HONOLULU, HI – The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, with support from presenting sponsor Honolulu Star-Advertiser, hosted the second annual National Civics Bee® Hawaii State Finals on Saturday, April 18, at Kaimuki High School’s auditorium. Twenty middle school students from across the state, who were selected as top essayists from more than 170 submissions, came together to test their civic knowledge during a multiple-choice competition. The top five advancing to deliver three-minute pitches based on their submitted essays, which focused on issues that matter most to them and their communities.

“The Chamber is committed to strengthening Hawaii’s future by investing in leadership and civic engagement across generations,” says Sherry Menor, President and CEO at the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. “The National Civics Bee® creates an important space for students to develop their voices, think critically about community challenges, and recognize the role they can play in shaping Hawaii’s future.”

Hailey S. of Moanalua Middle School was named the 2026 Hawaii State Champion, distinguishing herself with a strong overall performance and a compelling essay on the restoration of coral reefs, highlighting both environmental responsibility and the importance of protecting Hawaii’s natural resources. Hailey will go on to represent Hawaii at the National Civics Bee® national competition this fall in Washington, D.C., where she will compete for a $100,000 529 education savings plan.

“This competition showcased some of the brightest students in Hawaii and was a powerful reminder of the incredible young leaders we have across our state,” says Sophia Wibholm, Associate Director of Education at the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. “These students are eager, passionate, thoughtful, and hardworking, and it was inspiring to see them step up and engage in civic dialogue at such a high level. We are incredibly proud of Hailey and every finalist who showed up, gave their all, and represented their communities so well.”

A distinguished panel of judges lent their time and expertise to the program, including Professor Colin Moore of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, State Representative Adrian Tam, and Kelly Knox of Southwest Airlines, which sponsored flights for neighbor island competitors.