He’s running Boston one week after the Paris Marathon

Jerome Soltani, an executive at Schneider Electric, aims to "raise awareness and support the Red Cross."

March 31, 2025

2 minutes to read

In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.

Name: Jerome Soltani
Age: 49
City: Boston

Running has been a lifelong passion — one that has shaped my discipline, resilience, and ability to push beyond limits. I’ve run marathons all over the world, including running the Boston Marathon in 2023. Running brings me a sense of peace and tranquility, but this year it’s about more than personal well-being and achievement. It’s about giving back.

Just one week before Boston, I’ll take on the Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris. Running two major marathons back-to-back is no small feat, but I’m doing it to raise awareness and support for the Red Cross. As an executive at Schneider Electric, I’ve appreciated participating in our philanthropy work, including our organization’s longstanding partnership with the American Red
Cross, spanning over 50 years with $75,000 dedicated to disaster relief efforts annually. My colleagues have also rallied around me to support this cause.

The Red Cross plays a crucial role in disaster relief, blood donation (supplying approximately 40% of the nation’s blood), humanitarian aid, and supporting military families and veterans — causes that have resonated with me since childhood. Growing up in Normandy, France, I have vivid memories of the French Red Cross being a constant presence during my childhood. I recall seeing dedicated Red Cross volunteers always ready to assist those in need.
This unwavering support for people suffering from various hardships left a lasting impression on me.

Having the Boston area as my home now, it’s especially meaningful to be able to run the Boston Marathon in support of the American Red Cross of Massachusetts. Boston is more than a race; it’s a symbol of endurance, strength, and community. I’m proud to take part this year and support an organization so committed to resilience and humanitarian aid. Any donation above $25 to my cause will be automatically matched by the Schneider Electric Foundation.