The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) proudly hosted the region’s first Civics Bee on April 30 at the Shanklin Theatre on the campus of University of Evansville, welcoming top middle school students from across Southwest Indiana to showcase their knowledge of government, democracy, and community leadership.
The competition was held in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and its civic engagement initiative, The Civic Trust, as part of the nationwide National Civics Bee program designed to inspire young Americans to engage in civics and strengthen their understanding of American democracy.
Students from public, private, charter, and homeschool programs across Southwest Indiana were invited to submit essays outlining how they would improve their communities using civic principles as a guide. Finalists advanced to a live competition featuring quiz rounds and Q&A sessions before a panel of community leaders, with support from teachers, family members, and peers in attendance.
The inaugural regional competition recognized the following student winners, who will advance to the Indiana State Finals of the National Civics Bee on June 23 in Indianapolis:
- 1st Place: Ayan R., Castle North Middle School
- 2nd Place: Arav A., Evansville Day School
- 3rd Place: Alexandra O., Plaza Park International Prep Academy
The state champion will receive a donation for their school and earn the opportunity to compete at the national finals in Washington.
“Events like the Civics Bee remind us just how capable and thoughtful our middle school students really are,” said Kara Yates, E-REP’s Chief Workforce and Education Officer. “These students are already demonstrating leadership, critical thinking, and a genuine interest in how their communities and country work. Civics education matters because it helps young people understand not only the laws and policies that shape our future, but also the role they can play in leading positive change. The future of our region is incredibly bright when students are stepping up and engaging at this level so early.”
E-REP also recognized the sponsors who helped make the event possible, including Fifth Third Bank as Technology Sponsor, University of Evansville as Venue Sponsor, Mead Johnson Nutrition as Civics Advocate, and League of Women Voters of Southwestern Indiana as Bee Benefactor. For more information about the National Civics Bee, visit the National Civics Bee website. Additional information regarding the 2027 regional National Civics Bee competition and application process will be announced at a later date.
