The Jake Nelson Achiever Award is strengthening urban education and honoring a truly special man.

​

Jake Nelson was a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend to many. He was also a fierce competitor in football, basketball, baseball and golf, and loved to hunt and spend time in the outdoors. Above all, he was a true follower of Jesus. His Christian faith, as well as spending time with family, friends, and his dogs, was always of the upmost importance to him. As a product of both the Lutheran educational system and urban schools, Jake was excited to follow a calling into the business world, joining his family in the restaurant business. However, in November 2020, Jake was called home to be with his Savior forever. The Center for Urban Education Ministries established The Jake Nelson Achiever Award in his loving memory. 

The Jake Nelson Achiever Award honors select 8th graders attending an urban school, who perform academically and behaviorally at a high level, and plan to attend a Lutheran High School. The amount of the award can range from $1,000-$4,000.