TEA is proud to celebrate Oliver Blumberg, Class of 2026, who was recently recognized by Dream Volunteers as one of two recipients of their 2025 Legacy of Service Award. This honor reflects Oliver’s long-standing commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy rooted in care for both people and the planet.

Over the years, Oliver has consistently shown up for his community, serving multiple terms on TEA’s Student Advisory Board and participating in service-learning experiences in Guatemala, Costa Rica, Vietnam, and Ghana. Across cultures and continents, he has approached this work with humility, curiosity, and a genuine desire to contribute meaningfully.

Oliver traces his passion for service back to his first trip to Costa Rica. Experiencing a new landscape, a significant cultural shift, and strong connections with people there sparked something lasting.

“Most importantly,” he shared, “I made an impact, and I wanted to continue to do that.”

That experience inspired him to return and deepen his engagement year after year.

He sees this work as closely aligned with TEA’s values.

“TEA cultivates students who are global citizens and change-makers,” Oliver reflected. “This summer service work aligns perfectly with that and has really contributed to my development in that way.”

His journey exemplifies advocacy in action through learning, listening, and thoughtful participation.

When asked what advice he would give to other young people considering service work, Oliver was clear.

“Absolutely do it,” he said. “It gives you an unparalleled sense of perspective about the world, and I don’t think there’s much that’s more important right now.”

We are grateful for Oliver’s leadership and the way he embodies TEA’s commitment to character, advocacy, and global citizenship. His work reminds us that service, when done with care and humility, can create lasting impact