York Aids 72-Year-Old Twins Become U.S. Citizens

It was a moment that could not pass without celebration. York students gathered in the Office of Student Activities to cheer for Marie Suza Valbrun and Marie Suzie Pierre, twin sisters, age 72, who passed their U.S. citizenship exam last Thursday.

The Cambria Heights residents came to the United States in the summer of 2007 from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, only speaking Creole and French. When they decided they wanted to become U.S. citizens, the Social Security Administration office in Queens referred them to York College’s immigration program “as a place for support for the Naturalization Test,” explained Marie Suza Valbrun but translated in English for this interview through Joery Francois, admin coordinator, in the Office of Student Activities, who was instrumental in helping the sisters prepare for the exam.

When the sisters came to York in November 2023, they were excited about the opportunity to become citizens under the 55/15 waiver. The 55/15 waiver covers applicants who are 55 or older and who have held legal permanent resident status for at least 15 years.

Speaking little English and Creole/French translators available in the campus’ immigration center, the sisters were introduced to Francois who spoke fluent Creole. They attended the CUNY Citizenship Fair on December 4 at York College, where they received their applications, resource and study materials, later met with CUNY lawyers and eventually received a citizenship interview appointment for Feb. 26, 2024, which was when they took their first exam. Unfortunately, they didn’t pass the test in February, but they weren’t defeated. “Applicants get two tries before their citizenship application is denied,” Francois explained.

On March 1, with the unwavering support of York College’s Office of Student Activities, CUNY Citizenship Now! - York College Immigration Center, and the Learning Center, the sisters embarked on a rigorous journey with weekly study groups, accountability partners and practice exams through May 9 – Test Day. They emerged victorious, passing their citizenship exam.

“Since the process started, they’ve appreciated all the support. It was hard work, but they felt excited and confident that they had achieved this milestone,” Francois said.

The Office of Student Activities cheered and raised glasses of sparkling apple cider to the sisters, recognizing their awesome accomplishment. Best of all, they chose York College, “Where Your Future Takes Flight!