2026 Spring Award Winners

Sullivan Givens is a student at Brunswick High School in Maryland with a passion for writing and storytelling. He joined the National English Honor Society to explore the world of literature, initially expecting a fun extracurricular experience, but soon discovered the many opportunities available through writing competitions. Since then, he has embraced these contests to challenge himself, refine his craft, and grow as a writer. Writing has long been one of Sullivan’s favorite pursuits. He enjoys creating imaginative worlds, developing compelling stories, and exploring themes that connect to his own experiences and observations. Looking ahead, he hopes to continue developing his writing in college and is interested in pursuing screenwriting or publishing his first novel. For Sullivan, writing contests have served as an important steppingstone, helping him build confidence in his abilities and providing opportunities that have shaped his growth as a writer.

Madison Heyward is a high school senior who resides in the metro-Atlanta area. She is a very passionate writer who has always enjoyed essays, story writing, and research. She has been honored for her skills through being nominated for her state’s Governor’s Honors Program. She steadily wants to increase her skills by choosing to take college level English courses and be a part of the AP Capstone program. 

Eduardo Gil lives with his family in Florida. One of his primary interests is tennis, a sport he has been playing more frequently in recent years after discovering how much he enjoys it. In addition to tennis, Eduardo has a strong passion for drawing and has developed considerable confidence in his artistic abilities through regular practice. Looking toward the future, he hopes to pursue a career that allows him to use his artistic talents, ideally in a field related to drawing or visual arts. If that path does not work out, he is also interested in becoming a therapist, as he sees it as a meaningful profession that aligns with his interests and would allow him to help others.

Kayleen Castrillon is a writer at Pinecrest North Preparatory who explores passion for truth, empathetic creativity, and identity. Her work focuses on inner reflection, the world around us, and how it affects emotions and day-to-day lives. Inspired by harmonious music, art, and complexities of the brain, she aims to create understanding pieces of complex experiences and far thought-out concepts. She’s an active band member, engages through clubs and classes, and is proudly in the Tri-M Honors Society. She’s always seen on stage with events like the Valentine’s Day Concert and concerts at Miracle Mile and UM for youths with disabilities. Through these experiences, she’s understood that humans come in different shapes and forms, yet all familiar and connect with foreign emotions and consoling artwork. Kayleen hopes that with this piece, she can help others feel heard without being invaded and seen for things they haven’t discovered themselves.

Emilia Castillo is currently a junior in Clear Springs High School, with her schedule ranging from color guard and piano to FCCLA, honor societies, and several AP classes. She wishes to become an apparel designer, and dreams of including fiction writing, music, and vlogging in her future. She hopes to share her hobbies and well-wishes with those around her. Hoping to change the world, she puts her best foot forward in everything that she does, loving every moment of it.

Romina Rodríguez is a high school student from Guadalajara, Mexico. She has an interest in artistic activities as well as playing volleyball with her friends in school. Romina is in the pursuit of learning new skills, such as improving her English level and taking dance classes. Being part of the NEHS chapter has impacted her in leveling up her English skills. In her free time, not only does she enjoy watching movies and listening to music, but she also enjoys doing recreational outdoor activities with her friends. In the future, Romina wants to study finance and become an exchange student anywhere in the world. She would also like to visit many places during or after her studies.

Ximena Alejandra Domínguez Barragán is a Mexican high school student, born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. She is the third of three children. She is currently a member of the NEHS student council in her fourth semester at PrepaTec Santa Anita, where she participates in social responsibility activities and promotes the love of reading and the English language. Besides her studies, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, listening to music and exploring her creativity through writing and poetry.

Aldo Cabrera is from Guadalajara, Jalisco, and is currently studying at PrepaTec Santa Anita. He describes himself as a socially conscious individual who looks after both interpersonal and intrapersonal respect and the preservation of human dignity. As an NEHS member, Aldo has been part of several initiatives that aim at social and informative equity. He has also collaborated with Fundación Marisa, a social association focused on sorority and gender equality, and as leader of the projects area at MÁS, a local student group that aims efforts toward childhood dignity. Currently, he has been focusing on creating his own association that looks after equity in education and the development of a quality educative system that improves opportunity equality for youth and social empowerment through development of individual and collective skills to enhance lifestyle and well-being.

Julieta Vieyra is a student from PrepaTec Santa Anita, where she forms part of the first NHES chapter. She is currently in her fourth semester and is looking forward to enriching this NHES chapter. Being Vice President of the chapter has built in her resilience and leadership because it is not an easy task. Not only does she like to participate in her school, but she is also a high-level swimmer. One of her achievements is being part of the state team and winning the bronze at the nationals. Swimming has taught her discipline and patience, which she applies in her academics. In her free time, she enjoys going out with her friends and family. Julieta is very focused, kind, and joyful, and dreams of helping people have better opportunities.

David Aguero is a high-achieving junior at Crossroads Christian Academy and the President of the National English Honor Society. As a founding member, he has expanded the chapter’s impact by coordinating academic competitions and providing English instruction to the local community. While a passionate advocate for the humanities, David is equally driven by the sciences, excelling in a demanding curriculum including AP Chemistry. He aspires to a career in Biochemistry and Food Science, fueled by a mission to make nutrition more accessible for all. Beyond his presidency, David serves as Student Council Treasurer and the Clarinet Section Captain for the school’s wind ensemble. His commitment to service is further exemplified as a kids’ ministry leader, where he mentors younger children in their spiritual growth. A fully bilingual student, David strives to bridge cultural divides and celebrate his Panamanian identity through inclusive leadership.

