DC STUDENT LEADER AWARDS

What are the DC Student Leader Awards

The DC Student Leader Awards recognizes the outstanding leadership and achievements of students in the District of Columbia. The Kiwanis Club of Washington, DC sponsors the event, with the Kiwanis Foundation of the District of Columbia providing initial funding. Through community partnerships, corporate and individual donations, and Foundation funding, we have awarded scholarships to graduating high school seniors for 26 years - impacting the lives of over 200 student leaders. The scholarship is open to high school seniors who reside in and attend school in the District of Columbia - including public, private, and charter schools. Open to all educational pathways; previous recipients have pursued vocational or training schools, two- and four-year college programs, or other accredited educational institutions. In 2023, we were excited to award $75,000 in scholarships to high school seniors in all eight wards of the District of Columbia.

History of the Awards Program

Virginia ("Jenny") Cooper, President of the club in 1996, established the Joe Riley Youth Leadership Awards in 1997 (having since been renamed to the DC Student Leader Awards). Created to honor Joe's dedication and service to the DC community, the scholarship program's goal has always been to recognize and award students for their outstanding contributions to the community, leadership, and academic accomplishments. Named after Past President Joe Riley, who was always finding ways to develop leaders and managers of tomorrow, the program aims to continue his legacy. 

About Joe Riley

A high school graduate from Pittsburgh, PA, Joe Riley rose professionally to become the Chairman of the National Savings and Trust Company, a leading bank in Metropolitan Washington, now known as Truist. During his long and distinguished career, Joe volunteered his leadership skills in support of countless civic and charity organizations. Among those, he served as the President of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, the Christmas Pageant of Peace, the DC Bankers Association, and, of course, as President of the Kiwanis Club of Washington, DC in 1967.

Help us help kids

The Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C., founded in 1917, is a community-led service organization committed to making a positive impact in our nation's capital. With a rich history of service and a strong network of volunteers, we work to create lasting change and brighter futures for children in the District of Columbia. Join us in our mission so that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and live up to their full potential.

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