DENVER—April 9, Community members and families gathered at the University of Denver’s Maglione Hall to watch the Denver Metro Chamber’s local competition for the National Civics Bee, in partnership with founding partner the Daniels Fund. The National Civics Bee, a program launched by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, aims to create a strong country, economy and workforce through greater civic knowledge and participation. The competition was open to middle schoolers throughout the Metro Denver region. After receiving more than 100 applicants, 20 finalists were selected to participate in the Denver Metro Chamber’s local contest. From the Denver contest, the top three students were awarded cash prizes, and advanced to the state competition, which will be held by the Colorado Chamber of Commerce on May 30.
The competition was emceed by the Host of Colorado Inside Out for PBS12, Kyle Dyer. Special guests included the Grants Program Officer for Daniels Fund, Nick Loyacona; and the Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Media, Film and Journalism, and Faculty Director of Free Expression and Pluralism Initiatives at the University of Denver, Dr. Derigan Silver.
“The Denver Metro Chamber is honored to be a part of the National Civics Bee,” said President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, J. J. Ament. “Recognizing the inner workings of government is vital for every community member, and fostering civic engagement and knowledge is a goal shared by students and adults alike. We hope that each student leaves today’s event with a newfound enthusiasm for civics, carrying this drive into all their future endeavors.”
After three rounds of civics-based questions, the top students were awarded first, second and third place, and cash prizes. These prize amounts are also matched as a donation to the winners’ schools. The prizes and winners are listed below:
- Emerson H., Kent Denver – $2,500
- Valerie W., Kent Denver – $1,000
- Laasya P., Leman Academy of Excellence – $500
“The hope for the Civics Bee, is not just to establish a basic and fundamental understanding of the American founding documents and civics principles or to win some cash prizes,” said Grants Program Officer for the Daniels Fund, Nick Loyacona. “It is also to cultivate an appreciation of the American form of government and to forge a new patriotism directly from the founders’ revolutionary idea of self-government.”
The top three students from each regional competition are advancing to the Colorado State National Civic Bee competition on May 30. Top students from state competitions across the country will compete at the national competition in Washington, D.C. this fall.
“We’re proud to continue working with our local chamber partners for the third consecutive year, reinforcing our commitment to fostering active participation in government and democracy among young Coloradans,” said Colorado Chamber President and CEO, Loren Furman. “Investing in our future means investing in civic education, and it’s inspiring to see this program continue to grow every year. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to participate in our democracy, we’re building a brighter future for our state and nation. Congratulations to this year’s regional finalists and we look forward to hosting them in Denver to compete for the state title!”
This event was presented by its founding partner, the Daniels Fund. Event sponsor for the contest was the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The event partner for the contest was the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority.
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About the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce:
The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce (DMCC) is the architect of tomorrow, igniting change and driving progress to build dynamic economies and communities. We champion innovation, forge powerful partnerships, and relentlessly advocate for our members and all Coloradans. With more than 150 years of trust and impact, we help business flourish.
The DMCC’s vision is Economic Empowerment for Every Coloradan and is achieved by advocating for effective public policy, developing civic leaders, and driving a sustainable economy. We promote a vibrant economy by fostering a business-friendly environment, supporting a skilled workforce and facilitating connections. Dedicated to boosting business and employee opportunities, the Chamber drives sustainable growth and prosperity across Colorado.
About the Daniels Fund:
The Daniels Fund, established by cable television pioneer Bill Daniels, is a private charitable foundation dedicated to making life better for the people of Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming through its grants program, scholarship program, and ethics initiative. Visit DanielsFund.org to learn more.