New Jersey's Top Young Civic Leaders Showcase Bold Ideas at 2026 National Civics Bee

Hosted by Rutgers Democracy Lab (RDL) in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the New Jersey state finals celebrated students whose passion for civic learning extends far beyond the classroom. 

From the opening moments of the competition, one message reverberated throughout the room: young people need not wait to be leaders in the future; they are ready to be the civic leaders of today. With over 70 students, family members, educators, civic leaders, and elected officials in attendance, the event underscored how young people are learning about civic issues and bringing fresh ideas to community problem-solving. 

The Future of Democracy Takes Center Stage

Welcoming attendees, Rutgers Democracy Lab Chief Operating Officer Ava Majlesi reminded finalists of the significance of a civics-centered event at a time when many are feeling disillusioned with democracy.

“What inspires me most is that you’re here because you care. You care about your communities. You care about solving problems. And you care enough to think about how things can be improved. That matters,” said Majlesi. “Because democracy isn’t something that exists only in textbooks or government buildings. It depends on people who are willing to learn, ask questions, listen to different perspectives, and work together to make a difference.”

Rutgers Board of Governors Chair Amy Towers echoed that message, encouraging students to embrace their roles as everyday leaders in civic life.

“You are not citizens in training. You are citizens right now,” Towers said. “The choices you make, the questions you ask, the way you treat people around you—that is democracy in action. Every single day.”

Adding to the day’s excitement, New Jersey Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Dr. Dale G. Caldwell addressed attendees. He highlighted the importance of civic participation and encouraged students to continue asking bold questions and using their civic knowledge to help strengthen their communities.

“In every era, young people with big ideas and new perspectives have helped push America forward,” said Lt. Governor Caldwell. “And the reason for that is because you don’t let the past slow you down. You come up with new ideas and new ways to think about civic engagement.”

From Civic Knowledge to Civic Engagement

The first half of the competition tested finalists with a rapid-fire series of highly challenging multiple-choice questions. Students were asked to draw on their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, civic institutions, landmark moments in American history, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. The questions required contestants to not only recall facts, but to think critically and demonstrate a deeper understanding of American democracy. 

The competition then shifted from asking the young participants to demonstrate civic knowledge to inviting them to share their ideas for civic action. Three finalists–Grace, Hridyanshu, and Etaash–presented original proposals addressing issues affecting their own communities. Their presentations outlined practical solutions involving collaboration between local leaders, organizations, and residents. 

Grace proposed a collaborative solution to improve safety and living conditions for Hoboken Housing Authority residents by partnering with community organizations, local officials, and funding programs to implement immediate improvements while long-term redevelopment progresses, demonstrating an equity-focused and action-oriented approach to addressing housing challenges.

Hridyanshu examined the proposed Bridge 8 Industrial Park in West Windsor–a large warehouse development–exploring concerns about increased truck traffic, environmental impacts, and the importance of balancing economic development with community well-being.  

Etaash focused on social isolation among older adults, proposing ways to help seniors build digital literacy and stay connected as more essential services move online. By making technology more accessible, the proposal also encourages human connection, helping maintain relationships with family, friends, and their communities. 

For Rutgers Democracy Lab inaugural Director and competition judge Nicholas Longo, the students’ presentations proved the important role that young people play in democracy.

“This entire competition demonstrated the importance of civic education and the amazing things young people can do when you give them civic opportunities,” Longo said. “They were inspiring, and the real winner was our democracy’s future. Rutgers Democracy Lab was honored to host, and I was so humbled by the chance to learn from these young leaders.” 

Igniting the Next Generation of Civic Leaders

Although three students earned top honors, every finalist demonstrated the knowledge and skills that define democratic citizenship. Looking forward, Majlesi encouraged the finalists to continue building upon the momentum they created throughout the competition. 

“Today is about more than a competition. It’s a celebration of your ideas, your effort, and your commitment to civic engagement,” Majlesi said. “Whether you leave here with a trophy or not, you’ve already accomplished something important: you’ve chosen to participate. And that’s what gives us hope for the future of American democracy.”

An earlier version of this article mistakenly stated Grace's presentation topic as flooding. The current, updated version correctly identifies her topic as the Hoboken Housing Authority.