Meet Ava Shinaver, a sophomore at Middleburgh Jr./Sr. High School (NY) and “an exceptional Sweetheart & Hero—someone who embodies the mission of uplifting, inspiring, and empowering those around her,” according to her nominator. Ava leads with heart and purpose, and she has an extraordinary ability to be uplifting for people of all sorts at school and work, on teams, and in her community. “Her compassion is contagious, and her dedication to spreading HOPE is nothing short of inspiring,” her nominator said. Ava also takes action, leads with empathy, and empowers others with her kindness and her understanding of the power of the human spirit, which she uses to create a ripple effect of positivity. “In a world that needs more heroes, Ava stands out as someone who makes an undeniable impact,” her nominator said. “She represents everything Sweethearts & Heroes stand for—purpose, compassion, and the drive to make a difference.”

Football. Basketball. Baseball. Ryan Colburn plays all three, and is a leader on all those teams in both “skills and impact,” his nominator said. However, the Plattsburgh High School (NY) sophomore’s skills and impact are also felt off the fields and courts. “Ryan is one of the most kind, selfless and respectful students I teach,” his nominator said. “He helps his peers, greets his teachers, is honest, and is patient with his classmates. He has overcome personal struggles with his positivity and is always willing to participate with humor and maturity. He is a great kid!”

If that smile and those eyes make ya melt, wait until you learn more about OESJ Elementary School (NY) second-grader Brenna Burdziakowski! “Brenna is a ray of sunshine in my classroom,” her teacher and nominator said. “She makes smiles bloom everywhere she goes with her gentle ways, kind heart, and willingness to help others.” Brenna Jumps Into Action when she sees a fellow student struggling, and she’s full of warm compliments for lifting others’ spirits when necessary. “She shines, leading by example and drawing others to her light as she does her best and brings out the best in others around her,” her nominator said.

As Sweethearts & Heroes developed its BRAVE Youth Leadership System at Enosburg Falls High School (VT) during this school year, Ava Walker Jumped Into Action, assumed a leadership role and ensured the program operated smoothly — and effectively. A junior, Ava also helps run the school’s Student-Athlete Council and is active in Ms. Vermont Teen USA. “Ava is a dedicated leader in school and embodies school spirit,” her nominator said. “She is an ally in school and makes everyone feel welcome.”

Last year, Ticonderoga (NY) High School Senior Quinn Lang started an after-school music club for elementary students. Her connection to those students began with Sweethearts & Heroes’ BRAVE Youth Leadership System, and she’s been an integral part of it. Engaged, thoughtful, and driven, Quinn is “a wonderful student,” her nominator said, and “she rarely turns down an opportunity to be involved in an activity.” Quinn also takes her leadership roles seriously. She looks out for others, speaks up when something is amiss, and seems comfortable and confident with being Quinn Lang — key for her work with younger students. “Simply put, Quinn is the best,” her nominator said. “Quinn loves school — probably more than any student I’ve had in my career. Her eagerness to be involved and make our school a better place is refreshing.”

Whether she’s helping, listening, or being there for a friend, Analia Richardson “is a student who looks out for others,” her nominator said. Analia is an eighth-grader at Stafford Middle School in Plattsburgh, NY, and she has led a Circle. She also helped a third-grade teacher in her district design a Circle. “Analia is resilient,” her nominator said. “Life hasn’t been easy for her, and she has her moments where she expresses her true feelings. She will think and talk things out when she is ready. This has helped her help others. She is going places, because she loves to try new things. She’s good in her academics, and she stays close with friends while making new ones.”

With a focus on suicide prevention and mental health, the Eastport-South Manor Jr.-Sr. High School (NY) Natural Helpers Club recognizes that students often turn to their peers for support and guidance. Students are trained to be “natural helpers” and are equipped with skills to listen, offer support, and connect their peers with resources they might need. ESM junior Ryan Storch is a key member of the school’s Natural Helpers Club, which helps with Circles as part of the district’s Sweethearts & Heroes initiative with freshmen. “In those Circles, Ryan has the ability to speak from experience to our current 9th graders,” said ESM Assistant Principal Dan Franchese. “In terms of taking Action, Ryan showed his initiative during our annual Stuff-A-School project, where he tried to fundraise for the community with his own donations process.”

