On Wednesday, May 6, the Special Education Foundation proudly celebrated the graduation of the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy Class of 2026 at the Emerson Auditorium inside St. Luke’s Hospital. The evening marked an important milestone for this remarkable group of student leaders whose journey throughout the year has been filled with growth, resilience, and a passion for making a difference in their schools and communities.
Family members, teachers, SSD administrators, and SEF board members gathered to honor the students during a heartfelt and inspiring ceremony. Each graduate was recognized for completing the year-long program designed to strengthen leadership, communication, self-advocacy, and confidence among students with disabilities.
Throughout the evening, students shared personal reflections about their experiences in the Fred Saigh Leadership Program. Each student selected a meaningful word that represented their journey and spoke about how the program empowered them to believe in themselves, build lasting friendships, and overcome challenges they once thought impossible.
A highlight of the celebration was a special video presentation featuring memorable moments from the year, including leadership sessions, team-building activities, community experiences, and guest speakers. The video brought both laughter and tears to the audience and showcased the incredible bond formed among the students throughout the program.
The C.J. Aubuchon Award: Leadership Through the Eyes of Peers
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the presentation of the C.J. Aubuchon Award, an honor chosen by the students themselves. This award recognizes a classmate who consistently demonstrates leadership, kindness, encouragement, and integrity while inspiring others throughout the program.
Congratulations to Mario Holmes of Valley Park & South Technical High Schools, recipient of the 2026 C.J. Aubuchon Award. Being selected by his peers makes this recognition especially significant and reflects the lasting impact Mario made on the entire group through compassion, positivity, and leadership by example.
Mario used his leadership skills to create a special moment honoring Matt Moellering for his successful first year as Coordinator of the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy. In his speech, Mario highlighted Matt’s unwavering kindness, describing him as someone who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every student feels welcomed, valued, and supported.
Mario’s message centered on gratitude and appreciation for a leader who models compassion and service every day, celebrating Matt Moellering’s first year as Coordinator and the meaningful difference he continues to make in the lives of students.
View all graduation event photos -all available to download
The Inaugural Debbie Smith Award
The evening also included the presentation of the Debbie Smith Award, which recognizes a student who embodies perseverance, personal growth, and dedication throughout their leadership journey.
Congratulations to Xavier Kadlec of Parkway South High School, recipient of the 2026 Debbie Smith Award. Xavier’s determination, growth, and commitment to supporting others truly reflected the spirit of the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy and inspired everyone around him.
Stay tuned as we will be announcing the 2026-2027 Fred Saigh Leadership Academy class and Junior Leaders this summer!
