The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce announced on April 8 that three middle school students from the region have advanced to the Colorado state round of the National Civics Bee after a local competition attended by community members and families. The event, held in partnership with founding sponsor the Daniels Fund, is part of a nationwide initiative launched by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to promote civic knowledge and participation among young people.
The program seeks to foster greater understanding of government and encourage active citizenship at an early age. More than 300 applicants entered this year’s contest from across Metro Denver, with 20 finalists selected for the local event. The top three students received cash prizes—$2,500 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third place—with matching donations awarded to their schools. These students will compete at the state level on July 24 in an event hosted by the Colorado Chamber of Commerce.
Corey Rose, morning anchor at 9News, served as emcee for the competition. Special guests included Nick Loyacona from Daniels Fund; Sam Wood from Denver Center for the Performing Arts; and Leslie Oliver from Denver Metro Chamber.
“Programs like the National Civics Bee are critical to building a strong future for our communities, economy and country,” said Leslie Oliver, Vice President of External Affairs at Denver Metro Chamber. “By engaging students at an early age, we’re helping them understand not only how our government works, but how they can play an active role in shaping it. The passion, curiosity and thoughtfulness these students have shown today is a powerful reminder that the next generation is ready to lead, and it’s up to us to continue investing in their civic education and engagement.”
Hanna Skandera, President and CEO of Daniels Fund said: “The Daniels Fund is proud to be the Founding Sponsor of the National Civics Bee to help inspire America’s next generation of leaders… We’re grateful to partners like the Denver Metro Chamber for helping local students become informed, engaged citizens as we celebrate a milestone year for Colorado and our nation.”
Rachel Beck, Executive Director at Colorado Chamber Foundation added: “We’re proud to continue working with our regional partners across Colorado… By investing in civic education, we’re helping prepare young Coloradans to be informed, engaged participants in our democracy. Congratulations to this year’s regional finalists and we look forward to welcoming them to Denver to compete for the state title!”
Winners from each regional contest will advance through state competitions nationwide before competing in Washington D.C., where national champions will be crowned later this fall.
