1930
1933 is remembered as the year Franklin D. Roosevelt became President, banks closed, and Prohibition ended. It was also when the 16-year-old Joe Francamano had his first JA experience. The Willoughby House Settlement had invited Joe and several other members of Willoughby House to hear about Junior Achievement and the idea of starting a JA Company. Earl Moll sold 12 senior boys to start this real business and learn how business works. Joe’s first JA role was as the Treasurer of the “Ornamental Gift Shop.” In 1934, 20 JA Companies participated in a JA Conference, including exhibits of their own products. By 1937, 50 JA Companies were operating throughout New York City. Junior Achievement was slowly expanding throughout the Northeast and received requests from Colorado, Europe, South America, Hawaii, Canada, Alaska, and California. These accomplishments were reported in leading national publications – Reader’s Digest, Business Week, and The Literary Digest in October 1936 and February 1937.
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Award Winners
The JA Professional Staff Hall of Fame is awarded to former JA staff professionals whose long-term dedication, commitment, and exceptional accomplishments made a significant impact on the organization and created a foundation for the current organization. Laureates are role models and set standards of accomplishment and behavior to which current and future JA staff should aspire. The process is managed by the JA Staff Alumni Network.
A $2,000 scholarship is awarded to a JA Company Program student in recognition of his or her accomplishments, role in their JA Company, and entrepreneurial potential.
The Karl Flemke Award is given annually at the JA National Leadership Conference. This award goes to a first-time Junior Achievement president who has demonstrated an outstanding contribution to and achievement with the organization.
