MEDIA ALERT: 2026 National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals

[Amanda Remynse]

MEDIA ALERT

July 6, 2026 

2026 National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals: Middle School Civics Students to Compete

WHAT: The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) will host the 2026 National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals, bringing together middle school students to compete in a live civics competition (similar to a spelling bee) focused on civic knowledge, critical thinking, and community engagement. Students will participate in two rounds of civics questions followed by a live Q&A round where they will present solutions to challenges facing their communities. The first-place winner will advance to the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington, D.C.

This is the second time North Dakota will be represented on national competition.

WHEN: Friday, July 10, 2026
- Registration: 9:00 a.m.
- Welcome Begins: 9:30 a.m. with remarks from Secretary of State Michael Howe and GNDC President & CEO Arik Spencer
- Awards Presentation: Approximately 11:00 a.m.

WHERE: North Dakota State Capitol, Brynhild Haugland Room, Bismarck, ND

WHO:

• Student finalists from North Dakota
• Judges:
• Chad Calvert, Senior Director of State Government Affairs, Chevron
• Kayla Pulvermacher, Government Relations Manager, Midco
• Ryan Taylor, Director of Public Policy, Ducks Unlimited and former North Dakota Senator

WHY IT MATTERS: Over 70% of Americans fail basic civic literacy quizzes covering branches of government and democracy. The National Civics Bee®, an initiative of The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, encourages greater civic knowledge and engagement among middle school students. The program helps develop future leaders by challenging students to think critically about issues impacting their communities and identify solutions.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE & EVENT DETAILS
Event link: Registration & Schedule
Program Link: Program History and Overview
Press release: GNDC announces Judges

MEDIA RSVP & CONTACT:
Credentialed media are welcome, please RSVP and check-in onsite.
GNDC Event and Media Policies

To RSVP or schedule interviews, contact:
Amanda Remynse
VP, Strategic Engagement
Greater North Dakota Chamber
ama...@ndchamber.com (best option) | (701) 222-0929

 

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About GNDC: The Greater North Dakota Chamber is the largest statewide business advocacy organization, with membership represented by small and large businesses, local chambers, and trade and industry associations. GNDC represents the interests of our members by promoting policies and initiatives in pursuit of making North Dakota’s business climate the best in the nation. ndchamber.com