National Civics Bee New York

The Business Council, through our Public Policy Institute, is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and four chambers of commerce across New York State to host a first-of-its-kind statewide civics competition.

The 2023-24 National Civics Bee encourages students to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. The competition, modeled on traditional spelling and geography bees, gives students the chance to 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 New York State Finals will be invited to Washington, DC to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee national championship in Fall 2024.

Event Emcee: Susan Arbetter, Anchor, Capital Tonight / Spectrum News
Guest Speakers: 

• Honorable Mary Beth Walsh, Assembly District 112, New York State Assembly
• Hilary Crow, Vice President, Civics, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

Judges:

• Allen Fore, Vice President of Public Affairs, Kinder Morgan, Inc.
• Dr. Carol Kim, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, University at Albany
• Bob Schneider, Executive Director, New York State School Boards Association

Optional Tour of the New York State Capitol - 3:00- 3:45 p.m.

Join the fun on a tour of the New York State Capitol. Visit one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the country. Highlights of the 45-minute tour can include the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and the recent Ruth Bader Ginsburg portrait carving. Tour access and route are subject to change.

This optional tour will take place at 3:00 p.m.  More information will be provided once you sign up for the tour on the registration page.

Click here to learn more about the sponsorship opportunities.

Create awareness of your company, broaden your visibility and reinforce your image. Contact Gabby Lichtenberg at [email protected] or call (518)694-4471 for more information.

A limited number of rooms are available at the Renaissance Albany Hotel at a discounted rate of $189 per night. Book your group rate online at the link here.

Cut-off date to book a room: Monday, May 6, 2024

Other Downtown lodging options can be found here.

These local chambers are hosting local competitions across New York State. 

• Delaware County Chamber of Commerce
• Greater Rochester Chamber
• Staten Island Chamber of Commerce
• Warwick Valley Chamber