MITCHELL — A talented group of local researchers is heading to the state capital after a dominant performance at the National History Day in Indiana (NHDI) regional contest this past Saturday, March 7.
Students from Mitchell Junior High School joined peers from Jennings County to present months of in-depth historical research centered on this year’s global theme: “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.”
Mitchell’s Rising Historians
Two standout projects from Mitchell earned the “Top Finalist” distinction, securing their spots in the upcoming state competition:
- Junior Individual Documentary: Ava Seitzinger captivated judges with her film, “The ‘No’ That Sparked Revolution,” which explored a pivotal moment of defiance in historical change.
- Junior Group Exhibit: The team of Colt Bergmann, Daigen Martin, Lucian Barnhart, and Ryan Ye advanced with their detailed visual analysis of the “Underground Railroad.”
The Road to State
The Mitchell students will now join other regional winners at Marian University on April 18, 2026, for the NHDI State Contest.
National History Day is a yearlong academic program for students in grades 4–12. Participants are tasked with conducting extensive primary and secondary source research, a process that IHS CEO Jody Blankenship says is vital for modern education.
“Seeing the level of curiosity and dedication these students bring to their projects is incredibly inspiring,” Blankenship said. “Events like this highlight how history education helps students strengthen research, storytelling, and analytical skills.”
2026 State Finalists: Mitchell & Jennings County
Junior Paper
- “The Man that Molded Modern Architecture” – Carliegh Collins (Jennings County Middle School)
Junior Individual Documentary
- “The ‘No’ That Sparked Revolution” – Ava Seitzinger (Mitchell Jr High School)
Junior Individual Exhibit
- “Prohibition Era” – Daphne Ritchie (Jennings County Middle School)
- “Reactions to the Berlin Wall” – Emma Owsley (Jennings County Middle School)
Junior Group Exhibit
- “Rosie the Riveter” – Madison Allen, Sydney Campbell (Jennings County Middle School)
- “The French Revolution’s Antagonist: King Louis XVI” – Mason Foist, Savannah Arney (Jennings County Middle School)
- “Underground Railroad” – Colt Bergmann, Daigen Martin, Lucian Barnhart, Ryan Ye (Mitchell Jr High School)
Senior Individual Documentary
- “From Campus Protest to Courtroom Reform: The Revolutionary Impact of Hess V. Indiana” – Whitney Barber (Jennings County High School)
For more information about National History Day in Indiana, visit www.indianahistory.org/historyday or call 317-232-1882.
