GNDC Announces Winner of the 2026 National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals

BISMARCK, ND –Today, the Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals at the North Dakota State Capitol’s Brynhild Haugland Room in Bismarck—an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Chilaka U., Emily G., and Elsa B. were named the top three finalists of the competition, organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
 
“Strong communities and strong economies both depend on engaged citizens who understand how government works and how they can make a difference. At a time when civic knowledge is declining across the country, programs like the National Civics Bee help equip the next generation with the skills, confidence, and sense of responsibility needed to lead. Today’s finalists demonstrated that North Dakota’s future is in capable hands, and we’re proud to celebrate their commitment to strengthening their communities,” said Arik Spencer, President and CEO of the Greater North Dakota Chamber.
 
Middle School student finalists advanced to the North Dakota State Finals after competing in local chamber competitions across the state. The event featured two rounds of civics-based questions, followed by a live Q&A round where students presented thoughtful, original solutions to real-world community issues.
 
First Place: Chilaka U., from Our Redeemer’s Christian School, Minot
Second Place: Emily G., from Central Middle School, Minot
Third Place: Elsa B., from Central Middle School, Minot
 
Judges for the competition included:

• Chad Calvert, Senior Director of State Government Affairs, Chevron
• Kayla Pulvermacher, Government Relations Manager, Midco
• Ryan Taylor, Director of Public Policy, Ducks Unlimited and former North Dakota Senator 

Finalists received cash prizes, with $1,000 awarded to the first-place winner. As North Dakota’s champion, Chilaka will advance to the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington, D.C. Prizes at the national competition include a $100,000 529 college savings plan for first place, $25,000 for second, and $15,000 for third.
 
“It feels nervously exciting to represent North Dakota; what a privilege to have this opportunity,” said Chilaka. “I’m proud to engage in civics and hope others are investing time for the betterment of their community.” The focus of his essay and presentation was on access to adult mental health services. Emily and Elsa’s essays were, respectively, themed on conservation and the foster care system.
 
This marks North Dakota’s second year participating in the National Civics Bee program. Following last year’s successful inaugural competition and national representation, the program continues to grow civic knowledge, leadership, and community engagement opportunities for students across the state.
 
For more information, visit ndchamber.com/national-civics-bee-north-dakota-state-final.