KELSEYVILLE, Calif. — The California Jaycee Foundation announced Joseph Gentle of Kelseyville High School as one of its high school scholarship winners who will receive a $1,000 California Jaycee Foundation Scholarship as a result of a competition completed in January 2023.

“The pool of candidates statewide that submitted applications was very strong this year making our choices very difficult,” said Mary Alessandra-Cook, chairperson of the Scholarship Committee at The California Jaycee Foundation. “We are pleased to award Joseph a $1,000.00 scholarship from California and recognize his success in our competition.”

Gentile grew up on a rural lake, worked in pear orchards and packing sheds, and bucked more hay than he would like to admit all while starting the Lake County High School Fishing Club and being its president.

He and his fishing partner travel throughout the United States competing in Bass fishing tournaments and are the highest ranked Western team in the U.S.

He is an outstanding scholar and triathlete, achieving a 4.23 grade point average while enrolled in challenging coursework at Kelseyville High School with dual enrollment in Mendocino College.

Gentile tutored students in science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, through Americorps and plans on studying engineering and economics hoping to one day specialize in freshwater environments and cutting edge technologies to help agriculture-based communities.

Potential for future impact

Every candidate packet demonstrated exceptional work in academics, community involvement and personal leadership.

The submitted packets were reviewed by a team of business, professional leaders and educators for these criteria plus each student’s GPA, a personal statement, references offered, honors and awards and personal effort to learn and prepare to invest in themselves through further education.

“These young people are exceptionally talented individuals we believe will be part of an exciting future for California or wherever they chose to work in the world,” said Jim McMahon, president of the California Jaycee Foundation. “We believe Joseph’s drive in working hard, excelling academically, coaching others, and his volunteer efforts demonstrates the beginning of what we hope will be a fulfilling life helping others. “

Formed in 1964 The California Jaycee Foundation is a 501 C (3) tax exempt entity focused on leadership, education and community service.

The foundation board is made up of business, education and community leaders supporting young people making a difference in their community through service organizations like the Jaycee.

Persons wishing to become involved or donate to the scholarship funds or other projects are invited to check the web page at https://www.cajcifoundation.org.