When we launched the Framingham Impact Awards alongside Access Framingham, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest, and the MetroWest Chamber of Commerce, we had a simple goal. We wanted to recognize students whose actions, character, leadership, kindness, and commitment to others make a positive difference in the lives of the people around them. What we quickly discovered is that there is no shortage of students doing exactly that.
Students from across Framingham were nominated by friends, family members, teachers, coaches, and in some cases, themselves. As our nomination committee worked through the applications, one thing became clear. Every application told the story of a student who was finding ways to positively impact their school, their peers, and their community. From all of the applications submitted, we selected ten students to become the inaugural Framingham Impact Award winners, which was no easy task.
Each application represented a student who was leading in their own way. Some were helping classmates. Some were volunteering their time. Some were setting positive examples for others to follow. All were making a difference. We are grateful to every student who applied and to everyone who took the time to nominate a deserving young person. We hope those who were not selected this year will continue doing what they are doing and apply again in the future.
Today, we are proud to introduce the inaugural Framingham Impact Award winners:
Keenan Tiede, 8th Grade
Lily Hannigan, 8th Grade
Pietro Bento, 8th Grade
Lavinia Miranda, 5th Grade
Gregory Fernald, 7th Grade
Raven Ronan, 7th Grade
Draydin Maskell, 8th Grade
Eden Barnett, 11th Grade
Blake Martin, 6th Grade
Cecil Kenney, 10th Grade
These students represent the best of what kids, teens, and young adults can be. They are leaders, helpers, teammates, role models, problem solvers, and positive influences within their schools and communities.
On June 13th 2026, we will celebrate these students at the first-ever Framingham Impact Awards at Framingham High School. Each winner will be featured in a professionally produced video created by Access Framingham and recognized for the impact they have made.
Congratulations to our inaugural winners.
More importantly, thank you for the example you are setting for others. Communities become stronger when next generation care about the people around them, and each of you has demonstrated exactly what that looks like.
