Contributed
The Lovis Foundation is proud to recognize Jackson Backo as a recipient of the 2026 Lovis Extraordinary Student Award, honoring students who lead with kindness, empathy, and a commitment to caring for others.
Jackson is known by those around him as someone with an exceptionally compassionate heart. Long before facing his own medical challenges, he consistently looked for ways to include and support others, especially students who may have felt left out or alone. Teachers often shared how grateful they were for the kindness and encouragement he brought into the classroom each day.
At age 12, Jackson faced a battle with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Even during treatment, his concern remained focused not only on himself, but on the younger children around him who were also experiencing serious illness. Seeing children only four or five years old facing cancer deeply impacted him, and those experiences strengthened his desire to help others in meaningful ways.
After entering remission, Jackson decided he wanted to celebrate by giving back. He organized a toy drive for pediatric oncology patients at his local hospital, helping bring comfort and joy to children currently going through treatment. He has collected over 100 gifts at his first toy drive and is currently planning his next one.
What makes Jackson especially extraordinary is the genuine care he shows for people in both big and small moments. Whether supporting classmates, encouraging younger children, or connecting with adults through his love of movies and music, he brings warmth, kindness, and authenticity into every interaction.
Family and friends describe Jackson as someone who loves deeply and fully. He is known for his incredible knowledge of movies, music, and comic books, especially favorites from the 1980s and 1990s, and for the joy he brings to conversations and relationships with people of all ages.
“Jackson’s compassion shines through in the way he cares for others, even during some of the most difficult moments of his own life,” said Rene Eisele, Founder and President of The Lovis Foundation. “His empathy, resilience, and desire to bring comfort to other children reflect extraordinary strength and heart.”
About the Lovis Student Awards and the Lovis Foundation
The Lovis Student Awards are presented annually by the Lovis Foundation, an Ohio based nonprofit that celebrates students who lead with empathy, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. The Foundation was created in memory of Logan Brinson, whose joyful spirit inspired its motto: “Spread Joy. Hug Often. Be Kind.”
Each year, the Foundation honors students whose actions uplift their communities in meaningful and often unseen ways. From young inventors to peer mentors, these student heroes reflect the very best of what the next generation can be. The awards provide educators and community members with a way to recognize young people who are often overlooked. There is no academic requirement, only a demonstrated commitment to making a difference.
The Lovis Extraordinary Student Award honors 5th through 8th grade students who promote kindness, compassion, and service to others.
The Lovis Hero Award recognizes 9th grade through extended services students who demonstrate resilience and determination in overcoming challenges.
For more information about the Lovis Foundation, to get involved, or to nominate a student, visit lovisfoundation.org.
