Auburn High School students have been recognized in the 2026 Midwest Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, one of the nation’s most prestigious programs celebrating creative excellence. Entries are judged by panels of professional artists and educators for originality, technical skill, and authentic voice.
Competing in the eight-state Midwest Region through the University of Iowa’s Belin-Blank Center, Auburn artists earned Gold Keys (top 5–7%), Silver Keys (top 7–10%), and Honorable Mentions (top 10–15%).
Gold Key Awards – the highest regional honor, advancing to national judging in New York City:
Kavya Patel (9), Motorcycle in Ink – Drawing
Ruth Sibounheuang-Thammavongsa (12), Flying Bee – Drawing
Vivian Hulsey (9), Motorcycle in Charcoal – Drawing
Yaretzy Escandon-Zaragoza (9), Motorcycle in Ink – Drawing
Honorable Mention Portfolio Award:
Amya Holland (12), Self Confidence
Silver Key Awards:
Addie Larson (12), Addie Plath (10), Amya Holland (12), Brayden Velez (10), Collin Lester (12), Griffin Winstead (12), Ruth Sibounheuang-Thammavongsa (12), and Zephyr Farris (12) earned recognition across drawing, painting, sculpture, and fibers.
Honorable Mentions:
Abigail Mandujano (12), Addie Larson (12), Amya Holland (12), Collin Lester (12), Elizabeth Lobato (11), and Ruth Sibounheuang-Thammavongsa (12).
Students will be honored at a regional celebration hosted by the University of Iowa. National award announcements will follow this spring.
