Jackson Cantrell | Mandeville – 12th grader at Mandeville High School
Jackson Cantrell is a National Merit Scholar, who loves to cook, host book club and film nights, clear trails, and participate in city council meetings. Jack serves as Co-President of his school’s Youth & Government Club. He often uses a word from Ghana to describe his worldview. “Sankofa” is the concept of taking lessons from the past to better guide one’s future. He believes that to benefit society, all history must be remembered. His research into lives of enslaved and Native groups began when he installed two historical markers at Fontainebleau State Park, a former 1800s sugar plantation. He discovered 153 names of family members held in bondage. He documented these findings, as well as information on local indigenous nations. State historians published both works online. His papers are also on file with Amistad Research Center. His speaking tour has included Tulane’s Environmental Law & Policy Summit and the College of William & Mary’s symposium, “Four Centuries of Black Women in America.” His will to stand up for others comes from a place close to his heart, advocating for his autistic big brother, Cole. Jack - Eagle Scout of the Year - has contributed 400+ hours in public service. Whether stocking shelves for Habitat for Humanity’s resale store, sweeping rivers of trash, or scrubbing headstones of veterans, Jack actively recruits others to join him. There is no escaping his enthusiasm.
