Announcing the Recipients of the 2026 LTI Seal of Biliteracy Achievement Scholarship
Each year, Language Testing International® (LTI) proudly recognizes outstanding Seal of Biliteracy recipients through the LTI Seal of Biliteracy Achievement Scholarship. The scholarship celebrates students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to language learning and who use their multilingual skills to build connections, serve their communities, and create opportunities for themselves and others.
This year’s theme, “My Languages Open Doors,” invited students to reflect on the ways multilingualism has shaped their lives and futures. The 120+ responses we received were inspiring. From advocating for accessibility and supporting immigrant families to teaching others, preserving cultural heritage, and pursuing careers in education, healthcare, law, and public service, these students showed that language is far more than a means of communication but a pathway to understanding, leadership, and meaningful impact. We are honored to recognize the following recipients of the 2026 LTI Seal of Biliteracy Achievement Scholarship.
Emma Godown (English, American Sign Language)
Emma Godown exemplifies the power of language to foster inclusion, accessibility, and human connection. Through five years of dedicated study of American Sign Language and Deaf culture, she has earned the Seal of Biliteracy while using her skills to build meaningful relationships and create more welcoming spaces for Deaf individuals in both her workplace and personal life. As Emma explains, language is about “making people feel seen and understood.” Her teacher describes her as a compassionate leader whose work on technology accessibility for the Deaf demonstrates critical thinking and a commitment to positive change. Emma’s passion for communication, service, and accessibility reflects the very spirit of this year’s theme.
Sofiia Govorun (English, Russian)
After immigrating to the United States from Russia just three years ago, Sofiia Govorun transformed the challenge of learning a new language and adapting to a new culture into an inspiring story of perseverance and growth. Earning the Seal of Biliteracy represents not only her remarkable linguistic achievement but also her determination to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. Sofiia learned that “being bilingual is not a weakness, but a strength,” and now hopes to create classrooms where every student feels welcomed, included, and supported. Her resilience, empathy, and commitment to serving others make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.
Genesis Valiente (English, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese)
Genesis Valiente’s extraordinary passion for languages has led her to earn four Seals of Biliteracy. As a first-generation American, she views language as far more than vocabulary, describing it as “advocacy, connection, a deeper understanding, and expanding your world.” Her goal of becoming an Italian teacher reflects her desire to help young people find their voice while building inclusive communities. Recognized by her teacher for her exceptional aptitude and dedication, Genesis embodies how multilingualism opens doors for both individuals and communities.
Aaron Raiz (English, Spanish)
For Aaron Raiz, language is a pathway to service, leadership, and global citizenship. Through years of Spanish study, immersion experiences in Spain, and extensive volunteer work, he has used his language skills to support Spanish-speaking families, advocate for childhood literacy, and assist patients in healthcare settings. Aaron describes Spanish as “a tool for advocacy,” and his actions demonstrate exactly that. As president of his school’s Spanish Honor Society, he has inspired others while actively building bridges across cultures and communities.
Alexandra Johnson (English, Spanish)
Growing up in a bilingual household and an international military community, Alexandra Johnson learned early that language can unite people across cultures and experiences. As president of her Spanish Honor Society chapter, she launched a youth cultural immersion initiative that introduces elementary students to bilingual literacy and language learning. Alexandra hopes to pursue international public law and use her language skills to “speak with people rather than for them.” Her dedication to fostering inclusion, cultural literacy, and meaningful connection makes her an outstanding representative of the Seal of Biliteracy.
Jenna Zelem (English, French)
Jenna Zelem transformed her passion for French into a remarkable opportunity to serve and educate others. After earning biliteracy credentials in French and English, she independently designed and taught a four-week introductory French course for adults at her local public library. Jenna credits language learning with giving her “real-life experience with planning courses and activities” and helping prepare her for her future career in education. Her initiative, leadership, and dedication perfectly illustrate how language learning can open doors to both personal and professional growth.
Connor Smith (English, Spanish)
Connor Smith has embraced language learning as a means of building trust, strengthening relationships, and broadening his perspective. His Spanish skills have allowed him to communicate with customers and coworkers, serve as a translator in his workplace, and contribute to multicultural initiatives at school. Connor recognizes that language learning helps people connect with others in their “most comfortable language,” and his willingness to step outside his comfort zone reflects the qualities of an engaged global citizen. His commitment to continuing his language studies in college demonstrates a clear understanding of how multilingualism creates opportunities throughout life.
Rhea St. Vil (English, Haitian Creole, French, Spanish)
Rhea St. Vil’s achievement of earning Seals of Biliteracy in French, Haitian Creole, and Spanish reflects both her linguistic talent and her deep commitment to community. As a translator for her family, cultural ambassador, artist, and student leader, she uses language as “a bridge…to communicate with my community.” Her teacher praised her maturity, determination, and extraordinary involvement in cultural and educational initiatives. Rhea’s ability to connect cultures, celebrate her heritage, and serve others demonstrates the lasting impact of multilingualism.
Kyle Gregorio (English, Latin)
Kyle Gregorio has shown that even an ancient language can open modern doors. Through his study of Latin, he has strengthened connections within his family, served his faith community, and emerged as a leader in the Junior Classical League. Kyle believes that “language is more than about words—it’s about bringing people together,” a philosophy reflected in his mentorship, volunteer service, and academic leadership. His intellectual curiosity, generosity, and commitment to helping others demonstrate that language has the power to connect people across generations and communities.
Audrey Kuendig (English, Spanish)
Since beginning Spanish immersion education at age five, Audrey Kuendig has used language as a tool for building relationships, challenging assumptions, and strengthening her community. Through leadership in her school’s Spanish Club, conversations with students in Colombia, and advocacy efforts supporting immigrant families, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to cultural understanding. Audrey believes that being bilingual allows her to “more easily and freely connect with other people,” and she consistently uses her language skills to build more inclusive communities.
Yajaira Saldana (English, Spanish)
Yajaira Saldana’s passion for healthcare and community service is closely tied to her commitment to bilingual communication. Inspired by childhood experiences navigating medical settings with a Spanish-speaking parent, she hopes to use her language skills to help patients feel understood and confident when seeking care. Her goal is to ensure others can “actually voice their concerns” in critical moments. Combined with her dedication to her studies and pursuit of the Seal of Biliteracy, Yajaira exemplifies how language can open doors to service and advocacy.
