Annabella Frazier

Annabella leads as a committed community volunteer, promoting anti-bullying and supporting those in need. She actively participates in Sources of Strength, cross country, volleyball, and the BRAVE anti-bullying program. She promotes anti-bullying through presentations, book readings, and has sent over 65 packages with positive messages to all 50 states. Annabella organized and donated more than 50 backpacks filled with school supplies to foster care. Passionate about addressing bullying, encouraging volunteerism, and inspiring positive change, she regularly bakes for the local Food Bank and Bread Line, always finding new ways to make a difference in her community.
  • Home Town Fairbanks
  • School District North Star
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Arthur Frank

Arthur Frank, president of Craig High School, brings positivity and kindness to his school and community. He’s dedicated to supporting school activities, finding new ways to fund sports, and inspiring others with his drive and generosity. Outside of school, Arthur volunteers regularly, helps with community projects, and even runs his own wood-selling business. Known for his hard work and empathy, he often visits local elders to see if they need firewood, groceries, or any help. Arthur’s dedication and compassion make him a respected and valued member of the Craig community.
  • Home Town Hollis
  • School District Craig City School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Bailee Olson

Bailee teaches and models Yupik dance to youth and community members, leading performances at most community events. She fishes and preserves salmon in the summer, hunts moose and Spruce hens, and gathers plants and berries. Bailee shares her harvests generously with Elders, family, and the community. In 2023, she represented Bristol Bay at the Elders and Youth Conference. She works to preserve traditional Yupik dance and subsistence living, passing on vital knowledge. Her efforts help her community stay connected to their culture and access essential resources.
  • Home Town Dillingham
  • School District Dillingham City School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Braxton Peters

As senior student council president, Braxton is a friendly and hardworking leader who sets a positive tone for his peers in Aleknagik. His dedication shines through his volunteer work, from helping with school fundraisers to motivating his teammates as co-captain of the basketball team. Beyond school, he proudly wears the title of “uncle,” guiding his nieces and nephew with kindness and wisdom, and always making time to teach and play with them. Braxton’s influence as a role model inspires both his peers and family to strive for their best.
  • Home Town Dillingham
  • School District Southwest region schools
  • Award Category Role Model

Climate Defense League

This group of students has transformed their school’s approach to recycling, starting a program four years ago that continues to grow and inspire. Initially focused on paper and cardboard, they expanded to include plastic and aluminum, working with local waste management and the school district. They’ve set a strong example by placing recycling bins throughout the school, collecting weekly, and tracking the waste they divert from landfills. The students regularly update peers and staff about their progress, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. Older students mentor younger ones, ensuring the program’s future even as they graduate. Their efforts not only reduce landfill waste but make recycling a standard practice for the school and beyond.

  • Home Town Fairbanks
  • School District Fairbanks North Star School District
  • Award Category Visionary, Role Model

Dimond Robotics

Dimond Robotics, a student-led team from Dimond High School, is transforming STEM access in Anchorage through The Lynx Initiative (TLI). Recognizing disparities in STEM opportunities, they developed TLI to make hands-on learning and robotics teams accessible to underserved youth. Hunter and Kanna, the driving force behind TLI, spent months researching STEM access gaps and started programs at Mountain View Elementary to reach kids who might not otherwise have this opportunity. Their efforts have grown from one community team to three, mentoring younger students and securing funding for sustainability. These programs not only teach robotics but also promote teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional resilience. The success of their mentorship includes Mountain View Elementary receiving the Breakthrough Award for their “Stuck Duck” project. Hunter and Kanna’s leadership and dedication are empowering Anchorage youth and reshaping the future of STEM access in the community.

