Nonnewaug High Senior Places 2nd in Congressional Art Competition

Nonnewaug High School (NHS) student Jazmyn Franco took first runner-up in the 5^th District Congressional Art Competition for her entry, “Lobster,” which will hang in Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty’s Washington, DC office.

Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty announced the winners of the competition during a reception at the Mattatuck Museum, Art and History Center in Waterbury on Sunday.

Tori Bonagura, a Bethel High School senior, received first place for her entry, “Twiggy,” and Rachel Rae Rosa, a junior at Oliver Wolcott Technical School in Torrington, won second runner-up for her entry, “For Those About to Rock.” For one year, Bonagura’s piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building alongside the work of winners from across the country, and Rosa’s piece will be displayed in Congresswoman Esty’s New Britain office.

“Congratulations to Tori, Jazmyn, and Rachel for winning first place and first and second runner-up in this year’s Congressional Art Competition,” Esty said. “Their achievement is a reminder of the exceptional talent and creativity of young people from across the 5th District, and they are a testament to the importance of the arts in education. I’m proud of every student who submitted their artwork in this year’s contest.”

A total of 98 students from across the 5th District entered the competition. The winners were chosen by a panel of local judges.

The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition.

This report was based off of a press release from Congresswoman Esty’s office.