The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy is pleased to announce the ten winners of the 6th Annual Civics Challenge. This online civics competition, open to students in grades 6 through 12, invites them to choose a civics education topic and express their knowledge through an essay, short video, or original song.
“We are amazed by the knowledge, creativity and talent these students have demonstrated,” Institute President and CEO Sarah Suggs said. “Justice O’Connor was committed to civics education and the tremendous interest in our Civics Challenge is inspiring as we look to future generations to lead our nation. We congratulate all of the winners and honorable mention recipients for their commitment to civics.”
The winners of the middle and high school categories are listed alphabetically below. Each student earned a $500 cash prize.
Middle School Winners:
- Hunter C., 7th Grade, Buffalo Grove, IL
- Ilyannie G., 8th Grade, Tacoma, WA
- James F., 7th Grade, Phoenix, AZ
- Silas H., 8th Grade, West Chester, PA
- Yuna J., 8th Grade, Moorestown, NJ
High School Winners:
- Jonathan C., 11th Grade, Phoenix, AZ
- Maddox L., 12th Grade, Roswell, GA
- Rory D., 12th Grade, Simi Valley, CA
- Shai R., 11th Grade, Burlingame, CA
- Tucker E., 9th Grade, Westport, CT
In addition, the Institute is pleased to commend the following honorable mentions in each category.
Middle School Honorable Mentions:
- David U., 8th Grade, Manhattan Beach, CA
- David W., 8th Grade, Desoto, TX
- Elane F., 8th Grade, Laguna Niguel, CA
- Maria B., 8th Grade, King of Prussia, PA
- Sonya V., 8th Grade, Parisippany, NJ
High School Honorable Mentions:
- Amelia N., 9th Grade, Stamford, CT
- Frances A., 12th Grade, Napa, CA
- Laila S., 11th Grade, Washington, D.C.
- Matilda F., 9th Grade, Montpelier, VT
- Naina D., 11th Grade, San Jose, CA
- Ronan P., 12th Grade, Metuchen, NJ
- Rudra P., 12th Grade, Tampa, FL
- Travis D., 11th Grade, Mazomanie, WI
Winning entries and additional information on the Civics Challenge and other Institute programs are available at Civics Challenge Winners. Details for the next Annual Civics Challenge will be announced in September 2025.