AAACF Announces 2026 Young Citizens of the Year

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - EntSun -- The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) is proud to announce the 2026 Young Citizens of the Year, recognizing five outstanding students from across Washtenaw County who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service beyond the classroom.

Each year, this award honors students who are making a meaningful difference in their communities - whether through volunteerism, advocacy, mentorship, or grassroots initiatives that address local needs. This year's recipients exemplify the power of youth leadership and the impact of service rooted in purpose.

Selected from nominations submitted throughout the County, the 2026 honorees represent a diverse range of service efforts focused on strengthening communities across Washtenaw County. From fighting food insecurity and supporting literacy initiatives to mentoring youth and participating in community improvement efforts, their work reflects a shared commitment to helping others thrive.

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The 2026 Young Citizens of the Year honorees are:

• Jah'Niya Treadwell, Treadwell Learning Academy (Homeschool), Freshman
• Kayla Fu, Huron High School, Junior
• Genevieve Peale, Dexter High School, Senior
• Nicholas Caplea, Father Gabriel Richard High School, Senior
• Sydney Fletcher, Pioneer High School, Senior

Each recipient will receive a $4,500 scholarship to support their higher education, made possible by the Robert Bruce Dunlap Memorial Fund. The award program continues to honor the legacy of Robert and Connie Dunlap and their longstanding commitment to supporting young people and strengthening the Washtenaw County community.

Awardees were recognized publicly on May 10, 2026, and featured in interviews with MLive.

"At AAACF, we believe that investing in young people is essential to building a stronger future for our community," said Rev. Dr. Shannon Polk, President & CEO of AAACF. "These students demonstrate that one person's dedication to service can ripple across an entire community. By recognizing their contributions and supporting their futures, we are helping to plant the seeds for a stronger, more engaged Washtenaw County."

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The Young Citizens of the Year program reflects AAACF's broader commitment to supporting youth across Washtenaw County. Through initiatives like its Community Scholarship Program and Youth Council, the Foundation continues to invest in students by expanding access to education, leadership development, and opportunities for long-term impact - rooted in its S.E.E.D.S. framework.

About the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
The mission of the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation is to enrich the quality of life in Washtenaw County through its knowledgeable leadership, engaged grantmaking, and creative partnerships with donors to make philanthropic investments and build endowment. Learn more at aaacf.org.