Forman Scholar Jerome Crews Aims to Give Back and Be Positive Role Model for Salem Community

At this point, Jerome Crews isn’t dead set on pursuing any occupation in particular. But one thing is for certain: Helping others is his calling, and the field he ultimately selects must allow him to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. With plans to attend Lincoln University in Oxford, Pa., this fall to study criminal justice and psychology, the Forman Scholar hopes to spend the next few years investigating how to best translate his passion for service into a purpose-driven career.

Jerome first discovered an interest in the human brain and its complex patterns and processes after taking a psychology course at Salem High.

“I have always found it incredible how a single thought can spin itself into a complex, life-changing idea,” Jerome said.

With this fascination for how people think and relate to one another as a foundation, Jerome shares two – some might say quite different – potential life paths: one as an FBI agent and another as a child psychologist. Regardless, he has plans to eventually establish a nonprofit organization to benefit his hometown Salem community and emphasize the importance of education for all students.

“Salem can sometimes feel like a ‘ghost town,’ and students don’t often have access to all of the tools they’d need to be most successful,” Jerome said. “I want to be that person who offers guidance and advice to young people as they advance into higher education.”

Throughout his time in high school, Jerome remained heavily involved in several extracurricular activities. His membership in Salem High’s National Honor Society and Chess Club provided plenty of opportunities to hone his leadership and collaboration skills. And as a tutor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cumberland & Salem Counties, he forged connections with members of his community and shared his time and talents with fellow youth.

"I believe that every student should be required to engage in some sort of community service activity,” Jerome said. “It truly takes a village to raise a child, so those of us who have benefited from years of love and support owe an immense debt of gratitude. What better way to demonstrate an appreciation for the opportunities we have been provided than by opening doors for others in our community?”

As a member of the Gateway Scholars program, Jerome maintained an even greater presence in the Salem area. He and fellow members of the program attended regular meetings to study current events and discuss how to improve their hometown through fundraising and civic engagement efforts.

Similarly, Jerome’s experience as a member of the Forman Acton Foundation Youth Board allowed him to share the mission of the organization with others in the community and participate in volunteer efforts. He fondly remembers crafting care packages to send to Acorn and Forman Scholars and looks forward to the continued support of the Foundation as he embarks on new beginnings at Lincoln.

“My time on the Youth Board was an extraordinary way to showcase how beneficial the Foundation is to the students of Salem,” Jerome said. “I’m blessed that the Foundation took a chance on me. With the continued support and encouragement of the organization and its fantastic staff, I commit to making the next few years count so that I, too, can one day be in a position to support and encourage other individuals in their hour of need.”