The "sariyah Watson" leadership award

In Loving Memory of Sariyah Watson (2004–2026)

The Sariyah Watson Award was established to honor the unforgettable legacy of Sariyah Watson—a brilliant, driven, and deeply dedicated youth summer leader in The R.O.Y.A.L. Project. At 21 years old, Sariyah was a junior at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and a talented track athlete who effortlessly balanced academic excellence with her passion for running. She was a natural leader among her peers, living with purpose, integrity, and an unmistakable drive toward greatness.

On Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026, Sariyah’s life was tragically cut short in a head-on car crash caused by a wrong-way driver. Though her time on earth was far too brief, her impact on our youth and community remains profound and everlasting.

To ensure her light continues to guide future generations, this annual award recognizes a young woman in The R.O.Y.A.L. Project who exemplifies Sariyah’s core qualities: dedication, perseverance, intelligence, peer leadership, and a steadfast commitment to uplifting Black girls and girls of color.

Recipient Qualifications:

Maintains at least a 3.0 GPA

• Demonstrates consistent, active weekly participation in The R.O.Y.A.L. Project
• Represents the values of The R.O.Y.A.L. Project with pride and integrity in school and the community
• Embodies the spirit of Sariyah Watson—showing courage, lifting others up, and walking confidently toward her own greatness