Introducing the 2026 Vogt Educational & Leadership Scholars
Written by Christina Miller
The Vogt Educational & Leadership Scholarship recognizes outstanding Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to serving their communities. Each Vogt Scholar receives $12,000 through a perpetual endowment established by Henry V. Heuser, Sr., whose legacy with the Community Foundation of Louisville continues to shape lives and strengthen our city.
We are proud to celebrate the 18 recipients of this year’s Vogt Educational & Leadership Scholarship—students representing different high schools across Jefferson County who are already making an impact through academic achievement, service, and leadership.
Meet the 2026 Vogt Scholars
Listed in alphabetical order by last name; each student is pictured with JCPS Superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood (left), and the Community Foundation CEO & President, Ron Gallo (right); Photography by Media Pros Productions
Mahdi Bevab – Atherton High School
A student leader with an above‑perfect GPA, Mahdi holds leadership roles in the Science National Honor Society, Health Occupations Students of America, and the National Honor Society. He volunteers regularly at Norton Healthcare and is a member of the Atherton tennis team.
Elijah Borders – J. Graham Brown School
Elijah is involved in Quiz Bowl, Science Olympiad, robotics, and computer science competitions. He also serves as a Senior Patrol Leader in the Scouts of America and competes in multiple sports.
Elliot Brooks – Pathfinder School of Innovation
Elliot combines leadership and technical skills through student media, club leadership, and industry certifications in computer programming and digital literacy.
Delilah Calderon – Ballard High School
Delilah serves as a Patient Care Assistant on the oncology unit at Norton Women and Children’s Hospital and has led efforts as Vice President of the Period Poverty Initiative while remaining active in community volunteer service.
ZaHir Covington – W.E.B. DuBois Academy
ZaHir has served as captain of the Quick Recall team and is active in debate, student leadership, mentoring, and community advocacy initiatives.
Carly Cox – Fairdale High School
Carly participates in Youth Ambassadors Leading Louisville and is a member of the Beta Club and the National Honor Society. She is also a Governor’s Scholars Program participant.
Malikah Fullilove – Southern High School
Malikah is active in JROTC and tennis and has completed dual‑enrollment coursework in machining while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.
Abigail Guyer – Eastern High School
Abigail has served as captain of Future Problem Solvers, Student Council Treasurer, and a National Honor Society officer. She is also a Louisville Urban Leaders/Cultured Mornings Ambassador and an award‑winning student.
James Hankins – Jeffersontown High School
James serves as a leader across academics and the arts, including roles as President of Beta Club and Educators Rising. He is a violist and active participant in theater, debate, and Youth Ambassadors Leading Louisville.
Andrew Johnson – Butler High School
Andrew is involved in the National Honor Society, the Kentucky Youth Association, and the Kentucky United Nations Assembly and serves as Vice President of Future Business Leaders of America. He is recognized for leading with humility and purpose.
Destiny Kellum – Louisville Male High School
Destiny has completed more than 230 volunteer hours at Norton Hospital and is active in Student Senate, National Honor Society, Beta Club, and Future Business Leaders of America.
Jaydon Lake – Central High School
Jaydon is a leader in Central’s STEM magnet and a Governor’s Scholars Program participant. He balances academic excellence with involvement in the National Honor Society, Black Achievers, Trio Upward Bound, and athletics.
Emily Lambert – Waggener High School
Emily serves as an Academic Officer in the National Honor Society and captain of the Quick Recall team while contributing to the yearbook staff and community service projects.
Izzy Probus – Seneca High School
Izzy is President of the National Honor Society and founder of Urban Educators, a program partnering with a local elementary school to teach agriculture and hands‑on learning.
Aliyah Robinson – Pleasure Ridge Park High School
Aliyah balances varsity athletics, leadership, and advanced coursework while serving on the Student Ambassador Leadership Team and participating in theater and Educators Rising.
Essence Smith – Fern Creek High School
Essence is active in the Louisville Youth Philanthropy Council, Louisville Girls Leadership, and Ivy Plus Academy. She tutors middle school students and serves as a Fern Creek school ambassador.
Caitlyn Staebler – duPont Manual High School
Caitlyn serves on duPont Manual’s Executive Council and is active in the National Honor Society and Beta Club while competing in swim and field hockey. Her leadership is grounded in building community and collaboration.
Jeremy Wilbert, Jr. – Valley High School
Jeremy is a technology leader involved in robotics, student media, and the VIKE Squad technology team, supporting peers and educators with tech solutions.
Inspired by the Vogt Scholars? Create a Legacy That Lasts
If you’re inspired by the accomplishments of the Vogt Scholars and want to learn how you can create a lasting legacy through a scholarship fund, contact us at stewardship@cflouisville.org or call 502.855.6171.