06/19/2026
North Dakota students’ projects were recognized at the National History Day competition held June 14-18 at the University of Maryland in College Park.
Olivia Grote and Mariam Keita from Legacy High School in Bismarck received one of two “U.S. Women’s History” awards for their senior group documentary, “The Women Behind the Black Panther Party.” The award recognizes outstanding National History Day projects in any division and category that highlight the contributions, achievements, and unique perspectives of women in the U.S.
North Dakota’s junior outstanding affiliate entry was awarded to Emilia Grimm and Nora Nelson of Horizon Middle School in Bismarck for their junior group exhibit, “Women Entering the U.S. Judiciary.” North Dakota’s senior outstanding affiliate entry was awarded to Aayusha Aryal of Fargo Davies High School for her senior individual exhibit, “The Anti-Rana Movement: Nepal’s Struggle for Democracy.” Outstanding affiliate entry distinctions are given to one junior and senior project from each state.
A group of students from Fargo North High School were among the National History Day contestants whose projects were featured in a June 17 showcase at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. “Miracle on Ice” by Isla Melby, Jenna Kurtz, and Amelia Sandell of Fargo North High School was among the 46 projects nationwide displayed.
Twenty-five students represented the state at the annual contest. While on the East Coast, North Dakota students presented their work on the theme “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History” and had opportunities to meet the 2,951 other competitors. They also visited the U.S. Capitol and met with U.S. Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer.