Eleventh-grader Maeve Gayer never hesitates to share her story with freshmen during Sweethearts & Heroes Circles at Eastport-South Manor Jr.-Sr. High School (NY). Her refreshing confidence even sparked her to write an original play for theater class. Maeve helps with Circles at ESM as a member of the Natural Helpers Club, which connects students for support and guidance with a focus on mental health and suicide. “Maeve really is committed to our school culture and being a model student that others can look up to,” said ESM Assistant Principal Dan Franchese. “She goes above and beyond understanding how her story can help provide HOPE for others in our school building, and she is the very definition of a Sweetheart & Hero.”

A “bucket-filler” is someone who consistently shows kindness, empathy and positive behavior as a way to “fill” other people’s emotional “buckets” with good feelings and support. At Momot Elementary School in Plattsburgh, NY, fifth-grader Ella Conners is a bucket-filler “in every sense of the word,” according to her nominator. Teachers and students alike feel as though Ella effortlessly includes them in her world. She just makes you feel special. “Ella is one of the kindest students I’ver ever meet in my 16 years of teaching,” her nominator said. “She truly is a special kid and deserving of recognition!”

“Doing good deeds makes me feel good and proud of myself.” Those are the words of today’s Student Spotlight superhero, Heaven Douglas. Heaven is a sixth-grader at Gouverneur Middle School (NY). Always thinking of others and her community, Heaven has raised funds and supplies for her local animal shelter. Additionally, Heaven and her grandmother strive to complete three annual fundraisers for their community. Last year, they made and bagged meals for local truck drivers. “Heaven Douglas is a super sweet and kind person,” said Jenna Richards, one of Heaven’s fellow sixth-graders. “She’s always trying to find some way to make everyone included and happy. When you are with her, you are never going to leave without a smile on your face.”

A teacher at Lyndon Institute (VT) describes junior Charley Villeneuve as “a chameleon of a person” who can “blend with anyone, and no one is above her. She sees value in everyone, and she wants you to not only be the best you can be, but your true self.” Need a leader? Charley is there. Need comfort and consolation? Charley’s got you. Things going a bit too far in the teasing arena? Charley will intervene with conversation, and Charley’s the one who invites a first-year student to her table at lunch, so that the newcomer doesn’t feel alone. A talented artist, Charley is one of the school’s GO Vikes Arts Reporters, and she nailed the role of Wednesday Addams in the school’s production of “The Addams Family Musical” this year. “Her performance off stage was even better!” her nominator said. “Charley encouraged her fellow classmates to be more positive when they disagreed, and she always praises them for their hard work and accomplishments.”

Brady Pelky’s nomination began with this: “Starting school is typically a time of excitement and joy, but for Brady and his family, it is often a source of fear and uncertainty due to his life-threatening allergies. These allergies present constant challenges that require ongoing vigilance and awareness. Over time, Brady and his family have learned invaluable lessons about food safety, protocols for travel, and the necessary precautions for athletic events, all while working to ensure his safety.” Brady is a sophomore at Crown Point Central School (NY), and he lives life with an emergency kit. Everyday events such as a birthday party pose life-threatening situations for Brady, and his family, friends and school community all work together to ensure his safety. Despite challenges, Brady inspires. He is an athlete, avid traveler and active in extracurricular activities.

Olivia Garay is a “bright ray of sunshine,” her nominator said. “I have never seen someone who embodies the selfless act of standing up for people the way that Olivia does.” Olivia is a freshman in the Waterford-Halfmoon Union Free School District (NY), and she advocates for people that struggle to stand up for themselves. She has even called out her own friends for being mean. “I have seen Olivia lose her whole friend group and sit by herself at lunch, because she could not be a part of their negative actions,” her nominator said. “It hurt her terribly, but she knew she was making the right decision. Don’t worry! She has a really great group of friends now!” Olivia is a strong young woman chock full of integrity. Her motto is: “Be proud of who you are, and don’t be afraid to show your true colors.”

