12^th Annual Spotlight Awards
Thursday, May 28, 2026

About the Awards Evening

The Spotlight Awards evening is designed to highlight those who have been leaders; have made an impact that benefits people in the state of Kentucky and beyond; and have been innovative in their chosen field. In addition, the awards ceremony is a time for the University to bestow honors on someone who has directly impacted Midway University.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour at 5:00 p.m. followed by dinner and award presentations at 6:45 p.m. for the Pinkerton Vision Award and the Midway University Legacy Award.

The Pinkerton Vision Award

This award honors the legacy of Dr. L.L. Pinkerton, whose vision of the Kentucky Female Orphan School in 1847 established it as the first formal education for orphaned girls on the site that is now Midway University. Criteria for consideration of award recipients includes: a) an individual or group (male or female) who has had a direct impact on improving lives, b) an individual who has served as an outstanding role model, or c) someone who has displayed great leadership, innovative thinking and influence in his/her chosen field. The recipient must be a Kentucky native, resident, or organization located in Kentucky. A committee of college representatives will select the award recipient from the pool of nominations received.

2026 Honoree – Dora Delgado, Executive Vice President & Chief Racing Officer of the Breeders' Cup

Dora Delgado

The Midway University Legacy Award

This award honors a person or persons that have impacted Midway University over a period of many years by giving time, service, support, and/or resources.

2026 Honoree – Anne Bolton, Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, Seneca Wealth Partners

Anne Bolton

About the Live Auction

Each year we assemble an exciting array of packages, experiences, and artwork to auction during the Spotlight Awards. All proceeds from the live auction support ongoing academic programming and student scholarships at Midway University.

Raffle

In the weeks leading up to the event a number of unique products and services will be offered by an online raffle. All funds raised from the raffle will go towards student scholarships, ongoing campus improvements, and academic programs.