(Statewide - Louisiana) - Louisiana Public Broadcasting announces the 2026 Louisiana Young Heroes program and the statewide call for nominations of students to be recognized as Louisiana Young Heroes. A Young Hero is defined as an exceptional individual who has excelled in academics, given significantly of themselves through public service, overcome adversity, exhibited extraordinary heroism, or inspired others through their deeds and strength of character to become better students, persons, and citizens. Parents, principals, teachers, guidance counselors, family members, and friends who know of high school students deserving of recognition for their tenacity, good work and commendable deeds, are encouraged to nominate them!

LPB President & CEO, C.C Copeland, says, “It's remarkable to think that it has been 30 years since LPB established the Young Heroes Program. Over the past three decades, 236 students have been recognized for serving as role models within their communities, and it's our privilege to share the stories of these young people. We encourage nominations from around the state and look forward to celebrating the 2026 Louisiana Young Heroes this spring." 

Nominees must be Louisiana students in grades 9-12, enrolled in an academic institution or homeschool program, and cannot be older than 18 years of age. Nominations and supporting materials should be submitted through the online form at lpb.org/heroes. The deadline for entries is Sunday, March 1, 2026. (Previous Young Heroes are not eligible.)

The 2026 Louisiana Young Heroes will be announced on LPB’s weekly news and public affairs program Louisiana: The State We’re In, on the Louisiana Young Heroes Facebook page, and at lpb.org/heroes in Spring 2026. The Louisiana Young Heroes will receive special awards and recognition for their achievements.

Go to lpb.org/heroes to read more about the Louisiana Young Heroes program and to submit a nomination.

For more information, call 800-272-8161, ext. 4274 or 225-767-4274 or email heroes@lpb.org.

The 2026 Louisiana Young Heroes Program is made possible by generous supporters including The East Baton Rouge Parish Library, Community Coffee, DEMCO and McDonald's. Special thanks to the Louisiana Young Heroes Advisory Committee.

About Louisiana Public Broadcasting:

Since 1975, Louisiana Public Broadcasting has been the public television network for the state of Louisiana with stations in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe, and Shreveport. LPB is also affiliated with WLAE-TV in New Orleans. In addition to its award-winning documentaries about the history and people of Louisiana, LPB is dedicated to helping children throughout the state develop their literacy, math and science skills through its numerous educational resources and outreach programs.