In the 2026 summer, we welcomed hundreds of pre-college students from across the U.S. and around the world to our pre-college programs. Through both in-person and virtual experiences, students pursued academic interests and prepared for future college success. We are excited to highlight some of their accomplishments.
Student Excellence Awards
The Student Excellence Award is presented each summer to a small group of students in recognition of their commitment to our core program values of academic success, community, and college readiness. Students are chosen based on their excellence in course work, engagement in program activities, and dedication to building community with peers, staff, and faculty.
This year's recipients of the Student Excellence Award are:
- Michelle Huang
- Yelin Nam
Leading with Purpose Awards
During the Leading with Purpose Workshop, students explored what it means to lead with intention, collaboration, and impact. Through reflection and interactive activities, participants considered their own leadership strengths and identified ways to grow as effective leaders. Our Leading with Purpose Awards were presented to recognize students who demonstrated a growth mindset, inclusive leadership, and outstanding leadership in action. These students exemplified the creativity, confidence, and commitment that help strengthen their schools and communities.
Growth Mindset
- Teddy Shroff
- Alex Kim
- Marea Elking
Inclusive Leadership
- Jasmine Edelstein
- Valerie Waturuocha
- Caleb Paik
Best Demonstration of Leadership
- Laila Noble
- Sofia Zakarneh
- Caroline Mamah
Photo Contest Winner
As our in-person program attendees explore the WashU campus and St. Louis community, we invite them to capture special moments and submit them to our annual Photo Contest. The winning photo, included below, was submitted by Tedric Shao.
Student Advisory and Committee Members
We also want to extend a thank you to students who served on our summer Student Advisory Group, Sunshine Committee and Cross-Cultural Connections Committee. Through their roles, these students provided invaluable feedback, support, and assessment of the program experience.
Student Advisory Group
- Henry Amberg
- Naomi Miller
- Yelin Nam
Sunshine Committee
- Sonia Brown
- Mariana Devarie
- Revathy Chadalavada
Cross-Cultural Connections Committee
- Chandini Shah
- Lingyi Ye
- Yaoqun Li
- Isabella Alexandrou
