Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce reveals finalists for 2026 Young Women of Distinction Scholarship Awards across the region

Rochester, New York – A new generation of leaders is beginning to take shape across the Finger Lakes region, as the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce has unveiled the finalists for its 2026 Young Women of Distinction Scholarship Awards.

Now in its 26th year, the program continues to highlight the achievements of senior high school girls who have already begun making meaningful contributions in their schools and communities. Organized under the Chamber’s Women’s Council initiative, the scholarships are built on a simple but powerful belief—that the young women showing promise today are the same individuals who will guide the region forward tomorrow.

This year’s list of finalists reflects a wide geographic spread and a diverse set of accomplishments, bringing together students from urban, suburban, and rural schools alike. The 15 finalists include Annalecia Benner of Geneseo Central High School, Haven Benz of Midlakes High School, and Jazmarie Cruz Rivera of Edison Career and Technology School. Also recognized are Natalie Esposito and Maren Freece, both from Churchville Chili High School, alongside Katie Falk of Gates Chili High School.

The list continues with Brooklyn Jamison of The Harley School, Harper Kuehne of Eastridge High School, and Nadia Lewis from World of Inquiry High School. Representing Midlakes High School once again is Yamilet Perez-Velazquez, while Sabrina Reyda of Our Lady of Mercy and Bridget Ripstein of Alexander Central School also earned spots among the finalists.

Rounding out the group are Mia Rountree from East Rochester High School, Lilah Sickles of Canandaigua Academy, and Laura Wood of Livonia High School—each bringing her own story of perseverance, leadership, and ambition.

Read also: Fiscal impact analysis and housing study continue to shape long term planning decisions in the Town

While their backgrounds may differ, the thread connecting these young women is unmistakable. Each has demonstrated a strong commitment not only to academic success but also to leadership and community involvement. From organizing local initiatives to excelling in the classroom, they have already begun to leave their mark.

The selection process, organizers say, was anything but easy this year.

“Congratulations to this year’s finalists – fifteen young women who are leading with excellence and creating a bright future for our shared region,” said Susan George, Events Director at Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce. “This year, all of our applications from throughout the region were excellent and showcased the innovative, resilient, and collaborative ways they are already having an impact on their communities. We are proud to present these annual scholarship awards again this year and help uplift each of these finalists for long-term future success.”

Her words reflect the tone of this year’s competition—one defined not by a lack of talent, but by an abundance of it. According to organizers, the applications highlighted not just achievements, but also character, determination, and a willingness to step up when it matters most.

The program itself draws inspiration from the well-known ATHENA Awards, adopting a similar focus on leadership and service. It seeks to identify young women who go beyond expectations—those who not only excel individually but also lift others along the way.

Winners will be selected across four categories, ensuring representation from different parts of the region. One recipient will be chosen from the Rochester City School District, while others will represent Monroe County–East, Monroe County–West, and the eight surrounding counties that make up the broader Finger Lakes area.

The announcement of the scholarship recipients is scheduled for Monday, May 4, when finalists, families, educators, and community leaders will gather for a formal ceremony. The event is expected to celebrate not only the winners but also the shared accomplishments of all 15 finalists.

Read also: Speech teacher at Dr. David and Ruth Anderson Academy School No. 16 earns Golden Apple Award for life changing work with students

In the meantime, the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce is continuing to rally support for the program. Corporate sponsorships and tax-deductible donations remain open, with proceeds going directly toward supporting these students and expanding opportunities for future participants. Registration for the ceremony is also underway, signaling strong community interest in the event.

Beyond the awards themselves, the initiative serves a larger purpose. It sends a clear message that leadership, resilience, and community engagement are worth recognizing—and that investing in young people is, ultimately, an investment in the region’s future.

As anticipation builds ahead of the May ceremony, one thing is already certain: regardless of who takes home the scholarships, the future looks bright in Rochester and beyond.