18 students. 18 stories. Unlimited potential.
Every school has students who stand out, not just because of what they achieve or their GPA, but because of the way they lead, serve, create, inspire and make their schools and communities better.
The EBR Schools Eighteen Under 18 Awards will celebrate 18 exceptional students who are making an impact today and daring to be great.
Timeline
09.08.2026
- Nominations Open
09.18.2026
- Nominations Close
10.2026
- Honorees Selected & Notified
TBD
- Eighteen Under 18 Recognition
Greatness can begin at any age!
Who will be the next Eighteen Under 18?
WHAT IS Eighteen Under 18?
The EBR Schools Eighteen Under 18 Awards recognize students who are making an extraordinary impact before they graduate high school.
We’re looking for students who demonstrate excellence in areas including academics, leadership, service, fine arts, athletics, character and more. The ideal honoree is a student whose actions are making their school, community or the world a better place.
Who can be nominated?
Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized?
Any student currently enrolled in EBR Schools who is 18 years old or younger at the time of the award is eligible. Click here to learn more.
Your Nomination Could Change How A Student Sees Their Future.
Think of a student who:
- Shows up for others
- Leads by example
- Has overcome obstacles
- Is achieving something extraordinary
- Makes their school better
- Gives back to their community
- Has a talent that deserves a spotlight
- Inspires the people around them
Our Grading Criteria
Leadership & Initiative / 20%
Has the student taken initiative, led others or demonstrated the ability to create positive change?
Achievement & Excellence / 20%
What has the student accomplished? Consider academic, athletic, artistic, career, entrepreneurial, technical or other achievements.
Character & Integrity / 20%
How does the student demonstrate responsibility, compassion, integrity, resilience and respect for others?
Community Impact & Service / 20%
How has the student contributed to their school, community or the lives of others?
Potential & Perseverance / 10%
Has the student demonstrated growth, resilience or the potential to make an even greater impact in the future?
Story & Overall Impact / 10%
What makes this student's story particularly compelling, meaningful or inspiring?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible?
Any student currently enrolled in an EBR School who is 18 years old or younger at the time of the nomination is eligible for consideration.
Students may be nominated based on accomplishments in academics, leadership, athletics, the arts, career and technical education, community service, entrepreneurship, advocacy, innovation or other areas in which they have demonstrated exceptional drive, initiative or impact.
2. What makes an EBR Eighteen Under 18 honoree?
We are looking for students who stand out not only for what they have accomplished but also for who they are and the impact they are making.
An ideal Eighteen Under 18 honoree is a student who has demonstrated:
- Leadership and initiative
- Academic achievement or exceptional talent
- Dedication and perseverance
- Character and integrity
- Service to others and the community
- Innovation, creativity or entrepreneurship
- A commitment to making a positive difference
Honorees may come from a wide range of backgrounds, interests and experiences. We want the Eighteen Under 18 class to reflect the incredible diversity of talent and potential found across EBR Schools.
3. How do I submit a nomination?
Nominations must be submitted through the official EBR Schools Eighteen Under 18 online nomination form by the published deadline. Nominations received after the deadline will not be considered.
4. Who can nominate a student?
Students may be nominated by anyone. Students are also permitted to nominate themselves.
5. What makes a strong nomination?
The strongest nominations tell a story.
Rather than simply listing awards or activities, explain what makes the student exceptional.
Consider:
- What has this student accomplished?
- How have they overcome challenges or demonstrated perseverance?
- How have they impacted their school or community?
- What leadership have they demonstrated?
- What makes this student someone others look up to?
Specific examples, personal stories and meaningful testimonials can help the selection committee understand the student beyond a résumé.
6. Is it important to have multiple nominations?
No, one nomination is all that is required. The Eighteen Under 18 Awards are not a popularity contest.
Students are selected based on the strength of their accomplishments, character, leadership, service and overall impact.
One thoughtful, detailed nomination can be more meaningful than multiple nominations that provide little additional information.
7. Can more than one student from the same school be nominated?
Yes. There is no limit to the number of students who may be nominated from an individual school.
The goal is to identify exceptional students from across EBR Schools, representing different schools, grade levels, interests, talents and backgrounds.
8. How are the Eighteen Under 18 honorees selected?
Nominations will be reviewed by a designated selection committee.
The committee will consider the information provided in each nomination, including the student’s accomplishments, leadership, character, service, initiative and demonstrated impact.
The goal is to select a diverse group of students who represent the many ways EBR students are daring to be great.
9. Can a student be selected as an Eighteen Under 18 more than once?
No. The Eighteen Under 18 Awards are intended to be a one-time recognition.
10. What is required of the students who are selected?
Students selected as Eighteen Under 18 honorees will be expected to participate in the recognition process, which may include:
- Completing a student profile or Q&A by the specified deadline
- Attending the 18 Under 18 photoshoot
- Participating in promotional or recognition materials
If chosen, students and their families will receive additional information with photoshoot details and Q&A deadlines. If a student is unable to participate in promotional materials, another student may be selected in their place.
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