Congresswoman Scanlon officially announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition on Saturday, May 2, 2026, following a reception held in Chester, PA. Among the talented participants, Erin Griffis of Sun Valley High School achieved the prestigious Best in Show award for her photograph titled “Tears of the Flag.”
The annual competition, which showcases artistic talent from high school students, recognized outstanding entries across several categories. Erin Griffis's striking photograph, “Tears of the Flag,” was singled out for the top honor, making her a standout artist in this year's event.
Beyond the Best in Show, Congresswoman Scanlon also presented awards to winners in individual artistic disciplines. Paris Wing was recognized as the winner in the Painting category, while Melanie Zhu secured the top spot in Drawing. Erin Griffis received a second distinction, winning the Photography category for her work. The Mixed Media award was presented to Zakiyah Sanyeneh, highlighting creativity in diverse artistic forms.
A special recognition, the Staff Selection prize, was awarded to Melissa Okine. This prize reflects the personal choice of Congresswoman Scanlon's staff, acknowledging another exceptional piece from the competition entries.
The reception in Chester, PA, served as the platform for celebrating the artistic achievements of these young creators. The announcement solidifies the recognition of these students' talents on a congressional level, providing a significant platform for their burgeoning artistic careers.