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In white block letters, the image reads NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarshship.

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The Retail Leaders of Tomorrow

The highest honor that the NRF Foundation can bestow upon a student features a top award of $25,000 and recognition as an emerging leader in retail.

Congratulations to Sarah Starko of Babson College

Next Generation Scholarship Winner Announced

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With a background of shimmering glass in purple and red hues, the Next Generation Scholarship finalists are composited together. Starting from the top row, left: Madison-Jade Bishop and Shamya Banks. Bottom row left to right: Sarah Starko, Jacquelyn Dufner, and Emme Serafino.,

NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship finalists announced

The 2026 NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship – the highest honor the NRF Foundation awards to undergraduate students – was announced at the NRF Foundation Honors on January 11 in New York City.

Pictured: Top, left to right: Madison-Jade Bishop (Drexel University), Shamya Banks (Columbia College Chicago); Bottom, left to right: Sarah Starko (Babson College), Jacquelyn Dufner (University of Minnesota), Emme Serafino (Drexel University)

Meet the 2026 finalists

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See past NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship semifinalists and learn how to apply.