A couple of months ago, our Kindness Carries On Class of 2026 packed their bags, said goodbye to home, and headed off to campuses across the country. So we did what any proud family does. We checked in.

We asked our seven recipients how their first few months have gone, what the scholarship has meant, and how they are carrying Knox’s kindness into brand new communities. What came back was homesickness and new friendships, late-night studying and sorority gumbo cook-offs, weather labs, and handwritten notes. Different schools, different majors, one shared thread: kindness carries on.

Here they are, in their own words.

Brayson Newberry

Texas Tech University

Brayson is settling into the rhythm of college life, with one honest adjustment. “They have gone good. I’ve had to adjust how much time I put towards studying, but that’s the only big adjustment.”

His advice for this year’s seniors is as simple as it is true to the scholarship’s spirit. “Be yourself and the scholarship will come along with it. Do not change yourself and always remember to strive for kindness.”

Jocelyn Curtin

Lamar University

For Jocelyn, the scholarship became about something bigger than any grant. “It has shown me something that matters so much more than grades, money, or perfection. Being noticed and awarded for something so authentic to me had me realize there is so much more to these next chapters of my life. It’s encouraged me to stay true to myself, my kindness, and how I choose to carry it forward every day.”

She has already put that into action through her sorority’s philanthropy event, a gumbo cook-off benefiting breast cancer research. “I loved being there to help organize the event, taste teams’ gumbo, and social with my community. Kindness is more than just a single compliment or opening the door for someone. Kindness can be all around in the conversations you have and connections you make in your community too.”

Robert Petti

University of Oklahoma

Robert is chasing his passion, and loving it. “College has been the best experience of my life thus far. I’m able to study my passion, meteorology, and spend all the time in the world with like-minded people and challenge myself to be the best person I can.”

He found a way to give back through that same passion. “I’ve joined the Oklahoma Weather Lab, where I’m able to participate in forecasts that are publicly broadcast, allowing me to contribute to my community. I’ve also tried my best to help my friends, classmates, and colleagues daily in any way possible. Whether it be guidance on an assignment, having a conversation, or just holding a door open for someone, the best part of my day is creating moments that lift someone’s mood.”

Ava Ashe

Texas Christian University

Ava arrived grateful and ready to grow. “Every morning I wake up so grateful to have higher education, to learn about topics I’m passionate about, and to figure out what being an adult means.” Her first months brought a lesson she did not expect. “I have realized that grief and struggle can live right next to gratitude and joy. On the hard days, I’m learning I don’t have to pick one, and that is okay!”

The scholarship, she says, means more than she can put into words. “The financial blessing has made a huge impact on my time at TCU, and I will never take it for granted. But it is more than that, it is an honor to be recognized for my values and actions that carry on the impact for someone as special as Knox. This scholarship reminds me every day that kindness is never wasted!”

Cody Surratt

Texas A&M University

Cody found his community fast at College Station. “Texas A&M has made the transition to college very easy by providing so many opportunities to get connected with others and involved in the Aggie culture.” His biggest surprise? “Just how much free time you actually have in college. When you take initiative and are smart with your time, you are able to accomplish a lot while still making time to enjoy the college experience.”

He carries the scholarship with him as a daily reminder. “It has been such a huge motivator in my life here at College Station to continue spreading kindness and looking for ways to add value wherever I am. Being a recipient of this scholarship has served as a constant reminder to be more intentional with my interactions with others, being more selfless with my time, and living out the values that this scholarship represents.”

Harper Teague

Samford University

Harper turned the hard parts of freshman year into a reason to look out for others. “Being a freshman has given me an understanding for what we are all going through. This has allowed me to be intentional with others I interact with on campus. Whether it’s remembering someone’s name, saying ‘hi’ around campus, or sitting with someone alone in the dining hall, I try to make people feel seen wherever I go.”

Her advice for the next class carries that same hope. “Focus on what they can control and don’t take the things you have for granted. Just because new horizons are approaching doesn’t mean the sun has set just yet. Be intentional and grateful for what is in your life now and look with hope toward the future.”

She also had a message for the foundation. “I still appreciate all y’all have done for me! Not just the scholarship but the award night and all the support. Thank you to everyone! Y’all have made a difference.”

Ava Jimenez

University of Arkansas

For Ava, the biggest challenge was distance, and the biggest reward was growth. “One of my biggest challenges has definitely been being a whole state away from home and learning how to be independent. I miss my family a lot. At the same time, I have met so many amazing people and built a new community of friends who have made Arkansas feel more like home. College has pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow as a person.”

Her advice closes the circle on everything this scholarship stands for. “Take every opportunity that comes your way and never be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone! Get involved, meet new people, volunteer, and always remember the importance of being kind to others. You never know how much a small act of kindness can mean to someone. Most importantly, trust the process, enjoy this exciting time in your life, and remember to carry kindness with you wherever you go!”

Carrying it on

Seven students. Seven campuses. And in every answer, the same thing Knox knew at twelve years old: kindness is never wasted, and the smallest moments are often the ones that matter most.

We could not be prouder of the Kindness Carries On Class of 2026. Watching them spread kindness in their new communities is the clearest proof we have that Knox’s legacy is alive and growing. This is only the beginning for them, and we cannot wait to see all they accomplish.

Know a senior who lives each day a 10 out of 10? Nominations for the 2026 Kindness Carries On Scholarship are the best way to help carry on Knox’s legacy. Nominate a student, take the Kindness Pledge, or support our scholarships at livelikeknox.com. Kindness carries on.