GOSHEN, Ky. (WDRB) — It was a special day on Tuesday for three lucky students at North Oldham Middle School who were surprised with exciting news: they had won the prestigious Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History Performance Contest.
Harper Ford, Emily Schardein and Rosalie Yantis were announced as winners, earning an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City this May. The trio will attend a performance of the hit musical Hamilton and explore the iconic sights of Manhattan.
The Gilder Lehrman Institute’s Hamilton Education Program invites students to create and perform original works, such as songs, raps, poems, or music compositions, that reflect historical events or topics. Ford, Schardein, and Yantis impressed the judges with their creativity and historical insight, landing them one of the 10 coveted national awards.
"It's incredible to think that something I created could have such an impact," said Schardein, reflecting on the achievement. "Even if you don't believe in what you've created, to everyone else, it's an amazing accomplishment. You just have to learn to see it that way and be proud of what you’ve done."
This marks the second consecutive year that the three students have won the competition, showcasing their continued passion for history and performance.
The Hamilton Education Program, which combines history with creativity, encourages young people to explore and express the past in innovative ways.
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