04/13/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/13/2026 14:36
WASHINGTON-U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Florida's Fourth Congressional District during a celebratory reception held at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. A total of 17 students from across the district submitted 19 artistic pieces pertaining to the theme "Sunshine, Strength and Service."
The winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition are listed below:
GRAND PRIZE WINNER: Hailey Nalepa, It Doesn't Happen Alone, Clay High School
CLAY COUNTY
Winner: Maya Vasquez, 6th Period, Orange Park High School
Runner-Up: Lily Porrazza, Firehouse Companions, Orange Park High School
DUVAL COUNTY
Winner: Jennet Koroglu, The Garden of Growth, Stanton College Preparatory School
Runner-up: Jackson Sanders, Bravery, William Raines High School
NASSAU COUNTY
Winner: Breanna Rodriguez-Rollins, Daddy's Girl, Fernandina Beach High School
Runner-Up: Shelby Rothenberg, Patience, Fernandina Beach High School
BACKGROUND
This year's theme honors the workers, neighbors, and everyday heroes who shape American life. It highlights the contributions of hardworking Floridians, including teachers, postal workers, nurses, veterans, and many others whose daily efforts often go unseen but are essential to strengthening our communities.
Each spring, the House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute sponsor a nationwide competition as an opportunity for high school students to showcase their talents. Students from Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties submitted their artwork for the competition, and local artistic professionals judged the pieces.
The winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the Cannon Tunnel at the U.S. Capitol Building.
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