What’s happening: Sixteen outstanding middle school students from 15 schools across Michigan gathered Wednesday at the State Capitol for the Michigan Chamber Foundation’s 3rd annual National Civics Bee State Finals. After advancing through local chamber competitions, students competed in two live quiz rounds before the top five presented original proposals to address challenges facing their schools or communities – from small business struggles and social media overload to food waste and traffic safety – and answered questions from a panel of judges.
- Carolyn T, an 8th grader at Tappan Middle School in Ann Arbor who advanced through the Canton Chamber of Commerce’s local competition, was crowned Michigan’s 2026 National Civics Bee champion and will represent the Great Lakes State at the national finals in Washington, D.C. this fall.
Why it matters: As America begins its next 250 years, civic knowledge and engagement are more important than ever. Yet:
- Nearly half of Americans don’t know the nation’s 250th anniversary commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence or correctly answer basic civics questions about topics such as the three branches of government.
- At the same time, 9 in 10 Americans believe civic education is important to our country’s success.
What we’re saying: “The National Civics Bee isn’t just about knowing the three branches of government or memorizing historical facts. It’s about encouraging the habits that strengthen democracy – curiosity, listening, critical thinking, thoughtful dialogue, problem solving and civic engagement,” Michigan Chamber President & CEO Jim Holcomb said. “Those are qualities that matter whether you become a teacher, engineer, entrepreneur, public servant or business leader. They’re qualities that move our state and nation forward.”
Holcomb also reminded students that America’s story has never been defined simply by the challenges it has faced, but by citizens willing to step forward, solve problems and build something better together.
The championship finalists: Five students advanced to the live essay presentation and Q&A with a panel of judges representing education, academia and the business community, including a former Michigan Social Studies Teacher of the Year, a political science researcher and a business leader.
- Carolyn T, Tappan Middle School (Ann Arbor) – Canton Chamber of Commerce (Michigan Champion)
- Shivam P, Avondale GATE Magnet School (Rochester Hills) – Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce
- Sanat P, Greenhills School (Ann Arbor) – Canton Chamber of Commerce
- Madhu R, East Middle School (Plymouth) – Canton Chamber of Commerce
- Hadley B, Riley Street Middle School (Hudsonville) – Grand Rapids Chamber
Powered by local partnerships and a statewide effort: The Michigan Chamber Foundation thanks the local chambers that hosted qualifying competitions and helped inspire students across Michigan to become more engaged:
- Bay Area Chamber of Commerce
- Canton Chamber of Commerce
- Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce
- Grand Rapids Chamber
- Howell Area Chamber of Commerce
- Jackson County Chamber of Commerce
Thank you: The Michigan Chamber Foundation also extends its appreciation to this year’s sponsors – Anderson Economic Group, Edge Partnerships, Foley & Lardner, Spence Brothers and Verizon – whose support helped make the program possible. Special thanks as well to volunteer judges Jamie Gluski, Dr. Corwin “Cory” Smidt and Mel Trombley for lending their expertise and encouraging Michigan’s future civic leaders.
Bottom line: Congratulations to all student finalists, their families, educators and community partners who helped make this year’s National Civics Bee possible. Their leadership and ideas inspire us and are a powerful reminder that our next 250 years will be shaped by engaged citizens willing to step up, solve problems and serve their communities.
Learn more or get involved at michamber.com/micivicsbee.