The Hopkinsville–Christian County Human Rights Commission recognized young artists from across the community during its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Art Contest, with winners announced at the Martin Luther King Jr. Day program held Monday morning at Hopkinsville Community College.
This year’s contest drew approximately 300 entries, demonstrating strong participation from young people throughout the community and the continued relevance of Dr. King’s message among the next generation.
The contest invited students from Pre-K through 12th grade to express the life, legacy, and message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through visual art. Student submissions reflected themes of equality, justice, unity, and hope, core values championed by Dr. King.
Winners were selected in four grade divisions, with honorable mentions also recognized.
Pre-K – 2nd Grade
- 1st Place: Alayna Travis, 2nd Grade, Indian Hills Elementary School
- 2nd Place: Tilly Maye Myers, Kindergarten, Sinking Fork Elementary School
- 3rd Place: Jade Burney, 1st Grade, Sinking Fork Elementary School
3rd Grade – 5th Grade
- 1st Place: Avery Reynolds, 5th Grade, Heritage Christian Academy
- 2nd Place: DaMari Carter, 4th Grade, Freedom Elementary School
- 3rd Place (Tie):
- Mylah Castro, 4th Grade, Freedom Elementary School
- Rosalie Dodson, 4th Grade, Sinking Fork Elementary School
6th Grade – 8th Grade
- 1st Place: Hadley Mathis, 6th Grade, University Heights Academy
- 2nd Place: Kora Stiles, 6th Grade, University Heights Academy
- 3rd Place: Harper Kidd, 8th Grade, Christian County Middle School
9th Grade – 12th Grade
- 1st Place: Sophia Wilson, 12th Grade, Christian County High School
- 2nd Place: Carly Armstrong, 11th Grade, Christian County High School
- 3rd Place (Tie):
- Vincent Ellerbee, 12th Grade, Hopkinsville High School
- Kalaiah Nance, 10th Grade, Christian County High School
Honorable Mentions
- AJ Smith, 9th Grade, Hopkinsville High School
- Jonathan Gamboa, 10th Grade, Christian County High School
The Human Rights Commission congratulates all participating students for their creativity and thoughtful interpretations, and thanks local schools, teachers, and families for supporting the event. With nearly 300 student submissions, the annual art contest continues to serve as a meaningful platform for youth voices and a powerful reminder of the community’s commitment to fostering awareness, inclusion, and civic engagement among its youngest members.
