Jackson Lommen, at just 17, exemplifies the epitome of youthful ambition and dedication. As a staff writer for The Piedmont Exedra and the Sports Editor for The Piedmont Highlander, Jackson’s journalistic prowess shines brightly in the quaint town of Piedmont, California. His role extends beyond journalism into leadership as the COO of the non-profit, Financial Future 4U, demonstrating his commitment to societal betterment.
Introduction to Jackson Lommen
Originally born and raised in Oakland, California, Jackson Lommen’s early life has consistently been characterized by a robust engagement with his local community and a fervent pursuit of diverse interests, including sports and music. Concurrently, as a senior at Piedmont High School, Jackson skillfully balances his academic responsibilities with his roles in various organizations, thereby illustrating his adept time management and unwavering dedication.
Journalism and Leadership
Jackson’s journey in journalism began with an internship at The Piedmont Exedra, where he quickly proved his mettle by covering significant local events such as Piedmont’s renowned 4th of July parade. His investigative reporting skills came to the forefront when he broke a story about an $800,000 donation originally intended for a teddy bear museum but redirected to support a local pool construction project, showcasing his ability to handle complex stories.
Serving as the Sports Editor in Chief at The Piedmont Highlander, Jackson has successfully revitalized the sports section with features that not only delve into the personalities behind the sports teams but also connect with a broader audience, significantly enhancing the newspaper’s community impact.
Philanthropy and Community Service
Jackson’s philanthropic spirit shines in his extensive volunteer work with Boys Team Charity, where he has contributed over 250 hours to initiatives like supporting food-insecure seniors and local fire suppression efforts. His work has not only aided those in need but also earned him philanthropic awards, underscoring his impact on the community.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
In April 2023, Jackson co-founded Financial Future 4U, a non-profit aimed at enhancing financial literacy among underprivileged youth. As COO, he has been pivotal in organizing workshops and seminars, bringing financial education to the forefront for many who would not otherwise have such opportunities.
Jackson Lommen: A Portrait of a Young Journalist Shaping the Future
Within the bustling community of Piedmont, California, Jackson Lommen emerges as a paragon of youthful zeal and journalistic flair. Remarkably, at just 17, he has not only carved a niche for himself as a staff writer at The Piedmont Exedra and a sports editor for The Piedmont Highlander but also as a co-founder and COO of the non-profit organization Financial Future 4U. Furthermore, his passion extends beyond journalism into philanthropy and leadership, thereby making him a notable figure in his community.
Educational Journey and Commitment to Journalism
Currently, Jackson Lommen is a senior at Piedmont High School, anticipating graduation in June 2025 with a High School Diploma. Notably, his academic life complements his vigorous involvement in journalistic pursuits. Moreover, this dedication extends beyond his school to a broader engagement with professional realms, thus demonstrating a commitment that surpasses his years.
Skills and Expertise
Jackson has honed a particular set of skills that underscore his journalistic journey:
- AP Writing: Mastery of Associated Press style writing, a fundamental skill for any budding journalist, which he has utilized in various publications.
- Leadership in Journalism: As Sports Editor in Chief and a staff writer, he has shown exceptional leadership and initiative, significantly enhancing the sports coverage in his school newspaper.
Noteworthy Publications
Jackson’s portfolio of written work is both extensive and impressive, showcasing his ability to cover a range of topics:
- Piedmont celebrates the 4th of July (The Piedmont Exedra, Jul 1, 2024): An engaging article that captured the essence of Piedmont’s 57th annual Independence Day parade, reflecting the community spirit and festive atmosphere.
- 2024 PHS Course Selection Guide: Scheduling (The Piedmont Highlander, Feb 1, 2024): A practical guide for students planning their academic year, demonstrating his ability to relay essential information effectively.
- Flag Football Pulls Students (The Piedmont Highlander, Nov 1, 2023): Coverage of the inaugural season of Piedmont’s girls’ flag football team, highlighting a significant shift in school sports culture.
- Jazz Trio Dazzles Piedmont (The Piedmont Highlander, Nov 1, 2023): A feature on the high school’s jazz band that not only showcases his writing flair but also his appreciation for the arts.
Leadership and Philanthropy
Apart from his journalistic endeavors, Jackson actively engages in philanthropic activities through his roles in Boys Team Charity and his non-profit, Financial Future 4U. He directs his efforts towards making a tangible difference in his community, especially in promoting financial literacy among underprivileged youth—a testament to his leadership and entrepreneurial spirit.
Academics and Future Aspirations
Jackson’s academic prowess clearly complements his involvement in the California Scholastic Press Association’s Journalism Workshop, where he notably enhanced his skills under the guidance of seasoned journalists from prestigious publications. Consequently, looking forward, Jackson aims to pursue a degree in journalism or communications, aspiring to impact larger audiences through his investigative reporting and storytelling.
Conclusion
Jackson Lommen represents the new wave of journalists who are not just reporters but community builders and thought leaders. With each article, initiative, and project, he is not only setting a high bar for young journalists but also crafting a legacy of impactful storytelling and community service that promises to influence generations to come. As he approaches the culmination of his high school career, the skills and experiences he has garnered position him as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in the journalistic landscape and beyond.