The Lovis Foundation is honored to recognize the Class of 2026 recipients of the Lovis Extraordinary Student Award and Lovis Hero Award.
This year, 70 students from 25 states were selected for demonstrating exceptional kindness, resilience, compassion, leadership, service, and determination.
Our student awards were created to celebrate young people who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of others and in their communities. Unlike many traditional awards, there is no academic requirement. These recognitions exist to honor character, perseverance, inclusion, empathy, and impact.
This year’s recipients include students who:
• advocate for others
• mentor and encourage peers
• volunteer in their communities
• organize service projects
• create more inclusive spaces
• support children and families in need
• overcome extraordinary personal challenges with courage and resilience
Some of these students are navigating disabilities, loss, bullying, poverty, mental health struggles, family hardship, or challenges most people around them may never fully see. Yet they continue to show up for others in remarkable ways.
Others recognized needs and gaps in their communities and stepped forward to create change, choosing leadership, compassion, and action instead of waiting for someone else to help.
What we witness through these nominations is extraordinary humanity. These students are leading with empathy, courage, and compassion in ways many adults still aspire to. They remind all of us what it means to care for one another well.
To the Lovis Foundation Class of 2026: Thank you for the light you bring into the world. We are incredibly proud to celebrate you.