06/02/2026
Pitt County Awards America 250 NC Essay Contest Winners
Eight students recognized at County Commissioners’ meeting
PITT COUNTY, N.C. – The Pitt County Board of Commissioners recognized the winners of the America 250 NC Essay Contest at its Monday, June 1, 2026, meeting. The contest is a community initiative recognizing student voices and reflections on the ideals that shaped the United States and continue to influence North Carolina today.
Hosted by the Pitt County Human Relations Commission (HRC), the essay contest was created in support of America 250 NC, North Carolina’s official commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The statewide initiative encourages residents to reflect on the founding principles of liberty, equality and the pursuit of happiness.
Pitt County students were invited to submit essays exploring the meaning and impact of these ideals in their communities, lives and future aspirations. Entries were reviewed based on originality, creativity, historical understanding and clarity of thought.
HRC received 76 entries for the “How Has North Carolina Shaped Your Life?” essay prompt and awarded eight winners.
First Place $250
Jack Berry (4th-5th Grade) Eastern Elementary
Tatiana Ayako (6th-8th Grade) Hope Middle School
A’maiya Brooks (9th-12th Grade) North Pitt High School
Second Place $150
Reese Houston (4th-5th Grade) Eastern Elementary
Evan Kitto (6th-8th Grade) Hope Middle School
Hannah Alligood (9th-12th Grade) D. H. Conley High School
Third Place $100
Mia Moore (4th-5th Grade) Creekside Elementary
Khanh Blackmon (6th-8th Grade) Hope Middle School
Photo courtesy of the Public Information Office. Winners are pictured with HRC Coordinator Kimberly Moody, Manager Janis Gallagher and Chairman Mark Smith. View/Download:
https://pittcountync.lingoapp.com/a/BOCC-06012026-3001X8?asset_token=so4WS1oCkQJfLHZT0G4PH0XmtR4YrGQLmco0NR46DAE&v=0
“We are proud of the students who participated in this contest and shared thoughtful perspectives on America’s founding ideals,” says Janis Gallagher, Pitt County Manager. “Their essays demonstrate a strong understanding of history and a hopeful vision for the future of our communities and nation.”
America 250 NC is more than a historical milestone; it is an opportunity to explore how the nation’s founding ideas have been lived out, challenged and reimagined across generations. Learn more: https://www.america250.nc.gov/.
Pitt County’s Mission is to enhance the community’s well-being with care, respect and efficiency. Learn more: www.PittCountyNC.gov.
# # #
Media Contact: Dawn C. Jones, Director, Public Information & Media Relations | [email protected] | (252) 902-2993