Rising Star Awards
Each year, Future Caucus recognizes young legislators and changemakers for political bridge-building and future-focused leadership during our annual Rising Star Awards.
Meet the 2025 Honorees
2025 Jacob K. Javits Prize Recipient
Senator Murkowski’s career has been defined by steady, principled independence. Across nearly four terms in the Senate, she has worked across the aisle to strengthen the nation’s core infrastructure and has been a leading voice on energy modernization and climate resilience. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, she has championed bipartisan efforts to expand access to clean water, improve public safety and sanitation, and support Alaska Native and American Indian communities facing the impacts of a changing climate.
2025 Jacob K. Javits Prize Recipient
Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez exemplifies the cross-partisan courage Sen. Javits championed. She has introduced dozens of bipartisan bills this year, including legislation to help homeless disabled veterans access housing, improve law enforcement officer safety, and expand access to high-speed broadband in rural areas. She also co-led a bipartisan effort to support rural timber communities through innovation in wood products and forest management. Her work proves that real results for real people transcend party lines.
2025 Rising Star Award Recipient
As a biomedical research scientist and public health advocate, Representative Imani Barnes brings a rare blend of scientific expertise and lived experience to policymaking. From advocating for universal school meal access, securing $6.3 million to fund more than 17 million meals annually, to championing mental health and maternal care, her leadership shows that data, compassion, and collaboration can drive meaningful change.
2025 Rising Star Award Recipient
A tireless advocate for opportunity and access, Senator Alexis Calatayud has championed affordable housing, expanded services for individuals with disabilities, and strengthened early education across Florida. Working closely with Democratic Representative Kevin Chambliss, whose district overlaps with hers, she has built bridges across chambers and parties to move her state forward.
2025 Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award Recipients
In Alaska, Representative Justin Ruffridge and Senator Löki Tobin joined forces to strengthen public education — culminating in a rare achievement: overriding two gubernatorial vetoes to secure vital funding for Alaska’s schools, including $50 million for classrooms across the state. Their partnership exemplifies what’s possible when leaders put community above politics.
Over The Years
Building Bridges, Inspiring Change: Reflecting On The 2024 Future Caucus Rising star Awards
November 22, 2024
Building Bridges, Inspiring Change: Reflecting on the 2024 Future Caucus Rising <span class="dewidow">Star Awards</span>
Future Caucus Celebrates A Decade Of Success With Rising star Awards
January 23, 2024
Future Caucus Celebrates a Decade of Success with Rising <span class="dewidow">Star Awards</span>
2022 Rising star Awards
December 19, 2022
2022 Rising <span class="dewidow">Star Awards</span>
“Public service is about finding common ground and focusing on what truly matters to people’s lives. As young lawmakers, we have a responsibility to lead with authenticity, deliver results, and strengthen faith in our community.”
“The Rising Star Award from Future Caucus honors not just my work but the potential of young leaders to bring meaningful, bipartisan solutions to communities across Georgia.”
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