The Maryland Judiciary's Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) recently announced the winners of its 16th annual bookmark art contest. The event recognized 10 student winners and 14 honorable mentions from various schools across Maryland. Participants were tasked with designing bookmarks that highlighted themes of peaceful conflict resolution.
Chief Judge Joseph M. Getty, from the Court of Appeals of Maryland, attended the awards ceremony to honor the students and their families. "I am honored to meet with students and their families to congratulate them on their creativity and thoughtfulness in creating award-winning artwork featuring ways to peacefully resolve conflicts," he stated. He further emphasized the importance of teaching young people about peace-making and conflict resolution during challenging times.
A total of 2,215 entries were submitted by students from 45 schools in Maryland. Winning submissions came from counties including Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Frederick, Harford, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Queen Anne’s, and Washington.
During the event, Chief Judge Getty presented cash prizes totaling $750 to the top three winners in each grade category. He also discussed with students the messages conveyed through their artwork which focused on resolving or preventing conflicts through means such as apologizing, respecting differences, listening, tolerance, diversity, inclusion, building peace, and alternatives to violence.
The contest results are as follows:
Grades K-2:
- First Place: Rhys W. Goodloe from Kent Island Elementary School.
- Second Place (tie): Aliya Nicholls from Matapeake Elementary School; Syeda Anaya from Glenn Dale Elementary School.
- Third Place: Bryce Dye from Fountain Green Elementary School.
- Honorable Mentions included Sarah Baird and others.
Grades 3-5:
- First Place: Maxwell Ibe from Heather Hills Elementary School.
- Second Place: Anna Nelson from Severna Park Elementary School.
- Third Place: Brenden Nguyen from Bayside Elementary School.
- Honorable Mentions included Maximos Piquero and others.
Grades 6-8:
- First Place: Nana Mensah from Western Heights Middle School.
- Second Place: Brynn Marcella Fazio from New Market Middle School.
- Third Place: Maylie Houser also from New Market Middle School.
- Honorable Mentions included Laila Brianna-Marie Jones and others.
The contest not only showcased artistic talent but also underscored the value of promoting peaceful solutions among young individuals.