Washington Jesuit Academy

Demetrius did not have the easiest time at WJA. Like most of his peers, he had been severely underserved by his elementary schools and had to work twice as hard to catch up while he was at the Academy. But, perhaps due in part to the encouragement and dedication of his teachers, Demetrius knew what potential he had within him. He actively sought help from his teachers and coaches, and over his three years at the Academy, he developed discipline, character and self-confidence, both in academics and athletics. And since his graduation, despite some setbacks in high school and at home, he has remained steadfast in his journey toward high school graduation and college.

In his own pursuit of excellence, Demetrius acknowledged the potential of others, and assumed the responsibility of a leader and a role model for his peers and younger classmates. “He always made it a point to mentor the younger students,” says his teacher and coach Howard Blue. “He takes pride in doing things the right way, and he wants everyone to do well, too.” Demetrius will be respected by his peers and teachers for years to come. He will be thought of as a young man who works very hard and, perhaps more importantly, as a quiet leader and mentor.