Congressional Arts Competition 

The winners of the 2009 Congressional Arts Competition were announced May 3, during a ceremony at the Denies Cultural Center in Russell. The annual competition showcases the artistic abilities of Kansas high school students. This year, more than 100 entries were submitted from 11 schools throughout the First Congressional District.

Art plays a central role in fostering the creativity and enhancing the education of our students. I congratulate all the winners and the participants and thank Denies Cultural Center of Russell for hosting the event.

This year's competition was divided into seven categories: painting, drawing, collage, prints, mixed media, computer generated art and photography. Katie Wolters, of Osborne, received Best of Show for her drawing entitled, "Girl Undefined." Katie's artwork will be on display this year in the U.S. Capitol. Joel Auer, also of Osborne, received Runner-Up for his mixed media piece entitled, "Triangular Escapade," and Jacy Porter of Little River received Honorable Mention for his photograph, "Farmer's Helper."

First Place: Samantha Schmidt, Colby High School

Second Place: Danielle Dougherty, Little River High School

First Place: Sarah Emigh, Wheatland High School

Second Place: Dayna Shaw, Wheatland High School

First Place: Jordann Seirer, Lucas-Luray High School

Second Place: Emily Douglas, Sacred Heart High School

First Place: Taylor Thibault, Osborne High School

Second Place: Callie Ellwood, Little River High School

First Place: Joel Auer, Osborne High School

Second Place: Roxanne Nelson, Little River High School

First Place: Jennifer David, Hays High School

Second Place: Wendy Williams, Little River High School

First Place: Jennifer David, Hays High School

Second Place: Roxanne Nelson, Little River High School

Click here to view photos from the reception.

Interested students and teachers may contact my Hays district office for more information about the 2010 competition.

	2009 Winner "Girl Undefined" by Katie Wolters Osborne Senior High School Osborne, Kan.
	2008 Winner "Sunset" by Ciera Nelson Little River High School Little River, Kan.
	2007 Winner "Handpicked" by Hannah Beattie Little River High School Little River, Kan.
	2006 Winner "Earthmovers" by Jordan Zerr Wheatland High School Grainfield, Kan.