Share:
Waubonsee student Payton Burnett
Waubonsee Community College is proud to announce that student Payton Burnett, of Sugar Grove, has been named a recipient of the Quad County Urban League’s (QCUL) 2026 Youth Empowerment Award.
The Youth Empowerment Award recognizes young individuals who break barriers through exceptional confidence, courage, and leadership. The honor specifically recognizes those who have successfully navigated and overcome the challenges of self-doubt, peer pressure, and societal stereotypes to blaze a trail for others.
“Professionally, this award represents the hard work I’ve put into my education and my growth as a leader. It’s a reminder of the potential I have as I step into these future roles,” said Burnett. “Personally, it motivates me to keep pushing forward. This award doesn't just represent who I am now, but what I’ve overcome to become the woman I want to be.”
At 18 years old, Burnett is studying Aerospace Engineering at Waubonsee with aspirations to have a career in the racecar industry. A high-achieving student, she is a member of the National Technical Honor Society and the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). She is also a recipient of the 2025-2026 QCUL Scholarship.
For Burnett, Waubonsee has offered a high-quality education at an affordable price with a supportive community. “The smaller class sizes create a personable, comfortable learning environment that really stuck out to me,” Burnett said. “My experience has been incredibly positive. I’ve been able to grow in a space where professors are approachable and truly invested in student success. Between the club fairs and organizations like NSLS, I’ve met amazing people who have helped me grow both personally and academically.”
Beyond her own academic pursuits, Burnett remains focused on the bigger picture of community impact and representation in STEM.
“I value mentorship and community, and I hope to one day support others the same way I’ve been supported,” she added.
