HW Foundation Opens Nominations for Inaugural 50 Under 50 in AI; Deadline Oct. 16
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PRINCETON, N.J. - illiNews -- HW Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is accepting nominations through Oct. 16, 2026 for the inaugural 50 Under 50 in AI, a new recognition honoring 50 leaders under age 50 whose work is shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

The recognition elevates people who are doing more than using AI. Nominees may be building AI solutions, leading organizational transformation, conducting research, educating the workforce, advancing responsible AI, building businesses, or using artificial intelligence to create measurable human and social impact across industries.

"Artificial intelligence is changing how we work, lead, build businesses, educate, deliver care and create opportunity," said Dr. Lendra James, DNP, MS, RN, NE-BC, founder and president of HW Foundation and a Certified AI Consultant. "But behind every meaningful advancement are people making decisions about how this technology is built and used. We created 50 Under 50 in AI to recognize the people behind that progress."

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A Selection Committee with expertise in workforce development, higher education, healthcare and AI will review each eligible nomination using a standardized scoring process. Nominees should demonstrate AI leadership, measurable impact, innovation and problem-solving, responsible AI and human impact, contribution to the broader AI ecosystem, and supporting evidence.

"This is not about who has the largest following or the loudest voice in AI," James said. "It is about identifying people whose work demonstrates real contribution, leadership and impact. We want to elevate the people who are not only talking about what AI can become, but are actively shaping what comes next."

Eligible nominees must be under age 50 as of Nov. 1, 2026 and be based in, working in, or making their primary professional contribution within the United States. Self-nominations and nominations of others are welcome.

Nominations close Oct. 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Selected individuals will be named 2026 50 Under 50 in AI Honorees and recognized at an inaugural ceremony.

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To nominate yourself or someone you know, visit https://hwfoundationus.org/50under50inai

About HW Foundation
HW Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that expands access to opportunity by connecting individuals and communities to education, workforce development, emerging technology, leadership and pathways to economic mobility. The Foundation builds programs and partnerships that help people develop the skills, resources, confidence and connections they need to pursue sustainable careers, entrepreneurship, improved well-being and meaningful leadership in their communities. HW Foundation presents the Health & Wealth Expo and 50 Under 50 in AI.

Media Contact
Dr. Lendra James
HW Foundation
hwfoundationus.org