- Enrique Rosario Liz was named the 2026-27 National Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Clubs of America and received a $50,000 scholarship.
- Rosario Liz immigrated from the Dominican Republic and credits Boys & Girls Clubs with inspiring his passion for education and leadership.
- He plans a career in education focused on ensuring every child has resources and encouragement to succeed in school.
University of Florida first-year student Enrique Rosario Liz has been named the 2026-27 National Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the organization’s highest youth recognition.
According to a UF release, Rosario Liz, an elementary education student at UF, was selected Oct. 1 in New York City from six national finalists in recognition of his leadership, service and academic excellence. The honor includes a $50,000 college scholarship, a $25,000 retirement contribution from Raymond James and a new Toyota Corolla.
“When I heard my name called, I just felt a rush of gratitude,” Rosario Liz said in the release. “This program has been so special to me for so many years. It’s heartwarming to be recognized.”
As National Youth of the Year, Rosario Liz will serve as a spokesperson for millions of young people involved with Boys & Girls Clubs, advocating for educational resources and support for students.
His commitment to education grew out of his own childhood experiences, according to the release. Rosario Liz immigrated with his family from Santiago, Dominican Republic, to Port St. Lucie when he was 8. Surrounded by peers who spoke fluent English, he often struggled to feel that he belonged.
At age 12, he joined Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, where he found mentors and a supportive community. He later created and taught a Spanish language program for more than 40 children ages 5 to 10.
Rosario Liz graduated as his high school’s valedictorian and earned an associate degree in elementary education from Indian River State College before beginning his studies at UF in August. He now serves as a student ambassador for the university’s College of Education and participates in the Hispanic-Latine Student Association and the Member Leadership Program.
He is preparing for a career in education with the goal of creating classrooms where every child has the resources and encouragement needed to succeed.
“We are proud to welcome Enrique to an extraordinary group of young people who have found their voices and are making an impact in their communities,” said Jim Clark, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, in the release. “This recognition reflects Enrique’s hard work and determination, as well as the experiences that help young people become confident, future-ready leaders. We look forward to seeing all that Enrique will accomplish this year, and in the years ahead.”
Rosario Liz hopes to become the kind of educator who can offer other children what he found at Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County: someone who believes in them.
“With education, almost everything you do can leave a long-lasting impact,” Rosario Liz said. “I want to make that impact.”