Ten Outstanding Young Americans

America’s Top Leadership Recognition Program

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About TOYA

The Ten Outstanding Young Americans (TOYA) program has honored exceptional leaders between the ages of 18 and 40 since 1938. Administered by JCI USA, the award recognizes Americans who exemplify excellence across diverse fields—from science and entrepreneurship to military service, philanthropy, and the arts.

Each year, nominees are evaluated on achievements in at least three of ten categories, with finalists selected by a panel of judges. The final ten honorees receive the “JAYSON” trophy—symbolizing youth, service, and leadership—and join a legacy of changemakers whose work uplifts communities nationwide.

TOYA Spotlight: Major Julian Gluck’s Story

In this emotional and historic speech, Major Julian Gluck, one of the 2023 Ten Outstanding Young Americans, reflects on military service, sacrifice, and what it means to carry forward the TOYA legacy.

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Suggest a potential nominee by sharing their name and why they should be considered.




TOYA Voices: How Impactful Work Gets Seen

In this podcast, JCI USA National Vice President Chris Thompson and TOYA 2023 honoree Kyrus Keenan Westcott open up about quiet leadership, imposter syndrome, and how the TOYA program shines a light on everyday changemakers making extraordinary impact.

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