she touched—her school, her hometown, her university, and far beyond. In the days that followed, hundreds of messages poured in, filled with stories of how Simone had inspired, encouraged, and uplifted others. Her legacy was already in motion.
Simone was, and still is, the fruit of our collective hope—of what’s possible when we nurture young people to lead, dream, and serve. She embodied the very best of us: brilliance without arrogance, ambition rooted in compassion, and leadership grounded in love. We believe Simone’s story didn’t end with her death—it was only the beginning… Just as a seed must fall before new growth begins, Simone’s life planted something powerful. From her story comes a mission. From her legacy, a light.
Lumiere: The Simone Isabella Scott Foundation was created to carry that light forward. Through mentorship, advocacy, educational opportunities, and storytelling, we are building the world Simone imagined—one where young people, especially young women, are empowered to lead, serve, and shine.
Remembering Simone
NNN NETWORK NEWS
“Simone taught us how to live boldly, speak truth with love, and serve others with joy. We miss her every day. But through Lumiere: The Simone Isabella Scott Foundation, we carry her mission forward. And now, we invite you to help us carry her mission beyond what she or we can imagine!”
With Love,
Valerie, Kevin, Bill, and Simone’s extended family