Eleanor C. ’26 Named a Winner of Voices of Democracy Student Writing Competition

St. Anne’s-Belfield junior Eleanor “Nori” C. ’26 has been recognized as a winner in this year’s Voices of Democracy Student Writing Competition by The Equity Center at UVA and the Karsh Institute of Democracy. The competition celebrates the creativity and civic-mindedness of our youth while spotlighting the importance of education in shaping thoughtful, engaged citizens.

The Voices of Democracy Student Writing Contest invites students Grade 6 to 12 from Charlottesville City and Albemarle County to express their perspectives on democracy through poetry or prose. This year, 42 students submitted entries on the theme “What Democracy Means to Me.” A panel of expert judges selected six winners and several honorable mentions across three age categories.

Nori’s submission earned first place in the Grades 11 and 12 category and overall third place. Her insightful prose explored the evolving nature of democracy, emphasizing equality, representation, and the vital contributions of diverse voices. Drawing from her personal experiences and family’s immigrant background, she addressed the ongoing challenges and possibilities of building a more inclusive and representative society.

On Dec. 19, 2024, representatives from The Karsh Center and The Equity Center presented Nori a copy of her winning submission in the Grisham Hall lobby on the Greenway Rise Campus. A small crowd was on-hand to show their support, including her advisory, Head of the Upper School Beth Miller, and members of Nori’s family. You may learn more about the competition winners and read Nori’s full submission at stab.org/democracy.