  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Innovator, Role Model

Dominic Blair

Dominic Blair took on a leading role as narrator in the SHI theater workshop, held over spring break in Ketchikan, where he inspired others by showing pride in his Alaska Native identity. Throughout the production, Dominic exemplified a strong work ethic and encouraged his peers, offering support to those struggling with lines or performance nerves. This play was a special opportunity to uplift Alaska Native youth by bringing a Tsimshian story to life on stage, and Dominic was a positive role model, motivating others to do their best. His dedication helped create a supportive atmosphere, celebrating indigenous excellence and leadership.
  • Home Town Ketchikan
  • School District Ketchikan Gateway Borough School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Dreamer, Role Model

Dustty Heckel

Dustty is a dedicated and active member of his community. As a camp den leader and welding instructor with Scouts of America, he has helped Scouts achieve merit badges while fostering their growth and skills. His volunteer efforts span numerous organizations, including The Salvation Army Operation Santa, the Fur Rondy Royalty Pageant, and the American Heart Association-Alaska.

Dustty’s willingness to help, no matter the task, has been evident since he was young. His commitment and enthusiasm make him a valued contributor to every project he undertakes. Through his work, Dustty continues to make a meaningful impact on those around him.

  • Home Town EAGLE RIVER
  • School District Healey school district
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Emmerson Kapp

Emmerson Kapp, a junior at Soldotna High School, leads with passion as the KPBSD Board of Education Student Representative. She represents students from 42 schools, gathering their input and sharing updates with the board. At meetings, she delivers reports and casts an advisory vote, ensuring student voices influence decisions.

Emmerson inspires peers to speak at board meetings, amplifying their perspectives. Her efforts promote collaboration, inclusivity, and student engagement. Through her advocacy, Emmerson is transforming her district to better meet students’ needs.

  • Home Town Soldotna
  • School District Kenai Peninsula Borough School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Girl Scout Troop 436

Girl Scout Troop 436 is tackling microplastic pollution by advocating for a ban on plastic glitter in the Anchorage School District. Through their BioGlitter Initiative, the girls are raising awareness about the harmful effects of traditional glitter on health and the environment. They’ve taken action by creating a survey for art teachers, launching an informative website, starting a petition, and producing a compelling video. Each member plays a key role in the project, showcasing teamwork and leadership. Their goal is to present their findings to the school board and promote biodegradable glitter as an eco-friendly alternative. Troop 436’s efforts inspire others to make small changes that lead to big environmental impacts.

  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage
  • Award Category Discovery

Holly Hogan

Holly is a remarkable 16-year-old who has stepped up to care for her family during tough times. Instead of working to save for driving school, she stays home to look after her younger sister, ensuring her family stays together and stable. Holly supports anyone who needs a friend and gives selflessly. After her father’s car accident, she prepared his meals, checked on him daily, and managed the groceries and cooking. With dreams of becoming a massage therapist and chiropractor, Holly is already well on her way to a life of caring for others.
  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Phoenix, Role Model

Hunter Hayden

Hunter, president of Dimond Robotics, has expanded STEM access for Anchorage youth. He has volunteered over 120 hours this year, mentoring multiple FIRST LEGO League teams. Hunter co-founded The Lynx Initiative (TLI) to create robotics programs for underserved students. As the youngest board member of the Alaska Museum of Science & Nature, he champions youth-led initiatives in STEM. His leadership helps Anchorage youth gain confidence and engage with STEM. Hunter’s work creates a supportive environment where students grow and realize their potential.
  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Innovator

Isabella Gunther-Chavez

Bella is known for her kind heart and caring nature. She lifts others up with encouraging words, a helping hand, or by listening. At South Anchorage High School, Bella serves as a student leader. She was Freshman Class Vice President and now serves as Commissioner of Community Service. Bella represents her peers on the Anchorage School District Student Advisory Board and the Executive Board as Public Relations Officer. Recently, she became a Youth Ambassador for the Equal Rights Commission, continuing her commitment to advocacy and service.

  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Role Model

Joshua Pak

Joshua is a dedicated youth leader and advocate. As the Student Advisory Board President for the Anchorage School District, he represents all students in the district. He also serves as Bar President of Anchorage Youth Court and Section 8 Representative on the National Federation of High Schools National Student Advisory Council. His impressive resume highlights his commitment to civic engagement and student representation across Anchorage and Alaska.

