Press Release: Calling All Students – the 2026 Luminari Award Is Now Accepting Applications
PITTSBURGH, PA – October 28, 2025: Luminari is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Luminari Award, a prestigious merit-based scholarship for students in grades 7–11 across the Pittsburgh region. One outstanding applicant will be named the 2026 Luminari Award Scholar and receive a full scholarship (valued at over $1,200) to attend the acclaimed I Want to be an Ambassador! camp, a transformative, weeklong journey into the world of diplomacy, leadership, and global citizenship.
Camp Dates: June 9-17, 2026
- Pittsburgh: June 9–12, 2026
- Washington, D.C.: June 15–17, 2026
What Makes This Camp Exceptional?
The I Want to be an Ambassador! camp is more than just a summer experience, it’s a launchpad 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 talked with Ambassadors and diplomats while visiting the embassies of Mexico, Poland and Ukraine. They also toured the U.S. Capitol and other monuments – just a few examples of the unforgettable access and insight this program offers.
From the 2025 Luminari Scholar
“As I reflect on the past month, my experience at the Luminary Ambassador camp stands out. It helped me explore and deepen my interests in diplomacy and public policy and introduced me to skills like public speaking, cross-cultural communication, and body language.”
— Mira Frowley, Class of 2025 and Luminari Award Scholar
Apply in Three Easy Steps!
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, 2025 — either by email to luminari@luminari.org or by mail to:
Luminari, P.O. Box 81603, Pittsburgh, PA 15217
The winning scholar will be announced in early March.
Ready to Lead? Apply Today!
We can’t wait to read your essays and welcome our new Luminari Award Scholar to our vibrant camp community this June!
For more details, 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 — inspiring tomorrow’s leaders, today.
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