According to a physical education teacher in the Waterford-Halfmoon Union Free School District (NY), Logan Sheehan is the “perfect candidate” for Student Spotlight because he is “awesome with students with severe disabilities. They love playing with Logan.” Logan is a junior who goes out of his way to make all students feel included, whether they’re in the classroom or in the hallway, but he has a soft spot for students with disabilities: He makes an extra effort for them. “As the life skills teacher, not many typical students will interact with my students,” Logan’s nominator said. “Logan goes out of his way daily to say ‘hi’ to them and give them fist bumps.”

During a social-emotional learning session at Maple Street School in Vermont—when the lesson focused on being an upstander, not a bystander—third-grader Blair Combs quoted former First Lady Michelle Obama. “When they go low,” Blair declared, “we go high.” Blair is kind to everyone. She understands that each person has a different learning style, and she shows patience to anyone that needs help understanding a concept. “She keeps a positive mindset in the face of obstacles and does not give up,” her nominator said. “She embodies HOPE (Hold On, Possibilities Exist) because she always lifts up others by recognizing individual strengths.” Her positive, exceptional attitude helps others feel valued. “Blair has the insight and courage to lead our third grade class as a true sweetheart and hero,” her nominator said.

Landon Major’s nominator calls him “the epitome of integrity and kindness.” Landon is in 8th grade in the OESJ CSD (NY), and no matter what others are doing around him, or how others treat “the outcasts,” he stays respectful and kind to all students and school staff members. “He is just an overall good person — the type of good that is difficult to put into words, because no words do justice. I pray that all kids will come to have a heart like Landon. He gives HOPE (Hold On, Possibilities Exist) that there is kindness in this world.” Landon Major, you are a force for positive change, so step into the Student Spotlight!

Noah Bates’ sister said, “I hope one day he can teach my son how to play sports, be a kind soul, and always know how proud I am of them both.” His friend said, “Noah’s a one-of-a-kind guy. He’s a true friend. Even when times are tough, or when the world’s against you, Noah will always be there.” And his Mom said, “I couldn’t be prouder of my son. He is my sunshine.” Gouverneur Middle School (NY) sixth-grader Noah Bates is “amazing,” his nominator said. He participates in fundraisers (all year ‘round), plays sports (all year ‘round), helps with his niece and nephew — two babies just two months apart — and he rescues animals. “He helps his friends and teachers in school, outside, and on the field,” his nominator said. “He also helps people in times of need, whether he donates or buys something to help someone out. He goes the extra mile!”

Some people have an inherent, infectious energy; Abigail Henley is one of them. The Plattsburgh High School junior’s passion is working with children. “She is an excellent influence on them,” said Abigail’s nominator, who has known Abigail for two years. Abigail regularly participates in activities inside and outside of school that give her opportunities to work with young children in her community, from giving presentations in schools to offering ski lessons. “She’s a natural leader and a compassionate person, and she’s eager to be a positive influence on those around her,” her nominator said. “She has faced adversity in her life head-on and tries to serve as an inspiration to others.”

Just what makes Jezabella Fernandez a Sweetheart & Hero? “Her dedication to helping the younger kids in the district with the ABC’s of how to deal with a bully and her infectious, positive attitude with the children are amazing to see as a teacher,” her nominator said. Jezabella is a sophomore at Brewster High School (NY), and when she joined the school’s Student Teacher Empathy Program this year, she didn’t just STEP — she leapt! Now, she’s a leader at teaching elementary students about bullying. “She will definitely be one of the Sweethearts & Heroes role modes for years to come in Brewster, NY,” her nominator said.

Reese Welch is a Girl Scout, and she lives up to the Girl Scout motto (“Be prepared.”) and slogan (“Do a good turn daily.”). Reese is only a second-grader at Boonville Elementary School (NY), but she has already honed a superhero's ability to make others feel better with just a smile. “Reese is a great friend, always showing courtesy and consideration towards others as well as being respectful and kind,” her nominator said. “She is passionate about art as well as taking care of the planet.”

Before attending Ticonderoga High School (NY), Gracie Wells was a student at a small Catholic school in town. The transition to a larger school can challenge many students, but Gracie embraced it. And she took the initiative, with no prompts from friends or family. Gracie, a junior, is “one of those rare students who consistently does the right thing, regardless of who is watching,” her nominator said. “She possesses a strong sense of self and takes pride in who she is.” Gracie is committed to her academics and extracurricular activities, and she’s consistently kind. She immersed herself in her first Sweethearts & Heroes Circle training as a freshman, even though most of the older students were not part of her social circle, and she has broken from her comfort zone with her involvement. “It has been a pleasure to witness Gracie’s growth over the years,” her nominator said. “Her interactions with younger students are always marked by a heartfelt desire to support and uplift them. Her gentle, genuine approach makes a lasting impact on everyone she encounters.”

