JIM NEDNATIVE

Treva Gambrell

By Abby Gililland and Addie McClendon

May 31, 1971, in the well community of Brownwood, Texas, a leader was born. She was born to her loving parents Larry and Karen Pemberton, and today we all know her as the Jim Ned High School Principal, Ms. Treva Gambrell. Little did we know, the Jim Ned community would forever be changed.

Treva was born in the town of Brownwood, Texas and was raised there until just before the start of her fifth grade year. Her father, Larry Pemberton was an employee of Guiberson Oil Tools, the trade that brought his family to the Jim Ned area. Larry then worked as the Road Supervisor for Taylor County Precinct Four. This was the career that saw him through to retirement. Treva’s mother, Karen Pemberton, filled many roles in the Jim Ned school district upon their move to this area. Karen worked at Jim Ned for 26 years, first as the high school secretary, and later the position of secretary for the superintendent. In an interview, Treva stated, “My family was very close and I had the best parents anyone could ask for.”

Growing up, Treva and her brother Jake Pemberton, were very involved in the Jim Ned chapter of FFA and stock shows. Showing animals was one of her favorite hobbies, and it took her across the state. “I absolutely loved showing animals. We always had several pigs and steers each year,” she commented. Once she was in high school, Treva was drawn to the agricultural classes that were offered, and she even considered pursuing a degree in agriculture. “I had a passion for agriculture, and actually had plans at one time to become an Ag teacher,” Treva stated. Upon her graduation from Jim Ned High School in 1989, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree from McMurry University, and then went on to earn her Master of Education degree from Sul Ross University. Treva taught Science for many years at various places before moving back to the Jim Ned Valley. She taught here for 13 years, then applied for the position of Jim Ned High School Principal. She was awarded the position and is now in her sixth year as principal. According to Treva, “It is truly a dream to be the principal in the school I grew up in and love so much.”

Treva was brought back to the area by a desire to teach and raise her children in the Jim Ned Valley. Her son Wyatt Gambrell graduated in 2014, and her daughter Laramie graduated in 2016. Laramie followed in her mother’s footsteps, through a passion for agriculture and school spirit. Laramie continued on her mother’s school spirit by serving as Dave the Brave, just as her mother had for two years in her high school career.

Jim Ned has seen many new improvements and lots of growth over the years, and it is still continuing to grow. Treva graduated in a class of 49 students, with a rough total of 200 students enrolled in the high school. Comparatively, the high school currently has about 450 students in the high school, with 130 students in the larger classes and 100 students in the smaller classes. Treva, in a well-said statement, accurately describes the reason behind Jim Ned’s growth. “This has always been a great place to be and raise a family. The truth of this is evident as we continue to see enrollment growth every year.”

Many people find inspiration in big things, such as a celebrity or a well known artist. For Treva, her inspiration comes from her mother in the book of poems that was gifted to her. Treva states, “It has something for every mood. It also has the ability to change your mood.” The large collection of poems was given to Treva 35 years ago and holds the memories of her late mother. “Anytime I read my poetry book, I think of her.” Treva commented. Many valuable life lessons can be taught by simply looking at the little gifts in life, such as Treva’s book of poems.

Jim Ned is blessed to have such a devoted and involved leader like Treva Gambrell. Many in the community - as well as the school - look to her for advice and guidance. She is one of the key figures in our community and works hard to make Jim Ned a place to call home. Roll Tribe!