Homegrown & Harvard-Bound
/TISD graduate John Thomas Borowitz will attend Harvard University
By Lisa Porterfield Thompson
John Thomas Borowitz is headed to Harvard, a fact which surprises none and delights all who know this hardworking, humble young man.
“As someone who is passionate about learning and eager to challenge myself, I knew that attending Harvard would provide me with a world-class education and access to some of the best resources and opportunities available,” John Thomas said. “Additionally, Harvard’s economics program is renowned for its rigor, depth, and breadth. I believe that studying economics at Harvard will equip me with the tools and knowledge necessary to make a meaningful impact in this field.”
John Thomas, born to Julie and John Borowitz, was the valedictorian of Texas High School’s Class of 2023. He served as the President of the THS student council, as well as the president of the Texas Association of Student Councils, a role in which he led almost 1,300 student councils throughout the state and spearheaded the effort to raise over $300,000 for cancer research. He was also selected as one of two delegates from Texas to participate in the United States Senate Youth Program in Washington, D.C. He was a member of TISD’s Imagine 2026 Strategic Planning Committee, which formulated the successful bond election of last year. He also earned the rank of Eagle Scout and managed the boys’ basketball team at Texas High. He scored a perfect 36 on the ACT.
John Thomas was a member of TISD’s Imagine 2026 Strategic Planning Committee.
When asked about his successes, John Thomas points to his parents for raising him to excel. “My parents have always been tough on me, but it has been in the best possible way,” he said. “They have instilled in me a strong work ethic, a sense of discipline, and a commitment to excellence. From a young age, they challenged me to do my best, both academically and in my extracurricular activities.”
“No matter where I go or what I do, I will always have Texarkana on my back.”
John Thomas’ mom, Julie, however, said that she and her husband cannot take credit for raising two gifted children. John Thomas’ older sister, Hollan, is a student at TCU and equally impressive in her academic aptitude and commitment to community service.
John Thomas earned the rank of Eagle Scout.
“It was nothing that John and I did,” Julie said. “They are how God gave them to us, and we have guided and directed them to the best of our ability with [God’s] help.”
John Thomas admitted that a sibling rivalry with his sister helped to push him forward in many aspects of life. “She has always been my competition, both academically and in our shared extracurricular interests,” he said. “This rivalry has pushed me to be my best, and I am grateful for it.”
John Thomas gives much credit to his parents, John and Julie, for raising him to excel.
Looking ahead, John Thomas’ aspirations are lofty—though seemingly realistic, given all the accolades and accomplishments he has already stacked up. “In the short term, I am interested in exploring the field of market trading and gaining experience in that industry,” he said. He plans to pursue an MBA in real estate at another Ivy League after completing his undergraduate degree. Eventually, he hopes to enter into a political career, after reaching a few goals in the finance industry.
John Thomas credits his aunt, Texarkana native Betsy Lavender, for contributing to his interests in politics. Betsy has worked in senior positions on multiple campaigns for U.S. presidents, and John Thomas says her passion is contagious.
“Growing up, I was always aware of my aunt’s involvement in politics, and it was inspiring to see someone so committed to making a positive impact in the world,” he said. “As I got older, I began to have more conversations with her about her experiences, the campaigns she worked on, and the political process in general. Through these conversations, I gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of civic engagement and the power of politics to effect change. My aunt’s example has shown me that working in politics can be a meaningful and rewarding way to make a difference in the world. Her dedication to the political process has inspired me to pursue my own interest in this field and to consider the many ways I might be able to contribute to the greater good. I am grateful to have such a positive role model in my life and look forward to exploring the world of politics further in the future.”
Though Julie and John are undoubtedly proud of their children’s academic and extracurricular achievements, Julie emphasized that the true markers of success for her children are yet to come.
From a young age, John Thomas demonstrated exceptional academic aptitude and leadership skills.
“Success comes in many forms,” she said, “and we as parents should celebrate the diverse ways that our children can be successful. My goal as a parent is to see my children grow into happy adults. It sounds generic and simple-minded, but I want them to be happy with who they are and what they have, and if that comes to fruition, then I will deem my parenting a success.”
Wherever life takes him, John Thomas is determined not to forget where he came from and the opportunities afforded to him in his youth. “No matter where I go or what I do, I will always have Texarkana on my back,” he said.