Walt Disney World Resort recognizes Central Florida students who have excelled in their academic achievements and civic efforts, naming them Disney Dreamers & Doers Shining Stars.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., April 21, 2014 – Central Florida’s youngest humanitarians and community service leaders are invited to come forward and be recognized as Disney Dreamers and Doers. Through April 25, the Disney Dreamers and Doers Program is accepting nominations for local students who inspire others as role models in their community, at school or in their homes.

Whether their energies are focused on helping their families, classmates and fellow kids, or community causes – students are asked to nominate themselves for their good deeds and service. From tutoring younger students to leading a food drive to overcoming challenges and improving their grades – Disney Dreamers and Doers nominees make a difference through dedication and kindness.

“It’s an honor to recognize the compassion, vision and hard work of these exceptional young people, who act on their dreams of changing the world for the better,” said Nancy Gidusko, director of community relations for Walt Disney World Resort. “The positive impact these students make on Central Florida is an inspiration to everyone here at Walt Disney World Resort.”

Based on self-nominations from students, school principals throughout Central Florida will select one student to represent their classmates as Dreamers and Doers. From the students chosen as their school’s Dreamer and Doer, a panel of Disney judges will select up to 15 Shining Stars from public and private elementary, middle and high schools in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Polk counties. Considered the best of the best, these students consistently demonstrate outstanding character, lead by example and have a caring spirit.

In recognition of their accomplishments, Disney Dreamers and Doers receive four Walt Disney World theme park tickets, an honorary certificate and award medallion. Students later selected as Shining Stars will receive a Mickey Mouse statue known as a “Mousecar,” Walt Disney World annual theme park passes for themselves and their immediate family, a gold medallion and recognition at their respective schools.

Last year, about 400 students were recognized as Disney Dreamers and Doers, bringing the total to more than 12,000 since the program began. As part of its ongoing commitment to local children and education, Walt Disney World Resort has awarded Disney Grants for five school districts and early learning coalitions, sponsored of A Gift For Teaching, as well as donated clothing and millions of school supplies to students in the past year.