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News

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Jackson River Governor’s School scholar Zachary Vernon to Pursue Law and Government Studies at Princeton University

 

Zachary Vernon stands in the center of a stage.

Clifton Forge, VA – Zachary Vernon, a 2024 graduate of Jackson River Governor’s School and Mountain Gateway Community College is continuing his studies at Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey. He plans to focus his studies on law and government.

Founded in 1746, Princeton is the fourth-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. It is a very prestigious private Ivy League university and is one of the highest ranked universities in the world. Over 37,000 individuals applied for the class of 2025. Princeton’s acceptance rate is 6%.

When asked his reaction to his acceptance, Vernon said “When I found out I got into Princeton, I couldn’t believe it actually happened. I was in pure shock that someone from such a small school could get into one of the top schools in the nation.”

At JRGS Vernon earned 41 college credits with 4.0 grade average. In addition to his Governor’s School diploma, Vernon earned a Certificate of Career studies and an Associate of Science degree from Mountain Gateway Community College while attending JRGS on the MGCC campus.

“Jackson River Governor’s School helped prepare me for the increased difficulty that comes with college,” Vernon said. “I was able to take incredibly high-level classes that weren’t even offered at my high school. It also gave me experience working in a lab setting and researching. When I’m asked about a paper I’m proud of or if I have any experience working with research, I can point toward the work I did at JRGS.”

Though challenging, Vernon said his time at Jackson River Governor’s School paid off.

“The school work, late nights, and stress were all worth it for the experiences and knowledge I gained. The teachers and staff were always willing to be there and stay after to help you learn and work through even the most challenging things,” Vernon said. “If you can go to JRGS, please do. Don’t be scared of the challenge and potential to fail. It’s a great experience and 100% worth it.”

Jackson River Governor’s School is a partnership of Mountain Gateway Community College, Alleghany Highlands Schools, Bath County Schools, Botetourt County Schools, and Buena Vista City Schools. In addition to James River High School, it serves students from Alleghany High School, Bath County High School, and Parry McCluer High School. For more information contact JRGS Director Eddie Graham at egraham@mgcc.edu or (540)863-2872.

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This initiative is 100% supported by a federal U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) award made to Dabney S. Lancaster Community College by the pass-through entity, Virginia Community College System. The total program cost for this initiative is $47,000.