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It was inspirational afternoon at Heroes Stadium as former graduate Jake Cherry was inducted to the NEISD Wall of Heroes at a special ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 9. A plaque featuring the high school football stand-out was added to the wall because of the impact he has made on the lives of current and future generations.
Cherry graduated in 1957 from what was then North East High School – later renamed MacArthur High School. After graduation, he served in the military and then went on to become a successful businessman and community leader. His dedication to the District was demonstrated when he and his alumni organization presented a “Remembrances” book to the Board of Trustees in 2015. The book serves as a legacy full of pictures, articles and personal stories about the District from 1951 to 1958.
He currently leads the San Antonio Rescue Mission, a faith-based, nonprofit organization that provides year-round assistance to homeless men. Guests are provided with meals, showers, clean clothes, chapel service and sleeping quarters. Since 1975, San Antonio Rescue Mission has served more than 360,000 men. Cherry’s faithful service and leadership abilities make him a driving force behind the Mission’s success and an exceptional example for future generations.
“For me, he is also a genuine model of a 360-degree education, academics plus extracurricular activities to serve the whole child,” said Dr. Brian G. Gottardy, Superintendent of Schools. “Something I strongly believe in as Superintendent. All students should be involved in something.”
Cherry is part of the District’s Tradition of Excellence. His placement on the wall will forever pay homage to those early days of North East High School and the District.
Heroes Stadium received its name to honor and praise members of the District and community who made a positive impact. The “Wall of Heroes” provides the opportunity to enshrine noteworthy individuals with ties to NEISD with the hope of inspiring others.
