The Merrill Noon Optimist have chosen Jacob Novitch as the January Youth Optimist of the month. Jacob was nominated by school counselor Ms. Kasie Holt. Ms. Holt commented, “Jacob has integrated himself in many parts of our community through his extracurricular activities and volunteering. Anybody that knows Jacob could say that he is a trustworthy, reliable, and good humored person who is always supportive of those around him. He is always a pleasure to talk to and his positive attitude is an immensely admirable asset. Jacob is ranked at the top of his class and demonstrates tremendous effort with everything he puts his mind to. He is always accepting of the opportunity to challenge himself. This is shown by the rigorous course loads he has taken at MHS. In addition to his academic experience, Jacob has maintained an active membership in a variety of activities.”
Some of the school activities that Jacob has participated in are National Honor Society, Earth Club, Octagon Club, Skills USA, Math League, Varsity Cross Country, Link Crew and Senior Class Officer. Jacob is the secretary for Octagon Club and National Honor Society. He has also received the Team Exemplary Award for Cross Country.
Jacob is involved in many community activities, including Big Brother Big Sisters, Barnes Creek Buccaneers 4-H Club, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, and Wausau Nordic United Cross Country Ski Team. He also participated in a three-week service trip to Ouzinkie, Alaska.
Following high school graduation, Jacob plans to attend either Michigan Technological University or the University of Notre Dame to major in Environmental Engineering. He is the son of Dan and Kristen Novitch.