Joshua has been a long-standing member of the Spirit of Youth Teen Advisory Council. He approaches every project with ambition, compassion, and purpose. His leadership on youth-led initiatives amplifies student voices and drives meaningful change. Known for his kindness and integrity, Joshua inspires others while building strong connections within his community.

  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Josiah Jackson

Josiah has dedicated three summers to the Kake Alaska Youth Steward (AYS) crew as both a crew member and assistant leader. Since 2022, he has contributed to environmental restoration, ancestral land stewardship, and cultural projects. His work includes restoring fish habitats, building the first traditional shellfish garden in Southeast Alaska, and addressing invasive species. Josiah stands out for his commitment to supporting his team and community—uplifting others, assisting elders at gatherings, and making everyone feel included. His contributions to local food security, environmental preservation, and cultural continuity have made a meaningful impact on Kake.

  • Home Town Kake
  • School District Kake City Schools
  • Award Category Innovator, Discovery

Kanna Loer

Kanna is a dynamic youth leader and co-founder of The Lynx Initiative (TLI), which gives Anchorage middle school students early access to STEM programs. Through TLI, she helps young students explore science and technology. Kanna also supports environmental conservation, joining beach clean-ups with the Ocean Club and promoting sustainability with Dimond’s Green Effects. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines in her creation of 3D-printed items, which she sells to fund TLI. Kanna’s dedication to STEM, environmental advocacy, and fundraising shows her strong commitment to making a positive impact in her community.
  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Role Model, Discovery

Knud Larson

Knud is a dedicated volunteer who makes a profound impact on youth-led, trauma-informed projects at REACH 907. His work starts well before camp, as he prepares supplies and logistics, ensuring everything is ready for these critical programs. At camp, Knud connects directly with at-risk youth, offering support, guidance, and compassion. This summer, he even served as a mentor, helping young people find hope and build resilience. By building trust and showing genuine care, Knud empowers these youth to feel valued, helping to foster positive futures.

  • Home Town Chugiak
  • School District Anchorage School District (homeschooled)
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Matthew Wilson

Matthew Wilson is a passionate and determined young leader who brought the American Heart Challenge program to Colony Middle School, raising over $1,500 for life-saving heart research and education. Motivated by his father’s passing from heart disease in 2020, Matthew worked tirelessly as the liaison between his school and the American Heart Association, learning and promoting life-saving skills like Hands-Only CPR and the warning signs of stroke. Beyond coordinating the month-long challenge, he also organized and staffed a successful Italian Soda fundraiser during school track and field meets, showcasing his creativity and dedication. As a member of the National Junior Honor Society and the Colony Middle Tri-M Music Honor Society, Matthew continually seeks out service opportunities to support his Matsu Valley community. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to building a healthier, safer community make him an inspiring hero for hearts everywhere.

  • Home Town Palmer
  • School District MatSu Valley
  • Award Category Life Saver, Phoenix

Michael Michaud

Michael is a highly motivated youth with strong ties to Anchorage and Southeast Alaska. He actively participates in ANSEP, the CITC FabLab internship, and Civil Air Patrol. In Civil Air Patrol, he mentors new cadets, teaching leadership, character development, and fitness while advancing through the program. As Cadet Aerospace Education Officer, he finds creative ways to spark interest in STEM among his peers. Michael also planned and spoke at the Central Council Tlingit and Haida Youth Healing Summit. He worked with the Alaska Youth Stewards Program to promote cultural and environmental resilience. His dedication and leadership make him an outstanding role model.
  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Role Model

Mika Grubis

Mika is a dedicated high school student whose passion for helping others is evident in her impactful projects. As a freshman, she organized a month-long School Community Book Drive, collecting over 900 books for the Fairbanks Literacy Council to promote literacy and encourage community involvement. Mika handled every detail, from creating fliers to coordinating collections.

