Jeremiah Travis, now 10, first captured attention in 2019 when, at just 5 years old, his exceptional drumming skills earned him a full college scholarship. Hailing from Greensburg, Louisiana, Jeremiah, then a student at St. Helena Early Learning Center, was awarded a scholarship to Alcorn State University in Mississippi, set to commence in 2032. This prestigious offer, given on November 5, 2019, recognized his remarkable talent on the snare drum, which he played as part of the band at St. Helena College and Career Academy.
Jeremiah’s mother, Nicole Jackson, who also has two daughters, is incredibly proud of her son’s achievements. She reflects on how Jeremiah’s passion for drumming began at a young age when he received a drum that played the ABCs for Christmas. “He never stopped playing with it,” Nicole said, noting that his enthusiasm for drumming has only grown over the years. Regardless of whether he continues with drumming, Nicole hopes he remains committed to his musical journey.
Jeremiah’s 16-year-old cousin, Kenya Brooks, who is also a drummer, has been a guiding mentor for him. Brandon Dorsey, the percussion instructor at St. Helena and an Alcorn State alumnus, immediately saw Jeremiah’s potential. “He’s going to be special,” Dorsey remarked, highlighting that Jeremiah’s dedication and natural talent set him apart. “The key to success is practice, practice, practice,” and Jeremiah certainly embodies that principle.
Nicole Jackson attests to her son’s dedication, noting that their home is constantly filled with the sound of drumming. “We’ve got drumsticks everywhere,” she laughed, describing how items like pots, pans, and even the car headrest have become makeshift drums. Jeremiah’s rhythmic enthusiasm even extends to tapping out beats on church pews.
Jeremiah’s talent extends beyond his home, as he frequently performs with the band at St. Helena Hawks ballgames and special events. “He’s the Energizer Bunny when it comes to drums,” Dorsey said, admiring Jeremiah’s boundless energy and passion for music. Although college is years away, the scholarship serves as a powerful incentive for Jeremiah to continue developing his skills.
While the exact amount of the scholarship has not been disclosed, it will undoubtedly cover a significant portion of Jeremiah’s future educational expenses. “We wanted to honor Jeremiah for his achievements in percussion,” said Everson Martin, assistant professor and band director at Alcorn State. He expressed hope that Jeremiah will continue his musical journey and realize the potential many already see in him.
Jeremiah’s drumming has already made him a local celebrity. Nicole recalls a recent encounter at Walmart where an employee recognized Jeremiah by name. “Omigod, I thought that was him,” the woman exclaimed. As Jeremiah prepares for his next performance at a Christmas concert, showcasing holiday classics like “Jingle Bells” and “The Little Drummer Boy,” his community will continue to cheer him on, pa rum pum pum pum and all.
