About Student Visionaries of the Year

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What is a Visionary?

Visionaries look to the future—and see infinite possibility. They challenge the status quo—and make the impossible possible. They boldly imagine a better world – and lead the charge to create it.

Blood Cancer United was built on that same vision - of a better world - one without blood cancers. And with the help of high school students across the country, our impact is stronger than ever - and growing.

Fundraiser at an event

Students are leaders of tomorrow

Student Visionaries of the Year is a groundbreaking philanthropic leadership development program for high school students. Every year, courageous young leaders embark on an exciting 7-week journey with a goal to create a world without blood cancers, striving to earn the Student Visionary of the Year title.

 

Being part of the Student Visionaries campaign was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had. Raising over $160,000 showed me how powerful a community can be in coming together to rally behind a meaningful cause. Fundraising for Blood Cancer United taught me many valuable skills which I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Most importantly, I’m incredibly grateful to have contributed to a cause that works to improve the lives of so many people.

photo of Max, Student Visionaries of the Year Candidate

Max

Team For The Cure, NYC Team Memeber of the Year 2026

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How it works

  1. Students form candidate teams of 1-3 peers and run in honor of a local pediatric blood cancer survivor.
  2. Candidate teams recruit team members of all ages to help with their fundraising.
  3. Staff work with candidate teams to map out a plan of success.
  4. Campaigns kick off and candidates lead their teams in fundraising for 7 weeks.

At the end of the 7 weeks, a Grand Finale Celebration is held, and the total funds raised by candidate teams within a community, as well as the top fundraising teams, are revealed.

 

Participating in the Student Visionaries of the Year campaign taught me valuable leadership skills and about the importance of teamwork. It also enhanced my communication skills. Success in pitching to companies and conducting individual online outreach taught me to be more confident and assertive in professional settings.

photo of Piper, National Team Member of the Year 2025

Piper

National Team Member of the Year 2025

Why participate?

Professional Skills

Foster skills like networking, financial planning, and public speaking to help you stand out among your peers.

Impact

Be a part of the last generation to see cancer. Provide a monumental impact in the fight.

Recognition

Gain exposure for your team, your school, and your community while helping support cancer research, patient support, and advocacy.

 

Having the opportunity to do something meaningful with my son and watching him grow in a professional capacity was an experience I will always be grateful for.

photo of Kelly and her son Ryan, Student Visionaries of the Year Candidate

Kelly and her son, Ryan

Former candidate

Fundraiser at an event

Are you the next Student Visionary of the Year?

Find out if you have what it takes to become a Student Visionaries of the Year candidate. Run as a single candidate or sign up with 1 or 2 other co-candidates to increase the size and reach of your campaign.

Become a candidate