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Meet the 2026 Award recipients

The James Irvine Foundation Leadership Awards recognize leaders whose innovative solutions to critical state challenges improve people’s lives, create opportunity, and contribute to a better California.

The Foundation spotlights these leaders, helps share their approaches with policymakers and peers, and provides each of their organizations with a grant of $350,000 and additional resources.

Nominations are now open!

Nominations are now easier than ever. The deadline to submit your nomination is March 20, 2026 at noon (12:00 p.m. PDT).

2026 Award Recipients

The 2026 Award recipients are leading positive change in youth mentorship and mental health, civic engagement, higher education research, housing, and support for the frontline homelessness workforce.

Meet the 2026 Award Recipients

From Don Howard, President and CEO of The James Irvine Foundation One of my favorite times of year at the Irvine Foundation is when we recognize the...

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2026 Award recipients pose in front of a cityscape. Pictured: Amy Mathieson, Virgil Moorehead Jr., Chris Chatmon, Celina Alvarez, Darla M. Cooper, Lian Cheun, Erin Garner-Ford, and Adrianne Hillman