Initiative.
Stepping forward to help a new student without being asked.
I.M.P.A.C.T. LEADERSHIP AWARD
No one starts
over alone.
Recognizing the students in Virginia's Purple Star Schools who make sure of it.
HONOR ROLL
Meet the honorees
2025–2026 students recognized for supporting military-connected classmates.
About the award
Military-connected students move often. Each move means a new school, new classmates, and starting over. In many of Virginia's Purple Star Schools, students step up to help. They give the tour on a new student's first day, sit with them at lunch, and make sure they have someone to talk to. The I.M.P.A.C.T. Leadership Award recognizes those students.
The award is open to high school students in Virginia's Purple Star Schools. It is presented by the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Department of Virginia, in partnership with the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact for the Educational Opportunity of Military Connected Children and the Virginia Department of Education.
What makes this award different is who decides. Nominations are reviewed by Purple Heart recipients, who read each one against the six I.M.P.A.C.T. values.
What the award looks for
Motivation.
Helping because it matters, not for credit.
Preparation.
Knowing the school well enough to help someone find their way.
Accountability.
Following through, week after week.
Character.
Treating every new student with dignity and respect.
Teamwork.
Working with counselors, clubs, and classmates so support reaches everyone.
How nominations work
Nominate.
A school counselor, Purple Star point of contact, or staff advisor submits the nomination form.
Describe.
The form asks for examples of the student's leadership in each of the six values. The strongest nominations describe a specific moment with a military-connected classmate. One real example says more than a list of activities.
Review.
Purple Heart recipients review each nomination.
Present.
The school hosts a presentation of the award.
Each nomination is for one student. If students have worked together, please nominate each one separately. Teamwork is one of the six values, so the partnership belongs in each student's nomination.
Hosting the presentation
Who presents
Whenever possible, the award is presented by a Purple Heart recipient. If none is available, a local veteran may present on behalf of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. First responders or school leadership may also present, with reference to the award's Purple Heart connection.
When to hold it
Purple Heart Day, August 7, falls when most schools are out of session. Schools often choose the Month of the Military Child in April, Veterans Day in November, a Purple Star renewal event, or a school assembly.
Schools are encouraged to invite local veterans, veteran service organizations, JROTC and peer support leaders, and families.
Know a student who should be recognized?
If your school has a student who stands out for the way they support military-connected peers, we want to hear about them.
Questions: purpleheartimpact@gmail.com