The Susanne Smoller Commitment to Advocacy Youth Award will be given to one high school senior to encourage them to pursue post-secondary education or training and to continue their active engagement in advocacy in the areas of HIV/AIDS, the LGBTQ+ community, mental health, social justice or substance use. 

The award recipient will receive a $500 monetary award, plus an invitation to attend the NYS PTA Legislative Summit and Lobby Day, with costs covered for themselves and one parent/guardian, including meals, registration fees, and lodging for one night (if hotel room desired). 

Application Closed

The application for this prestigious award is open to senior students:

1. 1. Who are on track to graduate* by August 2026 from a New York State high school/BOCES where there is a PTA/PTSA/SEPTA unit in good standing (a centralized PTA unit with a high school component is acceptable); and

1. 1. Who have post-secondary and/or career aspirations; and  

1. 1. Who demonstrate a commitment to and active engagement in advocacy related to issues of HIV/AIDS, the LGBTQ+ community, mental health, social justice, or substance use.

Applications for this coming year’s award, including at least one letter of recommendation or statement of recommendation, must be postmarked by November 15, 2025, to the NYS PTA office or submitted via Google Forms by 11:59 pm on November 15, 2025, to be awarded February 2026.

*graduation plans will be verified with your school by NYS PTA