Today, the Salt Lake Chamber hosted the 2025 National Civics Bee® Utah State Finals in Salt Lake City, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Jake B., Sophia C., and Zoey M. were named the top three finalists of the National Civics Bee Utah State Finals, organized in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
“Seeing these students take the stage at the National Civics Bee competition today reminds us that civic engagement isn’t something we grow into when we age; it’s something we can start practicing at any age,” said Derek Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber. “This competition gives Utah’s middle schoolers a chance to share their ideas, tackle real-world issues and see themselves as problem-solvers in their own communities. It’s inspiring to see such passion and purpose in the next generation of leaders.”
Ten finalists advanced from local competitions across Utah to take part in the state competition. The ten finalists competed in an in-person, live event featuring two rounds of civics questions, followed by a Q&A round to test their civics knowledge. Jake B. from Crimson Cliffs Middle School took first place, followed by Sophia C. from Mueller Park Junior High School and Zoey M. from Hurricane Middle School, who secured second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were Rep. Douglas Welton, Utah State Legislature; Natalie Bowen, Salt Lake Chamber; and Becki Wright, Proximity Campaigns.
The top three finalists impressed the judges with their civic knowledge, desire to make a real difference and thoughtful approach to challenges facing our communities.
Judge Becki Wright said, “These students represent our future business and community leaders. It’s inspiring to see them so engaged in civics at such a young age through the National Civics Bee competition. The rest of our country could learn from their example by gaining the knowledge and tools needed to make a difference in their own communities. We are proud of each participant and congratulate them on their achievements.”
The finalists and top winners received various prizes, including $1,000 cash for the first-place winner. The first-place winner of the Utah State Finals also earned a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Championship in the Fall of 2025. Prizes at the National Championship include a grand prize of a $100,000 529 plan for first place, $25,000 for second place and $15,000 for third place.
“We are facing a civics crisis in America. Surveys show that 70% of adults cannot pass a basic civics quiz and 79% of 8th graders fall below proficiency in civics. This threatens the strength, prosperity and resilience of our nation,” said Hilary Crow, vice president, civics for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “The National Civics Bee is dedicated to enhancing civics knowledge, skills and disposition among young people and adults alike, inspiring the next generation to make a positive impact in their communities.”
Sponsors of the National Civics Bee Utah State Finals included Comcast (Major Sponsor), Google Fiber (Tech Sponsor), Westminster University (Venue Sponsor) and General Distributing Company (Event Sponsor).
For more information on the National Civics Bee Utah State Finals, click here.
