A.C.E. AWARD PROGRAM

The Exchange Club of Las Vegas proudly presents the A.C.E. (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence) Awards, celebrating high school students who have triumphed over significant adversities with exceptional perseverance and dedication. These extraordinary individuals have often faced substantial physical, emotional, or social challenges, yet many remain unrecognized. Challenges overcome may include physical disabilities, language barriers, experiences of child abuse, delinquency, and substance abuse.

Why Should a Student Participate? 

Participating in the Exchange Club of Las Vegas A.C.E. Awards offers high school students a chance to shine and be recognized for their perseverance and resilience. It’s a platform to showcase their journey, highlight their achievements, and open doors to new opportunities. It’s also a brilliant addition to college applications, signaling to admissions officers a student’s capacity to overcome obstacles and succeed. Plus, the experience connects them with mentors and a network that can support their future endeavors.

Sounds like a worthwhile venture, doesn’t it?

What Happens Next After I Submit My Application?

The judging process for the A.C.E. Awards is designed to be thorough and fair. First, students submit their applications, typically including two essays, a narrative from their counselor, and other supporting materials. A panel of judges—usually composed of educators, community leaders, and Exchange Club members—reviews each application.

They assess the applicants based on criteria such as personal achievements, overcoming adversity, academic performance, and contributions to their community that was written in the essays. The judges score each candidate, and the highest-scoring applicants move forward to be recognized as award winners.

It’s a meticulous process to ensure that the most deserving students are celebrated for their incredible resilience and dedication.

What Happens If I Win?

Winning the A.C.E. Awards comes with a multitude of benefits! You’ll receive public recognition and a certificate from the Exchange Club of Las Vegas, which adds great value to your college applications and resumes. Additionally, you might earn a scholarship to support your educational aspirations. This platform allows you to share your journey, inspiring others facing similar challenges.

Advancing to the District Competition offers the chance to win $2,500. Should you succeed at the district level, you’ll proceed to the National Exchange Club ACE Awards with a shot at winning $15,000 next July.

The A.C.E. Award is a positive program with two essential objectives. First, it helps encourage students to overcome their hardships and get back on track toward a high school diploma. Second, the award recognizes those students who are often overlooked for their accomplishments. This special recognition is a powerful example to all students that hard work and perseverance pay off.

Program Timeline

November 2024 | Provide program packet and nomination form to high school counselors in your area.

January 2025 | Send an email reminder to the counselors on your submission deadline.

February 1, 2025 | ECLV to send an email reminder to the counselors on the upcoming submission deadline.

February 28, 2025 | All Student Applications submitted either via electronic form must have been submitted to ECLV for consideration by this date.

April 4, 2025 – CA/NV District Competition | ECLV to forward winning submissions to the CA/NV District A.C.E. Chairperson

April 18, 2025 – CA/NV District winners announced.

April 2025 – Early May 2025 | Announce your Club’s honorees. Plan a special recognition for your honorees, inviting their families.

June 1, 2025 | CA/NV District A.C.E. winners are announced and submitted to the National Exchange Club for consideration by the District A.C.E. Chairperson.

June 7, 2025 | CA/NV District A.C.E. winners are honored at the annual District Convention in Irvine, California.

July 9, 2025 | The National A.C.E. winner is honored at the National Convention and awarded $15,000.

Final Thoughts

When a student and counselor join forces, they become a dynamic duo that can unlock incredible opportunities. Working together on the A.C.E. Awards application not only builds a strong mentor-mentee relationship but also boosts the student’s confidence and highlights their achievements. This collaboration paves the way for the student to be recognized and rewarded for their resilience and hard work. It’s a journey that benefits both, fostering growth, inspiration, and the potential for a brighter future. With the counselor’s guidance and the student’s determination, winning the award becomes a shared victory that celebrates overcoming adversity and aiming high.