South Brunswick Student Wins PETA Award, To Celebrate With Vegan Ice Cream Party At School

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ – A 12-year-old South Brunswick student has converted his passion for animal welfare into recognition on a national stage.

Lionel Burton of Kendall Park recently won PETA Kids' 2025 All-Star for Animals Contest. This has earned his school a visit from PETA's vegan ice cream truck.

Crossroads Middle School will host a dairy-free dessert party on Friday for more than 1,000 students and staff to celebrate Burton’s achievement.

The event will highlight the middle schoolers’ dedication to causes ranging from opposing bear hunting in New Jersey to protesting the fashion industry's use of animal products.

Burton has been vegan since age four. His activism extends well beyond dietary choices. He also opposes the use of animals as 4H “projects” at the county fair, and attends the New York City Animal Liberation March.

At local vegan festivals, he distributes educational materials about compassionate eating while sharing his favorite plant-based foods with classmates and fellow church members during vegan potlucks.

"From marching for animal liberation to encouraging everyone to choose animal-friendly foods, Lionel's compassion for animals sets a shining example for young people everywhere," Marta Holmberg, PETA's Vice President of Youth Programs, said in a statement.

"Animals have a remarkable ally in Lionel, and PETA Kids is delighted to honor him for leading us all toward a kinder future."

Beyond his advocacy, Burton pursues diverse interests. He trains regularly for 5K races, drawing inspiration from wolves – his favorite animal – for long-distance running. He is also interested in drumming and theater. He is also passionate about caring for his rescue dog Ariel. In the future, Burton hopes to collaborate with his father on affordable housing projects to help ensure everyone has shelter.

The recognition from PETA comes with several prizes beyond the school ice cream party. This includes a trophy, vegan cookies from Lunchbox, and a PETA Kids T-shirt.

PETA Kids will feature Burton’s story on their website to inspire other young advocates.

PETA's "I Scream" truck is currently touring nationwide to promote vegan ice cream as a kinder alternative for animals, diners, and the environment. It will make additional stops in Newark this weekend.

Those interested in trying the dairy-free treats can inquire about specific times and locations.

More information about PETA Kids is available at PETAKids.com or through their Facebook and Instagram pages.

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