Leading with Purpose 

It’s easy to assume that high school students have time to spare. But every so often, you meet someone whose days seem impossibly full. Before the first bell rings, they’re already carrying out responsibilities that many adults would find challenging. Somehow, they still show up ready to learn, lead, compete, work, volunteer, and encourage those around them. 

That balance has defined Gianna Jasseh’s high school experience.  

As a 2026 recipient of the Barbara and Jack Erickson Scholarship, Gianna has spent the past four years at Bellefonte High School building an impressive record of academic achievement while balancing leadership opportunities, community service, athletics, a part-time job, and responsibilities at home. 

Academically, Gianna challenged herself with Advanced Placement and honors classes, demonstrating a commitment to learning that matched her determination outside the classroom. Her efforts earned her the Dylan Crunick Award, an honor presented to a student who exemplifies enthusiasm, hard work, honesty, respect, teamwork, and leadership. 

Leadership became a common thread throughout Gianna’s high school career. She served as Event Committee Leader for Raider Revolution, Secretary of Key Club and Class Cabinet, Vice President of both the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society and participated on the Student Safety Committee. Whether organizing events, managing social media, planning fundraisers, or helping classmates have a voice, Gianna consistently looked for ways to make a positive impact. 

Service has been equally important to her. She has volunteered with the Special Olympics and the Centre Region Down Syndrome Dance. These experiences allowed her to connect with others while helping to create welcoming, joyful events for participants and their families. 

Athletics also played a significant role in her high school journey. As a freshman, Gianna made the varsity basketball team and later served as team captain.  She also competed in track and field, qualifying in field events during her freshman year. 

Outside of school, Gianna worked at The Meadows Original Frozen Custard, where she developed strong customer service, organizational, and leadership skills while advancing into a shift leader role. Balancing work alongside rigorous academics and extracurricular commitments required discipline, careful time management, and perseverance. 

Much of that determination comes from her experiences at home. 

“I have worked hard throughout high school to stay involved in academics, athletics, and community service while balancing responsibilities at home,” Gianna said. “Being raised by a single mother has taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity.” 

This fall, Gianna will attend Indiana University of Pennsylvania to pursue a nursing degree. Inspired by the opportunity to care for others, she hopes to build a career dedicated to helping people during some of life’s most important moments. 

“My goal is to become a nurse and build a career centered around helping others,” she said. “I am excited to continue my education and gain the knowledge and experience needed to make a difference in people’s lives.” 

Receiving the Barbara and Jack Erickson Scholarship through a fund at Centre Foundation will help make that goal possible by easing the financial burden of college and allowing Gianna to focus on her education. 

“This scholarship will help reduce the financial stress that comes with attending college and will allow me to focus more on my education and future career goals,” she said. “It will make a meaningful difference as I begin this next chapter of my life.” 

Gianna is deeply appreciative of the generosity behind the scholarship. 

“I am very grateful for the support provided through this scholarship,” she said. “The generosity of donors and families helps make higher education more accessible for students like me and encourages us to continue working toward our goals.” 

Gianna’s accomplishments tell only part of her story. What stands out most is her willingness to lead, serve, work hard, and embrace every opportunity that comes her way. Those qualities have shaped her high school experience and will continue to guide her as she begins a career devoted to caring for others.