UNM Track & Field Alum Dr. Kwane Stewart Named CNN’s Hero of the Year

Former New Mexico Track & Field standout Dr. Kwane Stewart – a veterinarian that specializes in treating the pets of those experiencing homelessness – has been voted by the general public as CNN’s Hero of the Year for the year of 2023, the outlet announced.

Stewart – who competed in the hurdles for UNM from 1989-1993 and graduated with his bachelor’s degree before going on to earn his veterinary degree at Colorado State – founded his own nonprofit, Project Street Vet, after years of providing direct services by walking city streets to identify individuals. In addition to street work, Project Street Vet also assists with finding financial assistance for pet owners to fund treatment and hosts free pet clinics where owners can receive essential supplies and minor care while establishing relationships that lead to follow-ups.

“It doesn’t matter what your situation is … I see a pet in need, and I see a person who cares for them dearly who just needs some help,” Stewart said in a feature story on his work in CNN.

He and the other top 10 2023 CNN Heroes honored at Sunday’s gala all receive a $10,000 cash award and donation-matching up to $50,000 from The Elevate Prize Foundation, which will also provide organizational and capacity-building support to all of the honorees.

Accepting the award, Dr. Stewart announced he would share the grant among the Top 10 Heroes equally, saying “An act of kindness can change your day. An act or gesture of kindness can change someone’s life.”

In its second year of collaboration with CNN Heroes, global non-profit Elevate Prize Foundation, whose mission is to Make Good Famous and inspire action on an international scale, is awarding an additional $300,000 unrestricted grant to Dr. Stewart.

Read more about Dr. Stewart’s work at Project Street Vet’s page here. You can donate to Stewart’s Project Street Vet and all the Top 10 CNN Heroes’ nonprofit organizations on CNNHeroes.com. The Elevate Prize Foundation is matching donations made directly through CNNHeroes.com up to $50,000 per Hero.