Brownsville’s Top Young Civic Leaders Head To Civics Bee® Competition State Finals

(Brownsville, TX) May 29, 2026 – The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the success of the 2026 National Civics Bee® Live Competition in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and The Civic Trust, held in Brownsville, TX on May 23, 2026. The event brought together outstanding local middle school students to showcase their civic knowledge, critical thinking, and passion for community engagement.

This year’s top student winners included Olivia DeOrnellas of Saint Joseph Academy in first place, Anirudh Roy of Los Fresnos Consolidated School District’s Resaca Middle School in second place, and Nailea Flores of Rafael Cantu Junior High School in third place, each representing their schools and community with excellence.

These outstanding students will now advance to the National Civics Bee® Texas State Finals on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Austin, TX, for the opportunity to compete at The National Civics Bee Championship in Washington, D.C.

The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce congratulates all participating students for their hard work, preparation, and dedication to civic leadership and community involvement.

“These students are already exemplifying the leadership, civic engagement, and passion for public service that will shape the future of our communities. We are proud to champion and invest in the next generation of civic leaders as they develop the knowledge, confidence, and advocacy skills needed to drive meaningful change and strengthen our region for years to come,” said Brownsville Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Esmeralda Villarreal, IOM.

Esteemed judges for the competition included Agustín Alberdi Ángeles Rivera of the Protective Services Department at the Consulado de México en Brownsville, State Representative Erin Elizabeth Gàmez of the Texas House of Representatives, and President and CEO Paco Sanchez of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership. Their diverse experiences and perspectives inspired students to embrace leadership, service, and active participation in their communities.

Special recognition is extended to this year’s sponsors, including Sustaining Partner Satori Display and Supporting Partner the Consulado de Carrera de México en Brownsville. Appreciation is also extended to community partners who donated rewards and educational materials for participating students, helping create an enriching experience for all.

About the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce

An Accredited 4-Star Chamber of Commerce, the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce is a member driven business organization whose principal mission is to advance the business interests of its members through leadership, civic engagement, promotion, support and advocacy. Learn more by visiting www.brownsvillechamber.com.

# # #