Virginia’s Civics Champion Heads to D.C. | Roanoke News

Will Finney, a standout middle schooler from North Cross School, just won the Virginia State Finals of the National Civics Bee and is headed to Washington D.C. in October to compete for the national title. His journey began at the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s local round, then surged through state finals where 26 top students debated real community solutions — not just trivia. Finney edged out fierce competitors including second-place Tucker Richmond and third-place Perize Rahi, all judged by education and policy heavyweights — even with a Thomas Jefferson impersonator hosting. Backed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and celebrated by Roanoke’s chamber, this victory highlights how civics education sparks real leadership. Watch Will rise as Virginia’s shining example — proof that young minds are ready to lead the nation. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7feba84040a460a2