Campaigns
Membership
Each year, the Harlan Alumni Association helps fuel student success by funding supplies, equipment, and enrichment activities that keep the Falcon spirit soaring. Your $25 membership covers January 1 through December 31. This and any additional gift to the Richard E. Thompson Fund—directly supports the next generation of Harlan leaders.
Why Join?
Harlan Falcons share more than memories—we share a mission. Every alum brings something unique:
- Fresh grads connect easily with current students
- Seasoned alumni offer wisdom, experience, and guidance
- Everyone has a place—through time, talent, or treasure
Member Perks
- Reconnect with old classmates and meet new faces
- Attend galas, reunions, and special events
- Grow your network with Harlan’s successful and influential alumni
- Boost your personal and professional profile
- Rekindle that unmistakable Harlan School Spirit
Richard Thompson Scholarship Fund
The Richard E. Thompson Fund was established on February 16, 2008 by the John M. Harlan High School Alumni Association, NFP, (JMHAA) in memory and honor of the late Richard E. Thompson, affectionately known as “Mr. T”, to assist students at Harlan Community Academy. He was a former Assistant Principal at Harlan High School and served on the Board of Directors of the JMHAA as an advisor and Membership Chair.
The purpose of this fund is to allow individuals and organizations an opportunity to contribute, through JMHAA, to the ongoing programs and projects of Harlan Community Academy. The funds will be used for the basic and essential needs of the students, (i.e., supplies, materials, text books, equipment, activities that engage students directly, such as woodshop, arts, technical training, athletics, etc). They will also be used for short term financial assistance, i.e., scholarships, graduation fees, etc.
The use of these funds will be authorized and dispensed by a majority vote of the Board of Directors of the JMHAA.
Coach Sherman & Jeanette Howard Athletic Fund
The Coach Sherman Howard Athletic Fund was established on January 25, 2020 by the John M. Harlan High School Alumni Association, NFP, (JMHAA) in memory and honor of the late Sherman Howard, to assist the athletic department and student athletes at Harlan Community Academy.
The purpose of this fund is to allow individuals and organizations an opportunity to contribute, through JMHAA, to the ongoing athletic programs and projects of Harlan Community Academy. The funds will be used for the essential and basic needs of the students related to athletics, (i.e., helmets, practice jerseys, supplies, equipment, meals, transportation, etc.). They will also be used for short term financial assistance, i.e., scholarships, etc.
The use of these funds will be authorized and dispensed by a majority vote of the Board of Directors of the JMHAA.
M.L. Jones Scholarship Fund
The ML Jones Scholarship was established by Margaret Simmons, an inspirational figure who defied the odds stacked against her. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood and raised by a teenage mother, Margaret faced numerous challenges. However, her determination and resilience propelled her forward she was amongst the inaugural 1961 graduating class of John Marshall Harlan high school.
Attending Harlan High School marked the beginning of Margaret's journey. Despite the obstacles she faced, she became the first in her family to attend and graduate from college. This achievement was not only a personal triumph but also a testament to her unwavering dedication to education. She went on to obtain her Master of Education at Illinois State, as well as a Masters of School Leadership at Concordia University.
After completing her own education, Margaret embarked on a remarkable career as a high school English teacher in the Chicago Public Schools system. For over 30 years, she passionately imparted knowledge and inspired countless students to reach for their dreams, just as she had.
The ML Jones Scholarship is named in honor of Margaret's mother, Mary Louise Jones, who believed in her potential and supported her throughout her educational journey. Margaret established this scholarship in 2019 with the hope of providing opportunities for students facing similar circumstances to pursue higher education and achieve their aspirations. Through this scholarship, Margaret's legacy of resilience, determination, and commitment to education lives on, empowering future generations to overcome adversity and reach for the stars.
Though Margaret passed away in 2022, the John Marshall Harlan Alumni Association is proud to support the Simmons Family in their efforts to continue the legacy of Margaret Simmons vision to support the financial needs of a graduate of Harlan Community Academy.