Inspired by Student Optimism: Genevieve Wagner

Genevieve Wagner, a Boston native and genetic researcher at Boston Children’s Hospital, first learned about the carceral system in the United States by way of the public health classes she took as a college student in New Orleans. She spent a year after graduation living and skiing in Montana, but when she returned to her hometown, she started researching organizations that would allow her to turn her classroom lessons about incarceration into action. That’s when she discovered the Petey Greene Program. She’s been volunteer tutoring incarcerated youth with the PGP since the fall of 2025.

Assigned to a classroom setting, Genevieve found a space that defied expectations. Alongside structured math lessons, sessions ended with interactive group math games designed by the teacher to bring all the students together. Through this environment, Genevieve was paired with a student working toward his HiSET (GED equivalent).

While some students seemed disengaged or overwhelmed by stress or distraction, the student Genevieve tutored arrived each week prepared, eager to learn, and ready with topics to discuss.

"He had every excuse in the book to give up, and instead he was the most optimistic person in the room. He pushed everyone around him to do better."

For Genevieve, the experience of seeing him overcome immense challenges through sheer determination was inspiring not just to to her, but to all the teachers and students in the room. By the end of the term, her HiSET student successfully earned his credential.

"I had no idea what I was walking into, but it was so much better than I imagined. It really opens your eyes. They’re just kids, and what they’ve done doesn't define them. They deserve to have more opportunities," she says.

Now, Genevieve is channeling that same spirit of perseverance to run the TCS New York City Marathon with the Petey Greene Program team. As she trains, she realizes that the showing up each week for her long runs is preparing her to get through the tough spots—even the bridges and hills towards the end of the race—just as the first student she worked with as a PGP tutor trained for the challenging math portion of the high school equivalency exam by showing up to each session ready to learn.

Genevieve’s 2026 TCS New York City Marathon Campaign

Support Genevieve’s Marathon Campaign

By running with the PGP Team, Genevieve is raising crucial funds and awareness to ensure more students receive the academic support, mentorship, and chances they deserve. If you’re able, consider making a donation to cheer Genevieve and her students on.

Event

2026 TCS New York City Marathon (First full 26.2-mile marathon).

Fundraising Goal

$3,500 directly supporting Petey Greene Program educational operations.