TCP Award Winner signs with Navy

Jemal Gause earned The Challenge Program, Inc. Community Service award as a senior from Greater Johnstown High School in Cambria County, PA. Westmont Woods in Johnstown is the Business Partner for the high school.

“TCP awards people who might not get other awards or even recognized at all,” Jemal stated. “The extra appreciation feels good. It gave me a sense of pride and accomplishment.”

A 2017 graduate of Greater Johnstown High School, Jemal earned the award for the hours he donated to the local NAACP chapter. He currently serves as president of this youth group. “Sadly, I will have to step down very soon because, well you know, I’m an adult now.”

In addition to the NAACP, Jemal earned hours participating in the Upward Bound program at Saint Francis University (another TCP business partner) where students receive help preparing for college. He was senior class president, held a starting position on the basketball team and maintained good grades. During the 2015 and 2016 school terms, Jemal also volunteered his time to be a TCP student advisor. (A TCP school is chosen every 2 years to serve as our Student Advisory Council.)

“I liked being behind the planning, having input, and participating with skits,” Jemal stated. “The Challenge Program was always a big deal [at Greater Johnstown High School]. It’s a good resume builder and something that kept me busy.”

Jemal has committed to sign with the Navy this summer. He hopes to serve on either a submarine or an aircraft carrier. When asked about his future plans, he said, “I hope to see myself still in the Navy for 20 years and then start another career in nuclear engineering.” He smiled some more and added, “Also I want to own a Chevy Camaro or Dodge Charger.” He added traveling to Italy or France to his bucket list.

Jemal has this advice for students heading into their senior year, “Plan ahead for the future and truly commit to something. Take your SATs, file your FAFSA, and keep your options open.”