GNDC Announces Judges for the 2026 National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals

BISMARCK, ND – The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) is proud to announce the distinguished panel of judges for the 2026 National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals, taking place Friday, July 10, at the North Dakota State Capitol’s Brynhild Haugland Room in Bismarck.
 
This statewide event is part of a national effort to encourage civics education and empower the next generation of informed, engaged citizens. The Bee brings together middle school students from across North Dakota to compete in a live, quiz-style competition focused on civics knowledge, problem-solving, and community engagement.
 
“As we host the National Civics Bee in North Dakota for the second year, we're excited to welcome another outstanding group of judges who understand the importance of civic engagement and public leadership,” said Arik Spencer, President and CEO of GNDC. “Last year’s state champion had the opportunity to represent North Dakota on the national stage in Washington, D.C., and we look forward to seeing this year’s students showcase the knowledge, ideas, and commitment that will help shape the future of our communities.”
 
Judges for this year’s competition include:

• CHAD CALVERT, Senior Director of State Government Affairs, Chevron
• KAYLA PULVERMACHER, Government Relations Manager, Midco
• RYAN TAYLOR, Director of Public Policy, Ducks Unlimited and former North Dakota Senator

Additionally, GNDC is pleased to welcome Chad Oban, Executive Director, North Dakota United to emcee the event.
 
The competition will include two rounds of civics questions and a Q&A segment that highlights students’ civic thought leadership and real-world solutions to community challenges.
 
Winners from this state finals will advance to the National Civics Bee Championship in Washington, D.C., competing for significant scholarship prizes, including a grand prize of a $100,000 529 college savings plan.
 
Media Coverage Invited: Credentialed media are invited to attend.
Event: National Civics Bee® North Dakota State Finals
Date/Time: July 10
Location: North Dakota State Capitol – Brynhild Haugland Room, Bismarck, ND
 
For more information, visit ndchamber.com/national-civics-bee-north-dakota-state-final.
  About the National Civics Bee®: The National Civics Bee®, a program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s The Civic Trust, is a nonpartisan competition aimed at improving civics literacy among middle schoolers. It is made possible through partnerships with state and local chambers across the country and supported by the Daniels Fund, Citizen Travelers, and other civic-minded organizations.
 
About GNDC: The Greater North Dakota Chamber is the largest statewide business advocacy organization, with membership represented by small and large businesses, local chambers, and trade and industry associations. GNDC represents the interests of our members by promoting policies and initiatives in pursuit of making North Dakota’s business climate the best in the nation. ndchamber.com