Massachusetts Winner: Leading with Care is a Civic Act

When Phoebe first heard about the National Civics Bee®, she wasn’t sure she wanted to participate. Although she hesitated at first, her curiosity about politics and her desire to better understand how government works ultimately led her to say yes. 

“I thought I could learn more about the Constitution and our laws, allowing me to understand our lawmakers more,” she explains. “I also thought I could learn about different views and perspectives.” 

Driven by determination and a thirst for knowledge, Phoebe committed herself to preparing—reviewing the official study materials, making flashcards, and completing countless online quizzes. Still, she didn’t expect to win. “I was very anxious and not confident at all,” she admits. “Once they called my name, I was freaking out.” 

Phoebe’s winning essay tackled an issue close to her heart: loneliness and depression among elderly residents in nursing homes. Her inspiration came from a visit with her school’s service club, during which she met an elderly man sitting alone. “We got to know him really well,” she recalls. “And once we had to leave, he started crying. It was really sad, but we didn’t know if we’d see him again.” 

That encounter left a lasting impression and sparked a powerful idea: a nonprofit organization that connects schools, churches, and local organizations with nursing homes to build meaningful connections with elderly residents. Phoebe’s vision centers on enduring companionship, intergenerational connection, and a community grounded in empathy. 

Phoebe’s proposal not only addresses a pressing civic concern but also demonstrates leadership, compassion, and a deep understanding of how to strengthen society from the ground up. Her project embodies the core principles of civic engagement: listening to others, responding to unmet needs, and taking initiative to improve the well-being of all. 

Reflecting on her experience, Phoebe says the National Civics Bee deepened her understanding of the values that shaped America’s founding—and their relevance today. “It showed me that our Founding Fathers intended us to be in a community and help each other through these principles and virtues,” she explains. Her passion for civic engagement reflects a powerful truth: leading with care is a civic act.

Looking ahead, Phoebe hopes to bring her nonprofit to life and continue engaging in civic conversations with her peers. Through her organization, she aims to promote civic values like responsibility, respect, and dignity.  

“It’s really important for young people to know about [civics],” Phoebe says. “Because we’re going to be the next generation of America.” 

Photos credited to the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the U.S. Senate.