As part of his JROTC service learning requirements at Carson Long Military Academy, senior cadet Christopher Johnson was tasked with planning and implementing a major project. He decided to organize a blood drive. Yesterday at Carson Long, after months of coordinating with Carson Long faculty, staff, and students – and representatives from the American Red Cross – CDT Johnson’s project proved highly successful. There were 29 people registered and a total of 23 units of blood donated, exceeding the project goal of 20 units by 15 percent.

CDT Johnson, from Wyncote, PA, serves as the student battalion’s S-5 (communications) officer, and he represents his fellow students on the Academy’s Communications Committee. All students at Carson Long Military Academy donate their time, talent, and energy for the community. Some projects are traditional services to the community, such as shoveling snow from the sidewalks of elderly neighbors and adopting roads to pick up litter. Some, such as CDT Johnson’s blood drive, are higher-level efforts that require planning and multiple levels of communication – and evaluation and follow-up.

Founded in 1836, Carson Long Military Academy is the nation’s oldest private boarding school to provide military leadership training. Carson Long enrolls boys in grades 6-12 for full boarding, five-day boarding, and day school programs. Approximately 30 percent of the student population is international, making for a uniquely cross-cultural campus. Carson Long is a federally tax exempt nonprofit organization, EIN 23-1352359, and an accredited member of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Carson Long is also a member of the Pennsylvania and National Associations of Independent Schools and the Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States. Carson Long is governed by a volunteer board of trustees and led by President & CEO, Mr. David Pearson.