2026 Student Visionaries of the Year Announced

Tessa was inspired by a cousin who has non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. “I wanted to support other people like him struggling with it,” she said. Natalie found the cause worthwhile and wanted to help others.

Each year, high schoolers compete for seven weeks across the country and network within their communities to raise funds to benefit the Blood Cancer United mission of research and finding cures. As part of the program, students learn valuable leadership and philanthropic skills, and top earners garner the Student Visionary of the Year title.

Tessa was surprised by the tremendous support they received from family and businesses interested in their fundraising efforts. “We wrote down lists of companies we wanted to contact, and we went from there," she explained.  The students emailed, scheduled meetings, and presented their case. Tessa continued, “It was nerve-wracking to speak to them, especially because we were asking for money, but they were kind and open to our pitch.”

“I was happy to learn we were named Student Visionaries,” said Natalie. “Our hard work paid off to aid people struggling with blood cancer.” Tessa added, “I was surprised to be named a Student Visionary. I really put myself out there, and I think I have made a positive contribution.”

This is the second year in a row that the St. Cecilia team has won the Student Visionaries of the Year title. Last year’s team, led by Alle Epstein and Kirsten Tumanda, raised more than $100K for Blood Cancer United.

The Blood Cancer United mission is to cure blood cancer and improve the quality of life of all patients and their families. The organization funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.