INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation hosted the third annual Indiana Civics Bee on Tuesday at the Indiana War Memorial in downtown Indianapolis. The event tested the civics knowledge of Hoosier school students in grades six to eight by participating in live quiz rounds and gave presentations on issues facing their communities in front of a panel of judges.
The event, presented by Cummins Inc., is part of the National Civics Bee® organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Ayan Reddy from Newburgh was ultimately declared the winner. Reddy, who was representing Castle North Middle School, advocated for more fresh food in school cafeterias to aid students’ health and development via partnerships with Indiana’s local farmers. Reddy received $1,000 and has the opportunity to take part in the National Civics Bee in Washington, D.C., later this year.
Serenity Hayden, from St. John Lutheran School in Kendallville, garnered second place and $500. Meanwhile, Hasini Kosaraju, representing Zionsville West Middle School, was awarded $250 and third place.
The goal of the National Civics Bee is to encourage more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. That aim is one the Indiana Chamber shares for Hoosiers, including it in its latest long-range visioning plan for the state, Indiana Prosperity 2035, as noted by the organization’s president and CEO Vanessa Green Sinders in her opening remarks at the state Civics Bee.
She adds, “We’re incredibly proud of the students who participated in the program and made a deliberate choice to focus on civics and community engagement. The speeches we heard reflected a genuine commitment to making a difference and serving their communities, both locally and beyond.
“Opportunities like the Civics Bee give students, at a critical stage, the chance to develop skills such as public speaking, problem-solving, and teamwork – abilities that will benefit them in every aspect of their future. We’re excited to continue to grow participation in this program.”
This year’s regional National Civics Bee® competitions were held over the past several weeks, featuring inspiring students from across the state who showcased their civic knowledge, leadership skills, and creative ideas to strengthen their communities. Regional partners included the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership, Kendallville Area Chamber of Commerce, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, and Zionsville Chamber of Commerce. Student participation began with an essay submission. This follows a strong Indiana showing from last year as Indiana champion Barrett Hodorek, representing Lakeview Middle School in Warsaw, was the national runner-up and recently appeared on NBC’s “TODAY” show.
“Cummins is proud to be the presenting sponsor for this year’s Civics Bee because we take pride in our corporate responsibility to power the prosperity of the communities where we operate,” says Cummins Chief Administrative Officer and Corporate Secretary Nicole Y. Lamb-Hale. “Our society is better off when our youth are equipped with an understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and how they can make a difference in their communities. After hearing from these bright Civics Bee contestants, l am inspired by their promise and proud to congratulate them on all they have already accomplished.”
The event was also supported by technology sponsor Bill of Rights Institute and supporting sponsors Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Eli Lilly and Co., Kroger, Gardis & Regas, LLP & Indiana Bar Foundation.
For more information on the competition, visit www.indianachamber.com/civicsbee.
