DePaul University to Host 2026 Opus Prize Ceremony
The humanitarian award ceremony will take place on October 29, 2026, at the Holtschneider Performance Center in Chicago.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Awards
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DePaul University will host the 2026 Opus Prize awards ceremony on October 29, 2026, to honor three global humanitarian finalists. The event highlights the work of leaders dedicated to social justice and humanitarian relief across the globe.
Why it matters
DePaul University was selected as the host because its Vincentian mission aligns with the humanitarian goals of the Opus Prize Foundation. The award recognizes impactful grassroots efforts while bringing international attention to diverse social challenges.
The grand prize winner receives $1 million, while each of the two runners-up is awarded $100,000. These grants support organizations like Nontsasa Nyovane's Siyakhathala, which assists 360 children in South Africa.
The players
Nontsasa Nyovane
She is the founder of Siyakhathala, a nonprofit organization established in 2009 that provides support to children in South Africa.
David Kelly
The Reverend David Kelly is the founder of a restorative justice organization in Chicago that has operated since 2002.
Vitaliy Novak
Fr. Vitaliy Novak serves as the founding CEO of DePaul Ukraine and works to address homelessness exacerbated by military occupation.
The details
The event at the Holtschneider Performance Center concludes a process where ambassadors visited project sites in South Africa, Romania, and Chicago. Finalists include leaders working on restorative justice and supporting populations displaced by conflict, such as the 46% of homeless Ukrainians impacted by military action.
Timeline
David Kelly founded a restorative justice organization in Chicago in 2002.
Nontsasa Nyovane started the nonprofit Siyakhathala in 2009.
War began in Ukraine in 2022, leading to increased homelessness in the region.
Finalists participate in a morning dialogue session on October 28, 2026.
The official Opus Prize awards ceremony takes place on October 29, 2026.
Culture Shift
The selection of the host institution follows the Vincentian mission of DePaul University, which prioritizes social justice work. This event extends that institutional commitment by providing a global stage for humanitarian leaders whose work mirrors the university's focus on service.
Chicago residents can attend the ceremony at the Holtschneider Performance Center to learn more about international humanitarian efforts. The event provides an opportunity for the local community to engage directly with leaders addressing global issues like restorative justice and homelessness.
The takeaway
The Opus Prize ceremony highlights the vital role of grassroots organizations in tackling complex humanitarian issues such as poverty and displacement. By celebrating these finalists, the foundation encourages continued public support for community-driven social services.
Further reading
For more on local honors and global recognition, visit the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The DePaulia.
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