March 17, 2025
LAWRENCEBURG, TENN – The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2025 National Civics Bee® – Lawrence County Finals on Friday, March 14, at the Southern Tennessee Higher Education Center. Twenty middle school students were selected as finalists from a pool of more than 220 essay submissions, each addressing a community issue and proposing a thoughtful solution. These finalists competed in a live quiz event to test their civics knowledge and presented their essay topics to a panel of judges.
The National Civics Bee® is a nationwide initiative designed to inspire young Americans to engage in civics and play an active role in their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and local Chambers of Commerce, the competition encourages middle schoolers to deepen their understanding of American democracy, engage in meaningful discussions, and develop a stronger sense of civic responsibility.
For the second year in a row, Jasper Clark from Summertown Middle School was named the winner of the National Civics Bee® – Local Competition. Kenlee McDonald from E.O. Coffman placed second, and Leevi Hicks from South Lawrence placed third. The top three finalists will advance to compete in the National Civics Bee® – Tennessee State Finals in June.
“The Lawrence County Chamber is proud to play a role in encouraging young people to engage in civic discussions and take an active role in shaping the future of our communities,” said Chamber President & CEO Ryan Egly. “Congratulations to our participants, finalists, and our three local winners that will compete in Nashville!”
Local businesses and elected officials partnered in this year’s effort. Citizens Bank of Lawrence County presented this year’s event, Cloud 9 Fiber sponsored the technology required for the competition, and Envision Eyecare and Eyewear provided refreshments. Ben Luna of Tennessee Valley Weather volunteered as the event’s emcee and Lawrence County Executive David Morgan, Teresa Frazier of Citizens Bank, and School Board Member Bill Adams, owner of First Class Charter, served as the live-event judges.
About the Chamber
The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce is a network of businesses, industries, local governments, utilities, and private citizens committed to enhancing the quality of life in Lawrence County, Tennessee. Through efforts in economic development, community engagement, tourism marketing, and workforce development, the Chamber works to foster growth and opportunity for the region.
