The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, and this year saw over 340,000 entries. This is the third year that the AHA Fine Arts Department has participated in the art portion of the competition, and this is the first year AHA has submitted writing projects.

The following students received recognition in a variety of categories. They were all celebrated at the Catholic Schools Week pep fest on Friday, January 31. Congratulations, students!

Art Awards

• Portfolio Gold Key - Elizabeth Mejia-Quintanilla, senior: Andrea Bagdon, art teacher, shared, "Ellie earned the highest honor in the art competition for her portfolio, which includes six cohesive artworks. She is one of only 15 students in the state to receive this prestigious award! Her portfolio will now advance to the national level, where she’ll be considered for national medals, an exhibition at Carnegie Hall, and potentially a $12,500 scholarship."
   
• Silver Key (Drawing - Individual Work) - Gabriella Olson, freshman
   
• Honorable Mention (Mixed Media - Individual Work): Calli Holmes, senior

Writing Awards

Gabriella Olson - Gold Keys: In addition to art, Gabriella also excelled in the writing category, earning three Gold Keys for her original works. One of her pieces was named an American Voices Nominee, recognizing it as one of the top five individual works in the region. All three of her pieces will advance to the national competition. Ms. Bagdon added, "It’s worth noting that Gabriella submitted her works independently, which speaks volumes about her initiative and dedication—what an incredible achievement!"