National Civics Bee highlights future Hoosier leaders

Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 12:11 PM

By Staff report

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and local chambers of commerce across Indiana to host the National Civics Bee Indiana State Finals. Presented by Cummins Inc., 15 statewide finalists will compete on June 23 at the Indiana War Memorial in Indianapolis.

The event crowns the winning civic champion for Indiana and allows that student to move on and compete in the nation's capitol.

The Civics Bee encourages all Hoosier middle school students in grades 6-8 to engage in civics and contribute to their communities and is modeled on traditional spelling and geography bees. Students can win recognition and earn cash prizes by sharing ideas for improving their communities and showing their enthusiasm for civics.

The winner of the National Civics Bee® Indiana State Finals will be invited to Washington, D.C. to compete in the national championship in Fall 2026.

"Encouraging greater civic participation among all Hoosiers is a key priority of the Indiana Chamber's long-term vision, Indiana Prosperity 2035," explains Indiana Chamber president and CEO Vanessa Green Sinders. "Fostering a strong understanding of American democracy – along with respectful, constructive and collaborative community engagement – is essential to strengthening trust in one another and in our institutions."

This year's regional National Civics Bee competitions were held over the past several weeks, featuring inspiring students from across the state who showcased their civic knowledge, leadership skills and creative ideas to strengthen their communities. Regional partners included the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership, Kendallville Area Chamber of Commerce, Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce and Zionsville Chamber of Commerce. Student participation began with an essay submission.

This follows a strong Indiana showing from last year as Indiana champion Barrett Hodorek, representing Lakeview Middle School in Warsaw, was the national runner-up.

The event is also supported by technology sponsor Bill of Rights Institute and supporting sponsors Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Eli Lilly and Co. and Kroger, Gardis & Regas, LLP & Indiana Bar Foundation.

For more information on the competition or to register to attend, visit www.indianachamber.com/2026civicsbee.