JA Celebrates Homecoming and Alumni Reunion Weekend
Jackson Academy celebrated Homecoming on Friday, October 17, with a full day of festivities that brought together students, families, and alumni under this year’s theme, “Under the Sea.”
Distinguished Alum Credits JA with Helping Redirect His Life
“Sometimes you have to leave home to see how wonderful something is,” said Lenwood Brooks ‘01, the 2025 recipient of the Jackson Academy’s Distinguished Alumni of the Year award. The alumnus who portrayed the Wizard in the school’s “The Wizard of Oz” production years ago was not speaking figuratively. Like Dorothy’s character in that tale, Brooks lived out a story of leaving and returning. Returning to JA, he said, made all the difference in his life.
JA Alumnus Takes on 2025 World Marathon Challenge
Dr. Clark Gamblin ’87 believes the body will do what the mind says. The Professor of Surgery and the Vice-Chair for Clinical Operations at Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has tested this belief. He will test it again from January 31 to February 6, running seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.
Dalton Gibson ’16 Spotted in Andy Grammer Music Video
Engineering or dance? Dalton Gibson ‘16 wondered, why not both? JA students and alumni are known for doing many things well. Gibson exemplifies that ability.
Andrew Ritter’s Journey: Football, Faith, and Family
Andrew Ritter’s story is one of those that sticks with you. In 2009, he graduated from Jackson Academy, where he was already making waves on the football field. His skills as a kicker landed him a spot at Ole Miss, where he played for four years, including a redshirt year. The highlight? Kicking the game-winning field goal against LSU, a moment Ole Miss fans won’t forget anytime soon.
Alumni Award Recipient Models Dedication to JA
Jackson Academy has awarded this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award to Ashley Edmonson Willson ’87. The award is presented annually to an alumna or alumnus leading a life of purpose and significance through professional achievement, service to the community, or loyalty to JA. Eligible nominees are JA graduates who have been an alumna or alumnus for at least 10 years before being nominated for the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Trey Carroll Overcomes Challenge and Helps Others Find What Makes Them Tick
William Trevor “Trey” Carroll ’09 traveled a circuitous route to settle on his career. Along this path, he experienced a surprising health challenge that diverted his course but helped him choose his life’s work. He now helps individuals find a more direct way to a satisfying occupation.
JA Names Dr. Travelstead to Distinguished Alumni Group
Meredith Montgomery Travelstead, M.D. ’89 has been a champion for women’s health as a Jackson area OBGYN, supporting and educating women in all stages of life.
Alumnus Brad Edwards Speaks About Sports Broadcasting Career
Endeavors students pursue in high school and college can lead to opportunities they cannot foresee, said Brad Edwards ’89. That’s how he sees his career trajectory. Edwards visited Jackson Academy’s broadcasting class Wednesday while on tour for his recently released book, “Dynasty by the Numbers,” a historical perspective of the University of Alabama’s 13-year dominance in collegiate football.
JA Graduate Honored by USA Today “I Am Sport” Program
Jackson Academy 2021 graduate Alice Williams was named USA Today’s “I Am Sport” recipient for Mississippi. “I Am Sport” is the largest high school sports recognition program in the country.