Southeast Kentucky Chamber Hosts National Civics Bee Regional Competition at Mountain Arts Center
PRESTONSBURG, KY — The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce hosted the National Civics Bee Regional Competition on April 23. 2026, at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg, welcoming middle school students from across the region for a day of civic engagement and academic competition.
The live competition featured thirteen 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students, representing three Eastern Kentucky counties, who wrote essays identifying a problem within their community and proposing a solution using civic principles. The competition began with two live quiz rounds, testing students’ knowledge of government, history, and civic responsibility. Audience members were also invited to participate alongside the students, adding an interactive element to the event.
The top five students from the quiz round advanced to the final, where they presented their essays to the judges. Finalists included Luke Burgett, Finnley Blevins, Aleena Lafferty, Annabelle Jackson, and Blaze Shelton, all representing May Valley Elementary.
Student presentations addressed a range of issues impacting Eastern Kentucky, including flood prevention and relief, as well as the need for economic development. A panel of judges evaluated the presentations, including Kathy King Allen of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, Tina Terry with Big Sandy Community & Technical College, as well as Dr. Tyler Syck of the University of Pikeville.
"The civics bee is an incredible opportunity that provides middle school students with a rare outlet to come together and think constructively about how to confront the problems that face their community not as a kid but as a future citizen,” said Dr. Syck of the competition.
Following the presentations, judges deliberated while all participants were recognized for their achievements. Each student received a certificate, medal, a $25 Double Kwik gift card, and the tablet used during the quiz portion of the competition.
Winners of the 2026 National Civics Bee Regional Competition were announced as follows:
- First Place: Aleena Lafferty ($500)
- Second Place: Finnley Blevins ($250)
- Third Place: Annabelle Jackson ($125)
The Southeast Kentucky Chamber partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the National Civics Bee initiative to host the event locally. The 2026 Regional Competition was made possible through the support of sponsors including Double Kwik, Appalachian Wireless, and the Mountain Arts Center.
The National Civics Bee aims to encourage young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities, helping to foster the next generation of informed and active citizens.
For more information about the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and upcoming programs, visit www.sekchamber.com
2nd place: Finnley Blevins, 1st place: Aleena Lafferty, 3rd place: Annabelle Jackson
Amy Cloud, Executive Director - Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives; Jordan Gibson, President & CEO - Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce; Finnley Blevins; Aleena Lafferty; Annabelle Jackson; Dalton Hatfield, event emcee, External Affairs Manager - Kentucky Power; Tiffany Coleman, VP of Accounting & Special Events - Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce
The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is located at 178 College Street in Pikeville and serves more than 400 businesses in eight Eastern Kentucky Counties: Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Lawrence, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, and Pike. The Chamber’s mission is to serve the businesses of Southeastern Kentucky through a commitment to networking, advocacy, education, and collaboration as we partner together to enhance the business climate in our region.
Media Contact:
Merisa Ferrell
Director of Programs & Media
Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce
merisa@sekchamber.com
(606) 432-5504
-
Merisa Ferrell Director of Programs & Media
- April 28, 2026
- (606) 432-5504
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