Our award cycle opens annually in January to nominations. The information below spells out our nomination process and timing and links you to important forms and related requirements.

NOMINATION: JANUARY 1 TO MARCH 1

Principals, college counselors, and leaders of community-based programs nominate eligible students via a brief online nomination form. We encourage nominators to submit detailed responses, and to apply early to allow their nominee ample time to complete her application. Nominators may submit more than one student from their school or organization. We will name more than one student from a school or organization under special circumstances. Please review our eligibility requirements before submitting a nomination.

NOMINEE’S APPLICATION: JANUARY 1 TO MARCH 15

We will reach out to nominated students and invite them to respond to four brief writing prompts. Nominees must submit their responses by March 15 to be considered. No transcript or financial information is requested.

FINALISTS SELECTION: APRIL TO MAY

The selection committee reviews all nominations and applications to determine a finalist pool. Nominees who have not been selected as finalists are notified at this time.

FINALISTs INTERVIEWS: APRIL TO MAY

Finalists participate in a one-hour in-person interview. Money for travel via public transportation is provided. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are holding interviews virtually.

Awardee Announcements: MAY

Five recipients are named in May.
Meet our past recipients.