Caitlin Beer, second place. Reflections of Calm. Photo provided by Whitko Community Schools.

News Release

SOUTH WHITLEY — Whitko High School art students competed in Kosciusko County Lakes and Streams 16th Annual Student Art Contest and were awarded five of the top six awards available in their categories.

This year’s award recipients were: in the senior and junior categories, juniors Emma Morse, Caitlin Beer and Alena Hindbaugh, who placed first, second and third, respectively. In the sophomore and freshman category, sophomores Autumn Deneve and Vera Mabon were awarded first and second place.

The five Whitko artists with winning entries receive cash prizes, an exhibit opportunity in The Alley, Warsaw, and will be featured on a greeting card design.

Whitko High School art teacher, Daniel Malicki, said “having success is hard to do, but consistently doing it is even harder,” adding he is proud of all his students’ pursuit for excellence year after year in this contest.

Emma Morse, first place. Curiosity in Reflection

Artwork was evaluated by Grace College Art Department judges, who were looking for creativity, artistic merit, compatibility of any wildlife with its habitat, and depiction of theme.

Each year, the Lilly Center Art Contest receives work from students in grades four through 12 who attend Kosciusko County schools. Local waterways are featured to raise awareness and appreciation for Kosciusko County lakes, ponds, rivers and streams through artistic expression. This year’s theme is “Wonders of the Water.”

The 2024-25 art competition season brought more than 30 awards, recognitions and honors for Whitko High School art students.

International: Five awards: one bronze medal and four medals of excellence for the 10 pieces sent.

National: Three judged entries.

Regional: 15 student awards and recognitions: three Gold Keys, four Silver Keys, six honorable mentions and two museum purchases; the Outstanding Educator Award

State: Three awards: two first places and one honorable mention of the eight awards available.

County: Five awards: Two first places, two second places and one third place.