Greater Vancouver Chamber’s National Civics Bee Propels Young Leaders to Shape Tomorrow’s Southwest Washington

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER’S NATIONAL CIVICS BEE PROPELS YOUNG LEADERS TO SHAPE TOMORROW’S SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON 

Twenty middle school students recently competed for the title of Southwest Washington's Civics Bee Champion at the state qualifying round held in Vancouver. 

Vancouver, WA - The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) proudly announced the winners of the state qualifying round of National Civics Bee, an academic competition that tests students' knowledge of civics and government.  

Out of twenty middle school finalists from various school districts across Vancouver, Battle Ground, Evergreen, and La Center, alongside homeschooled and private schools’ students, Devin Spector-Van Zee, a 7th grader, won the title of Southwest Washington’s Civics Bee Champion and a cash prize of $500.  

The competition, held on April 27th at the Prairie High School Auditorium, brought forth the brilliance of young minds as they showcased their understanding of civics principles and government functions. In partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the event fostered an environment of intellectual vigor and spirited competition. 

Participants navigated a rigorous set of questions spanning U.S. government, history, politics, constitutional law, and beyond. An interactive element allowed parents and guests to engage in a fun, parallel competition from the audience using their phones. 

Following the initial round, the top six scorers faced questions from a distinguished panel of judges including Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle of the City of Vancouver, Mayor Troy McCoy of the City of Battle Ground, WA, and Vancouver City Councilor Sarah J. Fox. Finalists, while presenting their previously submitted essays addressing pertinent community issues (such as homelessness, climate change, fast fashion, mental health, vaping, public safety), engaged in insightful discussions with the judges. 

Devin Spector-Van Zee emerged triumphant, followed by Shreya Andey from Shalala Middle School securing second place, and Landon Coy from Cornerstone Christian Academy for Learning and Leadership claiming third place, each awarded cash prizes of $500, $250, and $125, respectively. 

“Standing up in front of 200 people and sharing your thoughts, concerns and solutions is not easy to do. It takes a lot of confidence for someone to raise their hand and say: Yes, I want to do this,” said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. For McEnerny-Ogle, this competition presents a unique opportunity for students to delve deep into issues they find important. It encourages them to conduct thorough research, gather necessary evidence to support their opinions, and effectively present their findings. Additionally, it educates them about the various levels of government and the different agencies available to help address problems. 

The judges lauded the young competitors for their civics prowess and innovative problem-solving approaches. 

Exciting Competition Awaits in Olympia 

The top three winners will now advance to the state Civics Bee event, presented by the Association of Washington Business on June 29th at the Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts at SPSCC (Olympia Campus). The public is encouraged to attend the state final Civics Bee competition. Learn more at: https://www.awb.org/event/2024-national-civics-bee-washington-state-final/  

Championing Civic Engagement 

The National Civics Bee is part of the Greater Vancouver Chamber's commitment to promoting civic education and fostering civic engagement among young students and professionals alike. This event serves as a platform for students to expand their knowledge of civics and develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills.  

“Civic education is the cornerstone of a vibrant and engaged community. Through endeavors like the National Civics Bee, we empower our youth to actively shape the trajectory of Southwest Washington's future. At the Greater Vancouver Chamber, we remain resolute in our mission to cultivate the leaders of tomorrow, individuals poised to ignite positive transformation and foster innovation throughout our region,” said Janet Kenefsky, VP of Operations for the Chamber.   

For more information about the National Civics Bee, please visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/nationalcivicsbee/.    

The 2024 National Civics Bee was proudly sponsored by Columbia Credit Union, United Grain Corporation, The Columbian, Chick-fil-A, and Pepsi. Business leaders interested in sponsoring next year’s event, please email the Greater Vancouver Chamber at yourchamber@vancouverusa.com.