POTTSVILLE, PA – The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the outstanding achievements of three local students who competed in the 2025 Pennsylvania State Finals of the National Civics Bee®, held Friday, June 13 at Penn State University’s HUB-Robeson Center. Hosted by the Pennsylvania Chamber Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Chamber Foundation and eight regional chambers of commerce statewide, the event showcased the civic knowledge and leadership potential of 24 exceptional middle school students from across the Commonwealth.

Representing Schuylkill County at the state level were:

• Mihir Pilgaonkar – Saint Ignatius Loyola Regional School
• Aaron Kerlin – Tamaqua Area School District
• Mary Anderson – North Schuylkill School District

All three students earned their place at the state finals by excelling in Schuylkill County’s inaugural local Civics Bee competition hosted this past April by the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce. Each delivered impressive performances and proudly represented the region on the statewide stage.

A special congratulations goes to Mihir Pilgaonkar, who placed third overall in the state finals. Mihir demonstrated exceptional poise and knowledge, shining in the quiz rounds and delivering a compelling essay presentation in which he confidently defended his civic proposal during the judges’ Q&A. For his achievement, Mihir received a $500 prize.

“Watching these students take the stage and showcase their passion for civics and community was truly inspiring,” said Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Robert S. Carl Jr. “We are incredibly proud of Mihir, Aaron, and Mary for representing Schuylkill County with such heart and leadership. They are living proof that the future of our community is bright.”

The Pennsylvania State Finals were co-chaired by Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Luke Bernstein and Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis. The event featured two rounds of quiz-style questions, followed by a final round in which the top five students presented original civic improvement proposals. The competition was emceed by Leon Smith, the 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year.

Participating regional chambers included:

• Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County
• Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry
• Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership
• Greater Latrobe Laurel Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce
• Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce
• Harrisburg Regional Chamber and CREDC
• Lancaster Chamber of Commerce
• Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce

The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce is honored to partner in this impactful initiative that encourages middle school students to engage in civic life and develop innovative solutions for their communities. The Chamber extends sincere thanks to the families, educators, and schools that supported these students throughout their Civics Bee journey.

Looking ahead, the Schuylkill Chamber is already preparing for the 2026 National Civics Bee®. Middle school students in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade are encouraged to start sharpening their civics knowledge. Details on next year’s competition will be released in the fall.

To learn more about the National Civics Bee®, visit https://civics.uschamberfoundation.org/national-civics-bee/

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