The Great Gladden’s Amazing Ascent

From the heart of the Gaza to the top of his graduating class, 17-year-old Dennis Gladden has a tragic backstory: orphaned as an infant, he was raised by his grandparents on Far West Street, a hive of gang activity.

But despite growing up in a stew of bad influences, and without his parents, Gladden found a way to rise above, and focus on his academic career, soaring to the second best finish in his high school class.

Courtney Menzies visited him at his home today and has the inspiring story of the unassuming Greatness of Dennis Gladden.

Gladden's family hopes that he will be able to get the financial assistance needed to further his education.