Now Accepting Applications for the 2026 Luminari Award
Our annual search for Pittsburgh’s next young luminary is officially underway, and applications are now open for the 2026 Luminari Award, a prestigious merit-based scholarship for students in grades 7–11. One exceptional student will be selected as the 2026 Luminari Award Scholar and receive a full scholarship (valued at over $1,200) to attend our signature I Want to be an Ambassador! camp, a transformative, weeklong journey into diplomacy and global citizenship.
Camp Dates: June 9–17, 2026
- Pittsburgh: June 9–12
- Washington, D.C.: June 15–17
What Makes This Camp Exceptional?
The I Want to be an Ambassador! camp is more than a summer experience, it’s a launch pad for young changemakers. Over seven immersive days, students will:
- Participate in hands-on simulations of global negotiations and crisis response
- Meet with diplomats, business leaders, and cultural ambassadors
- Explore embassies, museums, and monuments in Washington, D.C.
- Practice public speaking, cultural humility, and peaceful compromise
- Share meals that celebrate global cuisine what we call “gastrodiplomacy”
Last year’s campers visited the embassies of Mexico, Poland, and Ukraine, toured the U.S. Capitol, and engaged in meaningful conversations with international leaders.
From our 2025 Luminari Scholar
“This camp was beautiful to experience and helped me learn confidence and understanding. I am so grateful to Luminari for giving these wonderful learning opportunities to Pittsburgh’s students. I was honored to receive the Luminari Award and hope to continue my study of global diplomacy in the future.”
— Mira, age 15, Winchester Thurston School
How to Apply
Students can apply in three simple steps:
- Write a one-page essay explaining your interest in diplomacy and how the Ambassador camp could impact your life.
- Complete and sign the application (parent/guardian signature required).
- Submit your materials by February 15, 2026 via email to luminari@luminari.org or by mail to: Luminari, P.O. Box 81603, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
The winning scholar will be announced in mid March.
Ready to Apply?
We can’t wait to read your essays and welcome our next Luminari Award Scholar into our vibrant camp community this June. For more information, visit our website and click on the I Want to be an Ambassador! program, or reach out to us at luminari@luminari.org.
About Luminari
Luminari is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people through innovative learning experiences. Our programs spark creativity, leadership, and civic engagement by nurturing tomorrow’s leaders, today.
