Summit Academy – Columbus 2026 graduates JJ Exum Jr. and Marcelo Garrison have been on a 12-year journey of friendship, education and growth — since starting their schooling as kindergarteners at Summit Academy.
Having mentored them along that voyage, Principal Cheryl Elliott expressed her delight in Marcelo’s and JJ’s achievements past and present, and confidence in the opportunities they will seize after their Summit Academy graduation.
“They are both really great kids,” she said. “Academically, they both do well. They are hard workers and get along well with their peers. It’s a thrill for me to see them go all the way through school and know they are going to make successful futures.”
Elliott said part of the equation for JJ’s and Marcelo’s successes are their supportive families.
“Both of their parents have been so supportive of our mission and getting their kids through, good and bad,” she said. “That’s why JJ and Marcelo do so well. The parents have worked right alongside us.”
JJ’s mother, Alysa Carter, said she would not have wished for her son’s education to play out any other way. Carter explained that JJ’s teachers have had a strong influence on him staying on a path of success.
“Regardless of a kid’s background, they each have different struggles. It takes people outside the family to become a village, to help them get to where they need to go,” Carter said. “You have to put your trust in their educators; 100 percent they have had my trust and loyalty, with schoolwork, attitude, checking in on them at home. They definitely go above and beyond.”
Marcelo’s father, Robert Garrison, shared sentiments similar to those of Carter, crediting Summit Academy’s role in his son’s maturity, achievements and promising future ahead.
“I give all props to Summit. They went so far and beyond. It’s just the understanding at that school. It’s the old adage; it takes a village,” said Garrison, describing the close relationship school staff keep with families.
Both Garrison and Carter have enrolled all their children at Summit Academy. They say the school’s attentive staff and depth of understanding students’ individual needs have helped all their children to thrive.
“All you need is the right people who support you and believe in you,” said Carter.
“You have to be one-on-on with student interactions and put time and intention into the process,” added Garrison, describing the dedication the school staff have invested in his son over the past 12 years. “Mrs. Elliott has dealt with Marcelo with such grace and humility.”
Chapter 2
Meet Summit Academy – Columbus Class of 2026 graduates JJ Exum Jr. and Marcelo Garrison. They sat down for an interview to share their memories, highlights, insights and future aspirations.
JJ Exum Jr.
How would you describe yourself?
I’m pretty approachable, and put my all into everything. I’m passionate about getting ahead in life and I’m a huge technology nerd. I also play soccer and have played with a community football league for the past 12 years. I’ve met a lot of cool dudes [through football] over the years.
What has been your most memorable school moment?
There have been a lot of memorable moments. I remember since my kindergarten days, teachers who have been there through thick and thin, especially Kirstie Ernst (former Summit Academy data coach). She never raised her voice or got impatient. I looked up to her.
Which current teacher has had the most influence on you?
Mr. [Christopher] Shaw has been a good mentor and has shown me and Marcelo a pathway of respect. He doesn’t come off as rude or dismissive. He has also given tips about getting jobs and about finances.
Describe Summit Academy.
This school is a pretty cool school; nothing overbearing for me.
What’s next for you?
I see myself as a warehouse data analyst, working at a job I enjoy. I’m attending Columbus State, studying computer science for two years, then plan to transfer to The Ohio State University for my bachelor’s degree. I also plan on being married by 25.
Marcelo Garrison
How would you describe yourself?
I’m a confident man. I like to help out people as much as I can. I treat everybody like family, even if I don’t know you. I give everybody respect.
Who or what has influenced you to be kind and giving to others?
My mom and dad have both had a big influence on me. It makes me feel good helping people get something they need. I want them to feel better and comfortable and that might just be by giving them a smile. I want to show kindness to people. I want to change the world’s image of people.
What has been your most memorable moment at Summit Academy?
I’ll remember the moments I’ve had with my best friend, JJ. He has helped me through a lot of things in life; how to approach people and how to talk with people. Because of him I’m where I’m at now, for sure.
Which teacher(s) have had a positive impact on you?
Our high school history teacher, Mr. [Christopher] Shaw has taught me life lessons, self-respect and how to respect others; how to carry myself during an interview, how to do financials and be a better person in general. He’s really worthy of everything. Ms. [Rebecca] St. Clair has really helped me speak with people.
What’s next?
I plan to start with one year in the workforce before joining the military and would like to become a Navy Seal. I have an older friend in the military. He inspired me to push forward in life and join the military. If I don’t make it through Seal training or don’t like it, the military will give me a jumpstart with benefits to attend college.
Summit Academy could not be prouder of these two bright, well-spoken and ambitious young men and wishes them all the success they deserve as they move on to the next chapters.