Russia in 1997 was in a recession and opportunities were scarce for a fresh college graduate. Despite graduating with honors with degrees in both accounting and agriculture management, the financial hardship in his home country was making it difficult for Russians to find work. Even if they did find a job, Sergey said they weren’t always guaranteed a paycheck.

“Then the Joneses offered to sponsor me to come back,” Sergey said. “It was a great opportunity to look forward to. I found a place to flourish.”

After completing college in 1998, Sergey returned to work full time at The Chef’s Garden on a work visa in 1999. Three years later he received his Green Card, and nine years after that set out on the final step of his path to citizenship. “It was a no-brainer,” he said.



Sergey’s excitement was reserved at first, but he said he finally fully realizes the magnitude of the moment. “Freedom is a responsibility,” he said. “For so many years you’re waiting for it. It is such a big deal.”

“He and I kind of grew up together,” said Bob Jones Jr. “Sergey was one of the early ones who came through the Student Training Program.”



Sergey’s insights and suggestions about how to improve the program were crucial in its development. “I made a lot of mistakes,” Bob admitted, adding that current students in the program are reaping the benefits of Sergey’s input. “They should really thank Sergey,” he said.

Sergey said he loves living in Ohio. Boating with friends to the islands or to The Flats in Cleveland are among his favorite recreational activities. “It’s a good balance of work and being able to enjoy time when you’re not at work.”


His wife of 20 years, Natalia, received her citizenship two months before her husband. Their two children, Katia, 17, and Max, 9, were citizens the moment they were born in the U.S.  Katia, an honor student, was recently accepted at Ohio State where she’s contemplating studies in biomedical engineering. Max is into soccer and plays on a traveling basketball team. 

“I’ve lived in the U.S. longer than I lived in Russia,” Sergey said. “This is my life.”