The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Hosts National Civics Bee® 

Regional Competition in Anchorage for Middle Schoolers 

[ANCHORAGE, AK]—Saturday, March 28th, the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee in Anchorage, Alaska, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. 

Organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civic knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities.

“Each year, the National Civics Bee reminds us how much promise and talent exists in communities across the country. Students step up with thoughtful solutions, bold ideas, and a willingness to participate—exactly the qualities our democracy and workforce need. We’re proud to support a program that strengthens civic knowledge and skills for all young people and helps build the foundation for a stronger future.” said Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Students across the country submitted essays on issues in their communities, which were then reviewed by a distinguished panel of judges. Top students were selected to compete in the Anchorage Chamber’s Regional Competition: an in-person, live event moderated by Skye Nevada, featuring two rounds of civics quiz questions followed by a Q&A in which students discussed their proposals for improving their communities. 

William C. from Romig Middle School took first place, followed by Elara B. from Gruening Middle School and Catherine D. from Romig Middle School for second and third places, respectively. 

The judges for this year’s competition were: 

• Dr. Terry Nelson
• COL Stephen Polacek
• Felix Rivera

The top three finalists impressed the judges with their original ideas, insights, and commitment to community improvement. Their ability to not only articulate the challenge and innovate an original solution, but integrate the Founding Principles and Civic Virtues ensured they were considering actions with respect, integrity, and equality.

“Hosting a regional competition for the National Civics Bee® has presented a significant opportunity for our organization to have an upstream impact on community civic engagement,” says Anchorage Chamber President & CEO Kathleen McArdle. “We have learned the youth of today are watching us, and their input on the world they will inherit is extremely valuable. Congratulations to all of our finalists, we are rooting for you in this competition and beyond!”

The first-place winner received a $500 cash prize and will advance to the state competition in June hosted by the Alaska Chamber along with other top finalists. The top state winners will receive various prizes, up to $1,000. 

The state’s first-place winner will earn a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Championship in the Fall of 2026, where they can win a grand prize of a $100,000 contribution to a 529 plan. The second-place finalist will receive $25,000, and the third-place National finalist will receive $15,000. 

For more information on the National Civics Bee, visit: https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/ 

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MEDIA CONTACT: 

Kathleen McArdle, President & CEO

Anchorage Chamber of Commerce

kathleen@anchoragechamber.org

907-677-7109
 

About the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce

The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, member-driven business organization with over 750 members representing more than 50,000 employees. For over 100 years, the Anchorage Chamber has served as a resource where members can gain business knowledge, insight and strength. More information about the Anchorage Chamber is available at AnchorageChamber.org or by calling (907) 272-2401.  

About U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation   

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.     

About the National Civics Bee®  

The National Civics Bee, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is an annual nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics education and literacy among middle school students, their families, and communities. The National Civics Bee helps elevate civics as a national priority through a network of state, regional, and local organizations across the country. The National Civics Bee is made possible through the generous support of its founding partner, the Daniels Fund, as well as Carnegie Corporation of New York, Citizen Travelers, and other funders.