Walentas Scholars Class of 2026
Meet the trailblazers selected to join the inaugural class
Class Highlights
The inaugural class of Walentas Scholars leaves behind a remarkable record of leadership, scholarship, service, and community engagement at UVA. They served as presidents, founders, mentors, researchers, teaching assistants, student government leaders, and advocates across dozens of organizations.
Their impact reached every corner of Grounds, from public health, medicine, engineering, and education to the arts, public policy, business, and civic engagement. They volunteered in local schools, hospitals, legal aid programs, and conducted research alongside faculty and graduate students.
Together, they embody the ethos of the Jefferson Scholars Foundation: community-minded individuals who contribute their talents to strengthen and uplift those around them.
Fourth-Year Toast
"To the Foundation, thank you for always bringing us together and for always acknowledging that without us, there would be no Walentas Scholars Program.
Thank you for reminding us everyday that we are the future and that there are so many other Walentas Scholars that will come behind us because of the work that we have done here.
And thank you to all of the Fourth Years for all of the hard work you have put into your time here. Together, we are charting the way forward."
—Justin Gregory (WS '26)
Inaugural Class of 2026
