Ari Smith
Ari Smith is a graduate of Pittsburgh Science & Technology Academy, where he earned a 4.06 weighted GPA and emerged as both an academic leader and an artist-activist. This fall, he will attend Boston University, where he will deepen his commitment to performance, equity, and community engagement. Ari stands out for his rare fusion of intellectual rigor, creative fluency, and a strong ethical compass that informs everything he does.

Ari has excelled in a rigorous academic curriculum that includes AP and College in High School (CHS) courses in Statistics, Biology, U.S. History, and English. But what truly sets Ari apart is his capacity to fuse personal growth with public service. As a proud member and officer of the Black Student Union, Ari served as social media manager and director of critical race theory programming, on a team, creating school-wide cultural showcases and leading inclusive initiatives. He also served as the historian for both the National Honor Society and Class Council, using digital platforms to elevate student engagement and celebrate shared accomplishments.

​Ari’s leadership extends far beyond the classroom. As a Student Ambassador Group Leader and Head Tour Guide, he became the welcoming face of SciTech for prospective families. Simultaneously, he pursued his love for musical theater through Urban Impact, where he starred in lead roles, taught choreography as a dance captain, and raised approximately $15,000 to support program operations. He also mentors children as a choir huddle leader and educates young students on emergency preparedness through the Red Cross "Prepare with Pedro" initiative.

Perhaps most notably, Ari's path is marked by extraordinary emotional intelligence. His personal reflections on navigating rejection and silence reveal a young man of uncommon insight and resilience. Grounded in literature and introspection, Ari has turned pain into perspective and chosen to lead with authenticity and compassion.

He is a high-honor roll student, a storyteller, and a systems-thinker—committed to using his voice, creativity, and intellect to shape a more inclusive and humane world.

Trailblazer · Reflective · Scholar · Artist · Compassionate

 

Joseph Thrasher
Joseph Thrasher is a graduate of Pittsburgh CAPA (Creative and Performing Arts) High School, where he earned a 4.14 weighted GPA and developed a reputation as a compassionate leader, artist, and advocate for equity. His academic excellence and outstanding contributions to community life earned him admission to the University at Buffalo, where he was named a Provost Scholar, receiving a $48,000 merit award recognizing him as one of UB’s top applicants.

Joseph’s strength lies not only in his academic discipline, but in his unwavering dedication to uplifting others. As a member of the National Honor Society, Black Student Union, Green Team, Student Council, and Stand Together, Joseph has taken on leadership roles that prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and youth empowerment. Whether coordinating school-wide events or managing social media to promote student engagement, Joseph has used every platform to foster community and positive change.

His volunteerism spans organizations including the Charlie Bach Foundation, World Vision, and Eradicate Hate, where he has worked to support youth, promote interfaith unity, and directly improve conditions for vulnerable communities. From ushering guests at live theater through Beyond Stage to clearing city parks and helping those in need with clothing and home repairs, Joseph’s impact is both broad and personal.

Joseph’s creative journey began with a simple passion: entertaining others. Inspired by childhood performances for his father and early YouTube videos, Joseph has continued to use digital storytelling as a way to connect, heal, and inspire. After the tragic loss of his father during his freshman year, Joseph chose to keep creating—not only to honor his dad, but to preserve joy and memory during a time of profound grief. His school vlogs, which once helped his father stay connected from afar, have now become a legacy of resilience, creativity, and love.

In every space he enters, Joseph brings light—through service, humor, humility, and care. He enters college not just with potential, but with purpose.

Visionary · Unshakable · Leader · Storyteller · Advocate

​

Jailon Jamison
Jailon Jamison is a sophomore at La Roche University, where he is majoring in Supply Chain Management, with a minor in Management Information Systems. A dedicated scholar, he has maintained a 3.85 GPA while excelling in multiple leadership and service roles. Jailon is a member of the University of Pittsburgh’s Air Force ROTC program, where he serves as a GMC Advisor and was twice selected as Cadet of the Month. He is also a student-athlete on the La Roche Cross Country team.

Jailon's leadership extends beyond the classroom and into the community. He has volunteered for various service events, including organizing logistics for the Tough Mudder and supporting animal welfare at the South Hills Pet Rescue. At the Pitt vs. Clemson women’s basketball game, he proudly represented Detachment 730 in the Color Guard, upholding military ceremonial traditions with precision and respect.

Prior to his academic career, Jailon served in the United States Air Force for eight years, where he managed aircraft maintenance operations and coordinated multi-unit logistics to support global mission readiness. 

Jailon has been repeatedly recognized by faculty and military leadership for his integrity, work ethic, and mentorship of younger cadets. He will commission into the U.S. Air Force upon graduation, continuing his commitment to excellence and service.

Disciplined · Solver · Community-Minded · Humble · Driven