Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) congratulates the seven high school seniors chosen by their respective schools to represent specific pillars of leadership: Caring, Citizenship, Courage, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility, and Trustworthiness. The Superintendent’s Character Trait Award winners were recognized at the April 21 Board of Education meeting, where they received commemorative certificates.

“The character of these students is not defined by a single achievement, but by the consistent choices they make every day,” said Superintendent Dr. Wesley Smith. “While we recognize these individuals, they represent just a small sample of the many outstanding students across our district. They are leaders in their schools and in our community, reminding us that character truly matters and that our future is in capable hands.”

Join us in congratulating Corona del Mar (CdM) High School's 2026 Superintendent’s Character Trait Award winner:

Caring: Jillian Kaufman

Jillian Kaufman exemplifies caring through intentional action. As a founding member of the ASB Multicultural Committee, Jillian helped design a yearlong plan to highlight a different culture each month, culminating in a Multicultural Fair that brings the CdM community together in celebration and understanding. 

As president of the Jewish Club, she fosters open conversations about identity and belonging, creating a safe space where students can ask questions and build connections across differences. Jillian’s caring nature also shines as an ASB tour guide; when new and prospective students visit campus, she makes it a priority to personally welcome them, answer candid questions, and share her own experiences so they feel comfortable and confident about joining the CdM community.

When student concerns arise, Jillian respectfully brings student perspectives to the administration, seeking solutions and advice to benefit the well-being of others. Whether through leadership, advocacy, or one-on-one conversations, she consistently acts on her belief that belonging matters.

After graduation, Jillian will attend the University of Pennsylvania, where she will continue leading with empathy and purpose.

Together, the seven Superintendent’s Character Trait Award winners reflect the values that define Newport-Mesa Unified School District. Through their actions, both large and small, they demonstrate how character, leadership, and compassion shape strong school communities. NMUSD is proud to recognize these outstanding seniors and celebrate the positive example they set for younger students across the district.