08/13/2026
DePaul is proud to host the 2026 Opus Prize, a prestigious award honoring faith-based leaders whose work addresses some of the world's most persistent social challenges.
The finalists for this year’s prize are:
• Nontsasa Nyovane, Founder and executive director of Siyakhathala (“We Care”) in Cape Town, South Africa, caring for orphans and survivors of abuse through after-school programs, parenting workshops and job training.
• The Rev. Vitaliy Novak, C.M., Founder of Depaul Ukraine, providing humanitarian relief to those displaced by war, and serving as a frontline chaplain in the Ukrainian Air Force.
• The Rev. David Kelly, C.PP.S., Executive director of Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation, leading restorative justice work with youth and families affected by violence right here in Chicago.
Supported by the Opus Prize Foundation, the prize awards $1 million for the laureate and two $100,000 awards for finalists to support their organizations. This year's theme, "Uplifting the Dignity of All," reflects our Vincentian mission on a global stage.
Learn more about each finalist for the 2026 Opus Prize: https://bit.ly/4qzY4PT