FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Michelle Wimmer
Board Member and Trustee
michelle@seut.net
SEUT.net

Students for Ethical Use of Technology (SEUT) Announces Annual Scholarship Winner, Finalists, and Launch of National Chapter Founders Initiative

Bordentown, New Jersey — 7/31/2026 — Students for Ethical Use of Technology (SEUT) today announced the winner and top finalists for its annual scholarship, celebrating outstanding student leaders who demonstrate a deep commitment to championing responsibility, ethics, and human-centered design in the digital age.

Out of more than 900 applicants from across the country, Marcus Castillo from United States Senate Page School has been named the overall winner of the annual scholarship for his exceptional essay and leadership vision.

Alongside Marcus Castillo, SEUT is proud to recognize twelve outstanding top finalists:

  • Deborah Joshi Samuel

  • Rilyn Rodgers

  • Xavier Perry

  • Evan Sidio

  • Navya Arora

  • Allizon Carrera

  • Alanya Jamison

  • Long Nguyen

  • Felix Lee

  • Gabrielle Gelber

  • Naval Shah

  • Advait Kothuri

The selection committee evaluated submissions based on critical thinking, vision for ethical technology, and personal commitment to driving positive change in their communities. Each finalist brought forward compelling perspectives on how technology impacts privacy, mental health, society, and governance.

"Marcus distinguished himself through his insightful reflection on balance and responsibility in technology", said Co-Founder and Executive Director, Sharon Chae Haver. 

Student essays can be read on our website at SEUT.net. 

Kicking Off the SEUT Chapter Founders Initiative

In tandem with the scholarship announcement, SEUT is officially launching its Chapter Founders Program. SEUT Chapter Founders are passionate student leaders who step up to establish initial SEUT chapters at their high schools.

Youth voices are vital to shaping the future of technology. By establishing local chapters, these student leaders create spaces for peer-led dialogue, ethics workshops, digital wellness awareness, and community advocacy. The Chapter Founders program serves as the cornerstone of SEUT’s effort to build an active, grassroots movement across schools nationwide.

About SEUT

Students for Ethical Use of Technology (SEUT) is dedicated to empowering the next generation to navigate, critique, and shape technology responsibly. SEUT brings together students, educators, and technology advocates to foster critical awareness around artificial intelligence, data privacy, tech ethics, and digital well-being.

SEUT’s core goals include:

  • Educating youth on ethical considerations in emerging technologies.

  • Empowering student leaders to advocate for human-centered technology policies in their schools and communities.

  • Building a nationwide network of ethical technology champions through local chapters, events, and mentorship.

How to Get Involved

SEUT invites community members, educators, professionals, and students to join the movement:

  • Students: Apply to become a Chapter Founder at your school or join an existing local chapter.

  • Adult Volunteers & Mentors: Support student leaders as advisors, guest speakers, or chapter mentors.

  • Donors & Partners: Fund scholarships, student initiatives, and educational programming to keep programs accessible to all youth.

To read the winning essays, learn more about our scholarship program, or get involved as a volunteer or donor, visit SEUT.net.

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