The State Historical Society of North Dakota announces the finalists of its second annual "Teen Takeover" contest. The contest showcases the voices and ideas of North Dakota teenagers. The 2025 "Teen Takeover" finalists are as follows: Zoe E. Joy, LaMoure; Josephine Legge, Spiritwood; Jocelyn Ward, White Shield; Isabella Packineau-Williams, Parshall; Michelle David, Cando; and Lydia Brase, Rugby. Their creative submissions interpreting the North Dakota-related theme of “What North Dakota Means to Me” accompanied by short essays explaining their works are now on exhibit at the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum in Bismarck.  

The public is invited to an opening reception Saturday, Feb. 22, 2-3 p.m. Following a short program awarding the grand champion, the teens will be available to visit about their submissions in Lecture Room B of the ND Heritage Center & State Museum. 

The State Historical Society is currently accepting submissions for the 2026 “Teen Takeover” contest. North Dakota teens ages 13 to 18 are invited to submit an original work interpreting the theme "What will North Dakota look like 250 years in the future?” Contest entries are due by Dec. 5, 2025. Finalists’ work will be displayed in spring 2026 at the State Museum, and a grand champion will be awarded $150 provided by the State Historical Society of North Dakota Foundation.  Find contest details at statemuseum.nd.gov/teen-takeover.

For more information, contact Laura Forde, education and engagement manager, [email protected] or 701.328.2792. “Teen Takeover” will be on exhibit in the Merlan E. Paaverud Jr. Gallery. The ND Heritage Center & State Museum is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free. Find upcoming events at history.nd.gov/events.