This past year we had nearly 50 local students participate from eight high schools across Beaufort County. We cover all local and national competition costs. Without funds from our generous partners like the Heritage Classic Foundation we would not be able to send a team to nationals each year. Our consistent participation in this program also helps our overall status in the WACA consortium and puts us on the map to be considered for the prestigious distinction as a WACA Council of the Year. So for that, we are so grateful to you all.

This year 2024, the winning team was from Bluffton High School. It was the first year we had an all-female winning team, and they were one of two all-female teams at the National Competition. As one of the youngest female Executive Directors currently affiliated with WACA’s ninety councils, this was a heartwarming and exciting win. I was proud to support them and chaperone the team to Nationals.

Sending a team to Nationals is a life-changing learning opportunity for these students as they prepare for life after high school. Not only did the team get to travel to our Nation’s capital and meet other high-achieving students from around the U.S., but they also had other opportunities set up by the World Affairs Council of Hilton Head. This year the students had a private Capitol tour with Nancy Mace’s staff (while she was in session voting on funding for Ukraine!), visited the Air and Space Museum, saw the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives, enjoyed authentic Korean hotpot (one of the categories at the competition was South Korea), and learned from veterans at the Korean and Vietnam war memorials. Our Executive Director had the opportunity to chaperone the team and it was quite the life-changing experience for her as well, as she builds her career in the nonprofit sector of our community. We are very proud of this program and worked with the BCSD Social Studies coordinator this year to ensure it remains a staple in the local high schools.