News Article

National Archives Foundation Announces Winners of Rightfully Yours Youth Art Competition

January 16, 2020

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the National Archives Foundation announces the winners of its “Rightfully Yours Youth Art Competition.” Launched in June 2019, the competition inspired students across the country in grades 4, 5 and 6 to express the meaning of the 19th Amendment and equal rights through an original piece of art. The Foundation created the competition as part of its education and outreach efforts associated with the newest National Archives exhibit, Rightfully Hers: American Women and the Vote. 

The Foundation is excited to announce that the Grand Prize winner of the contest is Valentina Roever, a 6th grader from Glenfield Middle School in New Jersey, for her piece entitled “Reflecting on Women’s Right to Vote.” 

As the Grand Prize winner, Valentina will receive a free trip, including travel, to the Spring 2020 Sleepover in the Rotunda of the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. Her winning artwork will also be used to create an exclusive product that will be sold in the National Archives Store.

“Because of their sacrifice, women can do more than just vote,” Valentina wrote in her artist’s statement. “They can be anything!” 

In addition to the grand prize winner, the Foundation announces one winner for each grade level, who will each receive history-related gift baskets from the National Archives Store. 

  • Grade 4: Alexia Sheppard, Allen Village School, Missouri
  • Grade 5: Sadie Thompson, Theodore Roosevelt School, New Jersey
  • Grade 6: Nishitha Putrevu, Webb Bridge Middle School, Georgia

The National Archives Foundation received 178 total submissions from 32 schools in 17 states and engaged a diverse group of judges including professional educators and local artists. 

“Art conveys powerful messages in ways that often surprise and challenge us,” said National Archives Foundation Executive Director Patrick Madden. “The entries in our Rightfully Yours Youth Art Competition did not disappoint. We hoped to inspire students to reflect on the 19th Amendment anniversary and equal rights, and every entry was unique and creative. We applaud all of the participants for bringing history forward into their world today and recognizing the power of civic participation.”  

To see the winning artwork and learn more about the artists and the competition, please visit: www.archivesfoundation.org/rightfully-yours/

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About the National Archives Foundation

The National Archives Foundation is an independent nonprofit that increases public awareness of the National Archives, inspires a deeper appreciation of our country’s heritage, and encourages citizen engagement in our democracy. The Foundation generates financial and creative support for National Archives exhibitions, public programs and educational initiatives, introducing America’s records to people around the U.S. and the world. Learn more at www.archivesfoundation.org.