Seventh-grader Addison Peterman leads the Junior High Cheerleading Squad at Sullivan County Jr./Sr. High School in Pennsylvania, and when a fellow cheerleader fell ill and had to miss school for a lengthy period of time, Addison Jumped Into Action. She enlisted help from fellow cheerleaders and classmates and organized a welcome-back surprise when the absent cheerleader returned from medical leave: Her locker was decorated. “Addi wanted to brighten her spirits,” her nominator said, “and that she did!” Addison is a leader off the court, too. She’s focused, thoughtful and goal-oriented. “She thinks about and includes others all around her,” her nominator said. “I was super proud of Addi when she rallied everyone together to help her teammate feel welcomed and missed after a short medical leave.”

She improves the world with quiet strength and tremendous compassion, she bounces back from adversity, and she spreads HOPE (Hold On, Possibilities Exist) with empathy toward others. Every. Single. Day. Kylie Stolting, a junior at Chazy Central Rural School (NY) is a “dedicated force of kindness,” her nominator said. “Kylie goes out of her way to help support others in all grades, elementary and high school alike.” Kylie is an Eagle Buddy to a 4th grader, as well as K-6 certified with the Sweethearts & Heroes’ Student Teacher Empathy Program (STEP). She willingly shares kindness — as well as her skills — with students in grades K-6. “Her level of commitment to her word is impeccable and noticed,” her nominator said. “Kylie is a true sweetheart!”

“It’s OK to be scared, but don’t let it hold you back.” Wise words from Addy Bikowitz, a Peru High School (NY) junior. “Addy embodies the spirit of a true leader, welcoming everyone with open arms, regardless of background or appearance,” her nominator said. “She’s simply a good person.” Addy balances academics with a “genuine desire to creating a welcoming environment, and she “brings the brightness and fire that Peru High School needs.” Whether participating in academics or extracurriculars, Addy peppers her attitude with dedication and respect. She’s an agent of school change, too. “Addy has a vision for the path of success without even realizing it,” her nominator said. “She sticks to her moral code even when it's tough and owns up to her mistakes.”

Meet Amaya Ater, a freshman at AuSable Valley High School (NY). Amaya is ending the start of an important four years. She also started her journey with Sweethearts & Heroes this year and recently led Circle for her class, while her teacher was out of the classroom. “Her email afterward gave me goosebumps,” her teacher said. Here it is: "Words can't describe how well the circle went. We did a new game we've never done before and I brought dunkin' donuts for everyone and then we jumped into questions! I ended up using most of my own and my last question made the whole circle 10x better.....We were able to talk about these things, all cry together, and realize how much we really have each other's backs. It felt like a dream to be honest. We stayed 5 minutes over the bell. Throughout the rest of the day and this weekend I have been getting texts and emails asking to hold another circle.....[I am proud of them] for being strong enough to open up and cry and be emotionally vulnerable the way they all were, male or female.” You can’t make this stuff up.

At Sullivan County Jr./Sr. High School (PA), Bentley Schilling became distinct after he saw a Sweethearts & Heroes presentation and attended a small-group session. “Shortly after, I noticed a switch in his mindset,” his nominator said. “Bentley has always been an amazing athlete and leader, but this sparked something in him. After the assembly, I noticed more mature behavior from Bentley. Then, one day, something incredible happened.” When a new student was struggling with classwork, Bentley Jumped Into Action. He quietly rose from his seat, kneeled beside the student and asked thought-provoking questions to guide his peer along. “I watched from the back of the room in awe,” Bentley’s nominator recalled. “He didn't bring attention to himself at all during this, and it was clear he just wanted to help his classmate succeed and feel supported and included, since he was new and clearly struggling. This was honestly one of the most genuine things I've witnessed as a teacher of eight years. I am proud of the young man Bentley is becoming and can't wait to see how he continues to impact our small, rural school district.”