Celebrating 50 Years of Junior Achievement of Lincoln | Harvey's Story

Author: JA Lincoln
Community Involvement
Published: Wednesday, 30 Jun 2021

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Image caption: Harvey Schwartz

Harvey Schwartz
Retired from Rixstine Recognition, JA Board Member

When and where did you experience Junior Achievement programs?

I became acquainted with JA 50 years ago when, as president of the local HR professional organization, I was asked to judge the contest for the outstanding Vice President of Personnel for the After School program -- the only program at the time. I was enthralled with the knowledge and burgeoning professionalism of these young people. I was asked to do so the next year and I was hooked. Seeing the impact JA was having on student's understanding of business and industry and how to build success through other people became a passion for me -- and still is. I joined the Board in 1973 and was president in the mid eighties and still am an active member.

How did Junior Achievement have a positive impact on your life?

Just seeing growth in the young people going through the various programs has impacted me greater than I could imagine. I have taught classroom programs in Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th grades and piloted 8th grade programs at Cathedral and at the Juvenile Attention Center.

What is your favorite Junior Achievement memory?

I was teaching a second grade class in which my granddaughter was a student. One of the concepts was the difference between needs and wants. A few weeks later we were riding in the car and her little brother kept asking for a special toy. She turned to him and asked, "Sammy, is that a need or a want?" I knew then that the programs really struck a chord with the young people.