2026 Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Award

2026 Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Award Honorees

Meet this year’s outstanding Youth Achievement Award honorees—students whose perseverance, resilience, leadership, and achievements reflect the remarkable potential of young people with learning and attention differences.

These students have not only navigated their own challenges, but have also made a meaningful impact in their schools, communities, and beyond. We are honored to celebrate them at our 2026 Denim & Sparkles Spring Benefit.

Kirtan Patel

Texas | Winner of the 2026 Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Award

From birth, Kirtan faced severe speech and motor delays, followed by years of difficulty in school environments that did not yet understand how his mind worked. With the right support, structured routines, and strong self-advocacy, he transformed those challenges into confidence and success.

Kirtan has used his experience with ADHD and anxiety to support other neurodivergent students and families, leading community seminars on 504 plans and IEPs, creating ADHD-focused video content, and engaging in global conversations about neurodiversity. His leadership, insight, and commitment to helping others embody the spirit of this award.

Annabella Perk

Texas | Special Recognition Winner

Annabella has faced dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and apraxia of speech with extraordinary determination. After being underestimated academically, she went on to excel in honors and dual-credit coursework, achieve a 4.0+ GPA, and score in the 97th percentile in math.

She has also transformed her love of cooking into leadership and service—earning statewide recognition, founding her school’s Culinary Club, and helping turn a neglected pantry into a thriving student-run resource for families in need. Her story is a powerful example of resilience, advocacy, and purpose.

Ethan Levenstien

New York | Junior Award Winner

Ethan has navigated ADHD while facing personal and social challenges with resilience and determination. Rather than allowing those experiences to define him, he has channeled his creativity, empathy, and energy into meaningful service and leadership.

He co-founded the “Little Lev Library,” helping collect and distribute thousands of books to children and families, and launched a Positivity Project to support youth well-being. With more than 400 hours of community service and a strong commitment to inclusion, Ethan exemplifies compassion, heart, and initiative.

Elizabeth Gray

Virginia | Honorable Mention

Elizabeth has navigated ADHD and a written language learning disability with remarkable discipline, insight, and perseverance. Over the years, she has developed systems that help her manage daily responsibilities, stay organized, and meet high expectations with determination and accountability.

Her resilience extends far beyond her own academic success. Elizabeth has served as president of her school’s debate club, earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and led a large-scale service project addressing period poverty. Her leadership, problem-solving, and dedication to others make her an inspiring honoree.

Ashley Kelly

Connecticut | Honorable Mention

Ashley’s curiosity and love of learning have always been unmistakable, even as she faced the daily challenges of dyslexia. With support, persistence, and a hands-on approach to learning, she transformed frustration into confidence and discovery.

Today, Ashley is a strong student, advocate, athlete, and leader. She has earned induction into the National Honor Society, served on the Connecticut Department of Education Youth Advisory Board, led school organizations, and excelled in volunteer service and equestrian competition. Her story reflects determination, curiosity, and meaningful impact.

Christiana Garcia

California | Honorable Mention

Christiana has navigated multiple learning differences—including dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, an auditory processing disorder, and apraxia of speech—while overcoming significant challenges in traditional academic environments. Through a creative and personalized approach to learning, she transformed frustration into confidence, using hands-on strategies to make complex concepts meaningful and accessible.

She has since become a dedicated leader and advocate. Christiana has delivered a TEDx talk, risen to team captain in mock trial—earning international recognition—and contributes to the global mock trial community through case writing and her podcast, Mock Talk. Through her work as a karate instructor and co-founder of Ambassadors of Tomorrow, she continues to mentor and empower others.

Celebrate These Students at Denim & Sparkles

Join us on Thursday, May 14th at 6:00 PM as we honor these remarkable students at our 2026 Spring Benefit.

Buy Tickets Now

About the Youth Achievement Awards

Each year, Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities recognizes students from all over the country who have achieved great success despite or because of their learning challenges. The Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of young people with LD and ADHD who have done amazing things, making a lasting impact on their schools and communities.

Applications for the 2026 awards are now closed.

2026 Fred J. Epstein
Youth Achievement Awards

Applications have closed for the 2026 Youth Achievement Awards.

Each year, Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities® recognizes students from all over the country who have achieved great success despite or because of their learning challenges. The Fred J. Epstein Youth Achievement Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of young people with LD and ADHD who have done amazing things, making a lasting impact on their schools and communities. Many are poised to go on to bigger and better achievements in college and workplaces across America.

The awards will be given to high school students 19 or younger who have demonstrated initiative, talent and determination resulting in a notable accomplishment in any field—including art, music, science, math, athletics or community service.  Honorable Mentions will also be awarded.

The awards will be presented at the annual Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities Benefit at a time and place to be determined.  Transportation and hotel accommodations will be provided for the winning student and their parents.

Please contact programs@smartkidswithld.org with any questions.

Deadline for submission: January 20, 2026.

 


2025 Youth Achievement
Award Honoree
Tauren Del Rio