Paloma Rojas is a senior at Crossroads Christian Academy and the Vice President of the National English Honor Society. As a founding member, she has been instrumental in organizing diverse initiatives, including English instruction for non-native speakers, spelling bees, and creative writing competitions to promote literacy. Paloma consistently demonstrates academic excellence in rigorous coursework, such as AP US History and AP Calculus AB, earning accolades including the High Honor Roll and subject awards in Mathematics and Social Studies. Beyond academics, Paloma has served as the captain of the varsity volleyball team since her sophomore year. A standout athlete, she is a four-time top scorer in the “Elevate Sportscup” and received the tournament’s “Best Serve” and “Best Attack” awards. Her contributions were further recognized with the “Best Volleyball Player” award, reflecting her disciplined leadership both on and off the court.

Rebekah Koenig is an involved and dedicated senior at Crossroads Christian Academy, where she has demonstrated a consistent commitment to academic excellence and student leadership. As a founding member and current Secretary of the school’s National English Honor Society chapter, she is instrumental in organizing initiatives that promote literacy and English proficiency. Beyond her work with the Honor Society, Rebekah has immersed herself in leadership through the Student Council. Throughout her high school career, she has held positions of increasing responsibility, including Treasurer, Vice President, and President. In these roles, she works toward fostering a cohesive community across all age groups, striving to leave a meaningful legacy for the benefit of the entire student body. Seeking to major in Elementary Education, Rebekah has been inspired by her experiences as a teacher’s aide and tutor. She intends to utilize her bilingual abilities to provide personalized, impactful instruction to the next generation.

Leillah Kafumbe is a senior at Rock Ridge High School. A lot of her time is split between art and soccer, whether that’s working on a piece for class or being on the field, both really help her keep her brain active. This past year, she served as an officer in the National English Honor Society, which has been a cool experience. She’s gotten to watch her chapter grow a lot and reach more people in her school and community than before. Being part of that growth has taught her a lot about collaboration and leadership without it feeling too formal. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a degree in architecture and someday be a licensed architect.

Anthonya Lassissi is a second-year member of the 9 3/4 Chapter of NEHS. She loves reading fantasy books and connecting with unique perspectives through literature.

Andrea Murillo Gutiérrez is a student at  PrepaTec León. She is in her last year of high school and is the President of NEHS at her school. She likes learning new things, especially languages. She currently knows how to speak English, Spanish, and French. She enjoys cooking desserts and spending time with her friends. She has played piano since she was 5 years old. She is passionate about helping people and thinks that making a positive impact on her community is important. In the NEHS chapter, she enjoys organizing projects that promote learning and collaboration. She is a dedicated student who works hard to achieve her goals and make a positive difference.

Jessica Rodríguez Villaburu is a fourth-semester student at PrepaTec León and a member of NEHS. She is known for being organized, efficient, and dedicated in everything she does. Since childhood, she has practiced gymnastics, where she developed discipline and perseverance, values she still applies today. Jessica enjoys spending time with family and friends and is always willing to help others. She believes in maintaining a healthy balance between mind and body as a key to success. She has strengthened her leadership and teamwork skills while also making time to relax through exercise. Jessica believes that small actions can create meaningful change.

Diego Gómez Cabrera is a seventeen-year-old senior at PrepaTec León. He enjoys spending time with friends and his girlfriend, playing video games, and learning new things. He is known for his strong English skills, supported by Cambridge and Victoria certifications and his participation in the National English Honor Society. Diego has contributed to organizing events such as concerts, parades, reading clubs, and an upcoming Model United Nations. He is passionate about cinema and has taken acting lessons and animation courses to grow in this field. In January, he will begin his final semester of high school.

Samantha Ontiveros serves as the National English Honor Society’s Vice President for the Clear Springs Chapter. She is a senior at Clear Springs High School and participates in multiple extracurricular activities including theatre, debate, and a series of other honor societies. She is currently taking AP Literature and Composition and plans to continue education in English throughout college. Outside of school, she is a member of a Girl Scout troop, in which she has received a Bronze and Silver Award and is working for her Gold. As of this school year, she has read 22 novels. Samantha cherishes the creative process of reading and writing through any means possible.

Nicole Yezersky, senior at Trumbull High and NEHS Co-President, aims to use English literature to educate. From descriptive essays in AP Language and Composition to Monthly Bulletin Boards encompassing the importance of literature to the world, Yezersky uses her bountiful resources to make an impact at her school. She especially loves Banned Book week, a time of recognition for the many books taken from libraries, bookstores, and schools on account of their content. As one of Yezersky’s favorite books is 1984, she likes to reflect on the impactful dystopian novels deemed banned by society. Yezersky aims to lead others with this type of literature recognition and keeps it in her life to remain an active member of her community.

Rachel Dizney, a senior at Trumbull High School, has grown up loving to write. It was the first way she learned how to express herself, and still her favorite way of doing so. She is honored to be a member of her NEHS chapter, and her favorite thing to do is work on the Bulletin Boards. She loves all things English, her favorite English class she has taken being her creative writing class. She is an avid participant in her high school’s theater program; painting has become her second favorite form of self-expression. Although she plans to pursue a career in agriculture, she absolutely loved her experience with NEHS. What she has learned here will truly stick with her for the rest of her life.