As a sophomore, Mika co-led the Sources of Strength Club and hosted a movie night fundraiser for the local Women’s Shelter. The event brought the community together, collecting essential items like hats and toiletries for women in need. Mika’s compassion and dedication make her a powerful advocate for positive change.

  • Home Town Fairbanks
  • School District FNSBSD
  • Award Category Humanitarian

Nikkeah Tikiun

Nikkeah is a dedicated and generous member of the Indigenous Club, where she actively engages in learning and sharing about various Indigenous cultures, languages, arts, and songs. Known for her positivity and willingness to support her peers, she embodies a strong work ethic and a commitment to her community. In the club, Nikkeah participates in important discussions on issues like Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, showing a deep understanding of the importance of awareness and education around this sensitive topic. Her dedication makes her an inspiring role model within the club and beyond.

  • Home Town Eagle river
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Role Model

Quinzee

Quinzee has volunteered over 100 hours with Challenge Alaska Adaptive Ski & Ride School, becoming a certified sit-ski instructor and inspiring friends to join. As the program’s most dedicated volunteer under 18, she focuses on student safety and confidence, helping them fit harnesses, ride the chairlift, and overcome fears. Her commitment grew even stronger after her brother’s recent accident left him with quadriplegic paralysis. Quinzee’s passion for adaptive recreation shines through her work, breaking down barriers and empowering people with disabilities to experience freedom and joy on the slopes.
  • Home Town anchorage
  • School District Anchorage School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Sarah Kim

Sarah Kim is the founder and facilitator of Music for Hearts, an organization that brings musically devout teens together to play instruments and sing at senior care centers and facilities. She is first year member of the Youth Alliance for a Healthier Alaska, where she engages full-heartedly with kindness and compassion and everything that she does. Her thoughtful guidance and tireless support of youth mental health in Alaska inspired her to invest her passion back into the community.

  • Home Town Anchorage
  • School District Anchorage
  • Award Category Humanitarian

STAR Team

The STAR Team, made up of grades 6-8, promotes mental health awareness and suicide prevention among middle school students. STAR stands for Saving Teens at Risk, and encourages students to Share, Tell, Ask, and Reach out when someone needs help. Throughout the year, the team presents suicide prevention slideshows in each homeroom, teaching students to recognize warning signs and seek help. Eighth-grade STAR members also give anti-bullying presentations to 5th graders to help them prepare for middle school. STAR students promote a drug-free lifestyle during Red Ribbon Week and set an example of positive citizenship for their peers.
  • Home Town Palmer
  • School District MSBSD
  • Award Category Life Saver

Teagann Smith

Teagann, now in her second term as student body president, has shown exceptional leadership by creating a more inclusive and supportive school environment. Her initiative to establish an on-campus weight room has given students and families in the community a much-needed space for fitness, especially valuable in their rural Alaskan village where fitness facilities are scarce. As varsity volleyball captain and a student taking college courses alongside high school, Teagann leads by example, balancing her commitments while encouraging her peers to excel. Through student government, she organizes community events that bring together people from all parts of the village, fostering a sense of belonging and lifting the morale of even the most remote members.

  • Home Town Port Alsworth
  • School District Lake & Peninsula School District
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model

Tikvah Olson

Tikvah Olson exemplifies dedication and compassion, spending five years supporting Alaska’s at-risk youth and families. Even as a camper, she helped prepare camps, organized logistics, and created welcoming spaces. Her care shines through her effort to bake a personal birthday cake for each of the 50 campers, ensuring every child feels valued and loved.

As a program graduate, Tikvah inspires young volunteers to take on leadership roles and make a difference. She contributes to programs like the Resilient Warriors Club and REACH 907, giving youth hope and strength. Her dream to lead these programs shows her passion and commitment to creating brighter futures for Alaska’s youth.

  • Home Town Palmer
  • School District Matsu Borough
  • Award Category Humanitarian, Role Model