2026 Award Recipients

Congratulations to our 2026 award recipients!

Community Impact Awards and Legacy Leaders

Community Impact Award scholarships range from $500 to $5,000 for leadership, making improvements to the campus, or being involved in club activities. These awards are a way to recognize and appreciate the “change makers” on the RIT campus. The awards are administered or selected by the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement unless otherwise mentioned.

Excellence in Student Life Awards

Excellence in Student Life Awards have honored undergraduate students who balance academic success and engagement. Students with a 3.4 GPA or higher are invited to apply for this award and must demonstrate significant leadership in RIT-related activities.

2026 Recipients:

• Viola Maksuti
• Vlera Zeqiri

Legacy Leader Awards

This award, sponsored by Campus Life, is presented to students who have shown great leadership and are leaving a legacy behind at RIT or in the Rochester community. All applicants must identify as a woman or non-binary to qualify, and they must be graduating in 2024.

2026 Recipients:

• Viola Maksuti
• Vlera Zeqiri

Outstanding Service Award for International Students

This award recognizes international students who have made special contributions to life at RIT and the greater Rochester community, including superior service and effort in academics, student clubs and organizations, and external community groups. Full-time undergraduate and graduate international students at RIT’s main campus are eligible for this award.