Yoshiyama Award selection is based upon service and the opportunity for longer-term social change rather than on academic achievement or extracurricular activities. Grade-point averages, SAT scores, and school club memberships are not considered in the selection process.

To be eligible for the award, candidates must be graduating high school seniors in the U.S. or U.S. territories (nominees need not be college bound); individuals whose activities impacted a socially, economically, or culturally isolated area; nominated by someone familiar with their service (clergy, school official, teacher, service agency representative, etc.); individuals whose activities created longer-term, sustainable social change; individuals whose service has surpassed what is ordinarily expected of a socially responsible citizen; individuals who have demonstrated self-motivation, leadership, creativity, dedication, and commitment in pursuing their service; and individuals who have made a conscious effort to involve and inspire others to participate in community action.

Students must be nominated for the award. Self-nominations and nominations from family members are automatically disqualified.

Visit the Hitachi Foundation Web site, www.hitachifoundation.org, for complete program guidelines and nomination procedures.