OUR STORY

Built on a belief that opportunity should not depend on circumstance.

The MJS Foundation’s mission is to provide economic assistance to high school students who are attempting to become productive, self-sufficient members of society.

Currently, the Foundation’s primary function is in awarding the MJS Turnaround Achievement Scholarship.

who we are

The Michael J. Santanna, Jr. (MJS) Achievement Foundation was established in 2017 in honor of Michael J. Santanna Jr., who passed away in August 2008. Mike Santanna was a hard-working entrepreneur who acknowledged and respected the hard work and perseverance of those who wanted to help themselves. Mike took pride in employing individuals trying to get back on their feet and took them under his wing to help them turn their lives around.


Currently, the Foundation’s primary function is in awarding the MJS Turnaround Achievement Scholarship. The scholarship recognizes graduating seniors from each of Dauphin County’s senior high schools who have turned their lives or their situations around and are now pursuing a post-secondary education.

Class of 2025 scholars in graduation attire

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MISSION

Leadership & Board Members

Every scholarship awarded, every student supported, and every dollar raised reflects the personal commitment of the people who give their time and expertise to this foundation.

Alissa Kern

Founder & Executive Director

Alissa founded the MJS Achievement Foundation in 2017 in honor of her father, Michael J Santanna.  Her and her husband, Andrew wanted to honor his legacy of helping individuals who want to help themselves get back on their feet.  Alissa loves that the recipients of the MJS Turnaround Achievement award took their situations into their own hands and were determined to improve their own lives.

Outside of the MJS Achievement Foundation, Alissa is a full-time mom of three kids.  She enjoys giving back to her community and being engaged in her local church and faith-based women's groups through leadership and participation. 


Andrew Kern
Board Chair

Andrew was part of founding the MJS Achievement Foundation in 2007 with his wife, Alissa Kern.  He owns his own financial advising firm, Clelan and Company.  Andrew loves giving back through the MJS Achievement Foundation, volunteering as a middle school leader at his church, being on the board of the JT Dorsey Foundation and coaching many of his children's sports teams.  The MJS Turnaround Achievement Scholarship perfectly fits Andrew's passions of helping children and supporting his local community.

Liana Freeland
Board Treasurer

Liana Freeland is a financial advisor with a passion for helping individuals and families make thoughtful financial decisions and plan for their futures. She brings experience in financial planning, client relationships, and financial stewardship to her role on the Michael J. Santanna Foundation Board.


 Liana is actively involved in reviewing scholarship requests and issuing scholarship payments, helping ensure that the Foundation’s resources are thoughtfully and responsibly distributed to support deserving students in pursuing their educational goals.


LIana is honored to serve the Foundation and contribute to its mission of providing meaningful educational opportunities and investing in the future of young people in the community.

Jim Horn
Board Secretary & Partnerships Director
Jim spearheads the foundation's educator outreach and school partnership programs, coordinating the nomination pipeline that identifies deserving students across Pennsylvania. With a background in corporate social responsibility, he has expanded donor relationships and event sponsorship significantly since joining in 2019.
Megan Luft
Board Secretary & Partnerships Director
Megan spearheads the foundation's educator outreach and school partnership programs, coordinating the nomination pipeline that identifies deserving students across Pennsylvania. With a background in corporate social responsibility, she has expanded donor relationships and event sponsorship significantly since joining in 2019.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

MJS Achievement Foundation Awarded $10,000

We are very humbled to have received $10,000 from AssetMark for winning their Community Inspiration Award. Watch the video coverage to learn more about our mission!

100% of proceeds go toward student scholarships and program operations. Join the growing community of supporters behind Pennsylvania's next generation of leaders.

MJS Achievement Foundation · Harrisburg, PA · 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization