The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Education and Public Improvement (EPI) Foundation hosted the 2024 National Civics Bee® in Dayton, OH an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. The following students were named the top three finalists of Dayton’s National Civics Bee competition, organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation:
“The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce EPI Foundation was proud to host the National Civics Bee competition in Dayton again this year. As one of the first chambers to pilot this program, we are thrilled with its overall success and continuous growth across the country,” said Linda Ashworth, executive director of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Education and Public Improvement Foundation. “This competition allows our chamber to promote civic engagement and invest in our region’s future leaders.”
“In recent years, Americans’ civics knowledge has fallen significantly, with 53% not being able to name all three branches of government. At the same time, 79% of 8th graders score below proficient in civics,” said Stephanie Keinath, vice president of strategic initiatives, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce. “Through the National Civics Bee, we aim to reverse this trend, and inspire a new generation of Americans to be civically engaged and active in shaping the future of our communities and our nation.”
Ten Dayton region students took part in the local competition after their essays were chosen from among numerous submitted entries. Students participated in a live quiz event and answered questions from judges to test their civic knowledge. Katarina E. from Dayton Regional STEM School took first place, followed by Paige N. from Dayton Regional STEM School and John M. from Graham Middle School for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were: Crystal Allen, president & CEO at the Boys and Girls Club of Dayton, Carolyn Rice, County Commissioner of Montgomery County and Missy Mae Walters, Director of Communications and External Affairs with the Montgomery County Treasurers Office.
The top three finalists impressed the judges with their civic knowledge and passion for their communities. The three finalists were awarded trophies, cash prizes and are invited to compete at the state competition hosted by the Ohio Chamber of Commerce this June.
For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: NationalCivicsBee.org
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