A Moment to Shine: Joshua Jibu Celebrated for Leadership, Excellence & Community Spirit
- Moses Wyatt
- Oct 20
- 4 min read
By Levi Lee | October 16, 2025
The energy inside Gloria Willis Middle School was contagious this week as classmates, educators, and community partners filled the classroom to celebrate 8th grader Joshua Jibu, the newest recipient of the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award.
With more than 30 students and eight engaged community adults in attendance, this was more than a school moment — it was a celebration of leadership, excellence, and the power of being seen.
A Moment That Mattered
“I believe it meant a lot for the student to be recognized in front of his class,” shared Daniel Soptic, Wyandotte County Sheriff and award presenter. His words captured the atmosphere perfectly. From the moment Joshua’s name was announced, the classroom erupted in cheers, a clear sign of the respect and admiration his peers have for him.
Community partner MK Givens (Eastside Innovation) added, “All the students gave full attention to the presentation, and Joshua kept receiving nice gifts even after the trophy was given.”
And perhaps the most touching reaction came from Principal Secretary and nominator Vanessa Eberra:
“What stood out today was the student’s genuine surprise and sense of honor — it was a truly special moment. The classroom was fully engaged and respectful, and I could feel the excitement and inspiration ripple through the room.”
Why Joshua Was Chosen
Joshua was nominated for his academic excellence, leadership, and the example he sets for his peers. He consistently demonstrates the core values represented by the J.E.G.N.A. acronym: Justice, Empowerment, Growth, Nurturing, and Advocacy.
From excelling in his studies to making thoughtful behavioral choices, Joshua stands out as a student who embodies “Panther Pride” daily. His positive attitude and commitment to doing the right thing make him a natural leader among his classmates.
“Joshua’s character, commitment to learning, and leadership make him an outstanding candidate for this award,” Ms. Eberra said. “He truly reflects what the J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award is all about.”
A Celebration of Excellence
The presentation begun with a warm welcome from Award Coordinator Coach Mo, followed by a heartfelt recognition speech from Sheriff Soptic.
Joshua received:
The official J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week trophy
T-shirts for both him and Ms. Eberra courtesy of Kansas City Kansas Schools Foundation for Excellence
Gift cards from The Merc Co+op
Sonic Drive-In Drink Coupins
The Big Fish Bar & Grill Free Meal
A $15 Stockpile Any Stock Gift Card
E-book ‘From Teen to Millionaire: A Guide For Young Investors” by Chris Dunlap of Nu Wall Street
These awards are intentionally designed not just to celebrate the student, but also to provide tools for economic empowerment and financial literacy. Both Joshua and his nominator were invited to attend an upcoming financial education workshop powered by Eastside Innovation.
“To see the reaction of his classmates cheering for Joshua further shows me it empowers and motivates both the recipient and the students watching the presentation,” Coach Mo said. “These positive recognitions show our youth that adults see them, they matter, and we care about their success.”
Promoting Leadership, Confidence & Community
Every adult in attendance rated the award’s positive influence on students a 5 out of 5. The impact is clear: these presentations build confidence, encourage leadership, promote peer respect, and strengthen community-school partnerships.
Givens noted, “This kiddo is one of five siblings, and they’re all accomplished — but today, he got his moment to shine.”
Soptic added, “It promotes everything — leadership, self-confidence, peer respect, and motivation.”
How to Nominate a Student
The J.E.G.N.A. Klub Student of the Week Award is open to students from kindergarten through college across Kansas City Kansas Public Schools. Educators, staff, or community members can nominate a student who exemplifies the J.E.G.N.A. values:
Justice — Doing what’s right, even when no one is watching
Empowerment — Lifting others and embracing personal agency
Growth — Striving for academic and personal excellence
Nurturing — Caring for and supporting peers and the school community
Advocacy — Using voice and action to make a difference
To nominate a student*, visit https://www.thejegnaklub.org and click Nominate Student of the Week, complete the online nomination form and submit. Selected students receive public recognition, community partner gifts, financial empowerment tools, and the chance to inspire their peers.
Community Partnerships That Make It Possible
A big shout-out to the community partners who make this celebration possible:
* Kansas City Kansas Schools Foundation for Excellence
* Eastside Innovation
* Sonic Drive-In
* The Big Fish Bar & Grill
* The Merc Co+op
* Nu Wall Street
Their support helps turn recognition into real opportunities for growth, leadership, and economic empowerment.
A Final Word
Joshua’s award presentation was more than an event — it was a moment of empowerment. As his classmates clapped and cheered, the message was clear: leadership, excellence, and kindness are worth celebrating.
“These moments of acknowledgment can have a lasting impact on their confidence and growth,” Ms. Eberra said.
Congratulations once again to Joshua Jibu, J.E.G.N.A. Klub’s Student of the Week Award Winner!
“This award isn’t just a moment of recognition — it’s a reminder that our youth are powerful, capable, and worthy of celebration.” – Coach Mo
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Wish I was there I'm glad everything went well in the student seems like he enjoyed it a lot