Celebrating AJ's Legacy – 2026 San Diego Academia Award Recognition

We are humbled and honored to share that the Aris Elijah Pugal Foundation (AEPF) has been selected to receive the 2026 San Diego Academia Awards – Educational Legacy & Empowerment Award. The award is presented by BLU Lapis Media and Sycuan Casino Resort as part of the 6th Annual San Diego Academia Awards, A Celebration of Champions in Education. It honors extraordinary dedication to educational opportunity, community service, and the advancement of future generations.

A Legacy of Giving, Opportunity, and Educational Excellence

AEPF was founded in 2013 in loving memory of our son, Aris Elijah "AJ" Pugal. What began as a tribute to AJ has grown into a mission that has helped more than 500 young people receive financial assistance to pursue higher education. AJ believed that "there is no limit, for the limit is infinite." Those words continue to guide everything we do, from awarding scholarships to encouraging young people to believe in what they can accomplish. In their letter, the San Diego Academia Awards Committee wrote that we have "transformed a legacy of love into a lifetime of opportunity." We are deeply moved by those words.

This Recognition Belongs to All of You

This honor would not have been possible without the continued support of the LB Charitable Foundation (LBCF), our generous golf tournament sponsors, donors, friends, and supporters. Your generosity and belief in our mission have made it possible for us to award scholarships and help deserving young people pursue their educational dreams. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us, believing in AJ's legacy, and helping us turn our love for our son into opportunities that make a lasting difference in the lives of others. You have helped keep AJ's light shining, and we are forever grateful to have you as part of his legacy.

Join Us in Celebrating on December 1st

The AEPF team will attend the 6th Annual San Diego Academia Awards Holiday Dinner Gala on December 1, 2026 to accept the award alongside other distinguished honorees. We look forward to sharing photos from the evening with you soon. With heartfelt gratitude and love, Abdon and Mayet Pugal & The AEPF Team