The Humphrey-Johnson Book Prize for Inspirational Leadership and Social Change is a new initiative, in its pilot phase, to award rising seniors of participating Minnesota high schools to recognize outstanding academic and extracurricular achievement. Sponsored by The Givens Foundation for African American Literature, recipients are nominated by their school to receive a book authored by a local leader who emulates a commitment to public service and leadership in the state, building on the legacy of Hubert H. Humphrey and Dr. Josie R. Johnson.
Recipients of this award demonstrate:
- Passionate Advocacy: Following Humphrey's legacy, students should show a deep commitment to public service and advocacy for underrepresented communities.
- Inspirational Leadership: Emulating Josie Johnson's leadership, recipients should exhibit the ability to lead with empathy, integrity, and the drive to inspire others in their pursuit of equity and justice.
- Dedication to Social Change: In line with the themes of Into the Bright Sunshine, written by Samuel Freedman and Johnson’s Hope in the Struggle, students should actively engage in efforts to bring about meaningful social change, showing resilience and optimism in the face of challenges.
- Community Engagement: Reflecting both Humphrey's and Johnson's dedication to community, recipients should demonstrate a strong connection to their communities, working collaboratively to uplift and support others.
- Intellectual Curiosity and Reflection: Award winners should display a commitment to understanding complex social issues, reflecting on different perspectives, and being open to continuous learning and personal growth.
Congratulations to the 2026 Humphrey-Johnson Book Prize Awardees
Don Blackmore, Denfeld High School (Duluth). A student who leads through action, Don balanced nine high school and college courses, taking classes at Lake Superior College through Minnesota's Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program, alongside a demanding football season, earning recognition on both Denfeld's Honor/Merit Roll and the Lake Superior College Dean's List. His counselors describe him as "a serious, warm, and humble student of substance" and "a doer, not a talker," who plans to complete his associate's degree alongside his high school diploma.
Charles Frescas, Twin Cities Academy (St. Paul). Charles was recognized for his courage in speaking at St. Paul student protests in support of immigrant community members, stepping forward to give voice to neighbors who often go unheard. "He cares deeply for his community and is not afraid to speak up for the underrepresented," his counselor wrote, noting his commitment to standing with community members. His willingness to act, rather than remain silent, reflects the deep empathy and sense of responsibility at the heart of this award.
Barbara Rodriguez Zaqueros, Robbinsdale Armstrong High School (Plymouth). A creative force and community builder, Barbara contributes to Art Club, Mural Club, the Robbinsdale Youth Council, Gender and Sexuality Alliance, and Peer Mentoring, strengthening her school's spirit and inclusivity through both art and outreach. She pairs that engagement with a rigorous academic record in Advanced Placement and PSEO coursework, and her counselor praised the time management, organization, and accountability that set an example for her peers. "She makes Armstrong High School a better place," her counselor wrote.
Mahnoor Zaman, Parnassus Preparatory School (Maple Grove). A leader in Youth in Government, Student Senate, and Mock Trial, where she guides her team as an innovative thinker, Mahnoor pairs scholarship with sustained advocacy. She works to promote equality for Muslim communities in the United States through protests, lobbying efforts, and public engagement, with a genuine commitment to reform and issues of international peace. Her teachers describe her as "very civic-minded" with a focus on "creating positive change in the communities she is a part of."
What Recipients Receive
The Book Award is presented to recipients at the end of the academic year during the school's graduation or award ceremony by alumni, faculty, or staff of the Humphrey School. Recipients will receive:
- A copy of one of the following books
- Into the Bright Sunshine - Samuel G. Freedman
- Hope in the Struggle A Memoir - Josie R. Johnson
- An award certificate signed by the dean of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs
Eligible Schools
Book prize nominations for 2026 will be accepted from the following Minnesota schools:
- Twin Cities Academy
- Richfield High School
- Robbinsdale Armstrong High School
- Denfeld High School
- Parnassus Preparatory School
- Hmong College Prep Academy
Nomination Guidelines
Thank you for your interest in the Humphrey-Johnson Book Prize. Nominations for the 2026 cycle are now closed. Please check back for updates on future opportunities.
- No more than one student will be awarded from a single eligible school per academic year.
- Nominees must be in the 11th grade and progressing to 12th grade, to receive this award.
- Through generous sponsorship by The Givens Foundation for African American Literature, this award will be provided at no cost to participating schools.
- Humphrey School staff will review eligible nominations and follow up with the school contact to confirm the nominee and provide next steps for receipt of the award. The award will be mailed directly to the nominator at the school of the selected student and include selected book, a certificate, and a signed letter from the Humphrey School Dean.
- Following presentation of the award, Humphrey School staff will follow up with the school contact to request photos of the student so that we may promote them via our communications platforms.
Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.