The Business Council of New York State to Host Second Annual National Civics Bee New York State Finals
Students from Staten Island, Rochester & Central New York to Compete for Trip to National Finals
ALBANY – The Business Council of New York State is proud to announce the second annual National Civics Bee New York State Competition, an exciting event designed to foster civic engagement among students across the state.
This innovative competition, modeled on traditional spelling and geography bees, aims to empower young minds to actively participate in shaping their communities while providing a platform to showcase their ideas and enthusiasm for civics.
On May 30, at the Capital Center in Albany, the National Civics Bee New York State Competition will bring together three students from each of the state's three participating regions who have completed local competitions and earned the right to advance to Albany for the state finals. The competitors will represent:
• Staten Island (Staten Island Chamber of Commerce)
• Rochester (Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce)
• Central New York (Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce)
Finalists are vying for recognition, cash prizes, and a trip to Washington, D.C., to represent New York State in the national competition.
"We are thrilled to host the second annual National CIVICS Bee in New York State," said Heather Mulligan, President and CEO of The Business Council of New York State. "As a business organization, we believe it's important to inspire the next generation of leaders to actively participate in civic life and, from an early age, contribute positively to their communities. We hope this event will encourage eager students to become informed, engaged citizens who are passionate about making a difference."
Robert Duffy, President & CEO of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, said:
"Greater Rochester Chamber is proud to work with the Business Council of New York State to bring this program to our state. The National Civics Bee competition gives students a voice on topics that they are passionate about. These students are our future, and developing a strong sense of civic engagement at a young age is critical to our region and our state's success in the years to come. Good luck to our Greater Rochester students competing this week!"
Linda Baran, President & CEO of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, said:
"We are thrilled to once again be participating in the National Civics Bee," said Linda Baran, President and CEO of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. "It is crucial for the next generation to be involved in civics because it empowers them to understand and engage with the community around them. By fostering a sense of civic responsibility, we are helping to build a stronger, more informed society, both in Staten Island and across the country."
Kari Puleo, Executive Director, Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to be participating in our inaugural year of the National Civics Bee. This competition is an incredible opportunity to celebrate civic knowledge and engagement among our region’s young leaders. We’re so proud of the students representing our community, and we can’t wait to cheer them on as they showcase their passion, ideas, and understanding of what it means to be active, informed citizens.”
Event Judges
• Ken Collins, Kinder Morgan, Inc.
• Marggie Skinner, League of Women Voters, Albany County
• Peter Wohl, Broadview Federal Credit Union
• Emcee/Host: Greg Floyd, Anchor, WRGB – CBS6 Albany
Guest Speaker
Honorable Mary Beth Walsh, Assembly District 112, New York State Assembly