The America250 Nevada Commission is now accepting applications for its 2026 Civic Leader Student Award and Civic Leader Educator Award, with a deadline of Saturday, May 9. Eight $2,500 scholarships remain available for Nevada high school seniors, along with grants recognizing educators who demonstrate excellence in civics education and community leadership.
As part of the statewide America250 Nevada celebration, the program supports the next generation of leaders by investing in civics education across Nevada. Two student scholarships have already been awarded, with eight additional $2,500 scholarships to be distributed to eligible graduating seniors.
Two of this year’s recipients include Elle Evans of Incline High School in Incline Village and Miley Nobles of Canyon Springs High School in Las Vegas. Evans plans to use her scholarship to continue her education with a focus on civic engagement and public service, building on her experience in debate, research and community service to better understand and address systemic issues impacting Nevada communities. Nobles hopes to use her scholarship to pursue higher education while expanding her community service efforts, continuing to support underserved youth and inspire others to take an active role in giving back.
“Miley and Elle represent exactly what the Civic Student Leader Award & Scholarship was created to celebrate — young Nevadans who don’t wait to be handed a role in democracy, but go out and build one,” said Christine Hull, executive director of the Nevada Center for Civic Engagement. “From the streets of Las Vegas to the state capital, these two students have turned their civic education into real impact for real people. We are proud to recognize them as Nevada’s next generation of civic leaders.”
“The future of Nevada is in the hands of young leaders who step up, speak out and serve their communities,” said Brenda Scolari, director of the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, which is leading the America250 Nevada effort. “Through these awards, we are proud to recognize students who are actively shaping their communities and preparing to lead the next chapter of our state’s story.”
The 2026 Civic Leader Student Award honors graduating high school seniors who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to civic engagement. Recipients will receive a $2,500 scholarship toward their post-secondary education, along with a certificate or plaque recognizing their excellence in civics education.
By recognizing and empowering students who embrace civics, America250 Nevada is helping to foster community engagement, critical thinking and leadership skills among the next generation of Nevada leaders.
In addition to student scholarships, America250 Nevada will recognize educators through the Civic Leader Educator Award, which honors teachers who go above and beyond to promote civics education in their classrooms and communities. Award recipients will receive a $1,776 classroom or professional development grant, along with a certificate or plaque recognizing their leadership.
“Great teachers do more than teach lessons — they shape the citizens of tomorrow,” said Scolari. “By supporting educators who are dedicated to this work, we are helping to ensure Nevada’s future is built on active citizenship, strong communities and an engaged public.”
The awards are part of a broader effort in partnership with the Nevada Department of Education and the Center for Civic Excellence to expand and strengthen civics education statewide. Through the Nevada School of Civic Excellence program, America250 Nevada aims to increase awareness of the Nevada Seal of Civics, support schools advancing civic learning and provide resources for students pursuing continued education.
Students, educators and families are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and submit applications by midnight on Saturday, May 9 at America250Nevada.org.
America250 Nevada is a nonpartisan, statewide initiative running through July 4, 2026, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States while promoting civic engagement, education and community participation across Nevada.
More information about programs and participation opportunities is available at America250Nevada.org. Information about the national America250 initiative can be found at www.america250.org.
About America250 Nevada
America250 Nevada is the state of Nevada’s official effort aligned with the national America250 initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The initiative celebrates the nation’s founding by recognizing the diverse contributions of Nevadans while promoting civic education and engagement statewide. More information is available at America250Nevada.org.
About America250
America250 is a nonpartisan, nationwide initiative working to engage every American in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The effort encourages reflection on the nation’s history, recognition of its people, and communities, and conversations about the future Americans want to create. More information is available at www.america250.org.
