St. Margaret’s School student Jasmine Kayla Kelly is the winner of this year’s Congressional Essay Contest.
The Rappahannock Committee of the National Society of the Colonial Dames in the Commonwealth of Virginia is proud to announce and congratulate Jasmine Kayla Kelly of Tappahannock, Virginia, on her outstanding achievement as a winner in the prestigious Congressional Essay Contest.
Held annually for over 40 years by the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in partnership with the Workshops Foundation, the contest invites students from across the United States to submit essays on timely civic and constitutional topics. This year’s prompt asked:
“Are or are not the current defamation and libel laws sufficient to prohibit baseless AI-generated and distributed content?”
A talented student at St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, Jasmine quickly stood out as a strong contender and was ultimately declared a Contest Winner. Virginia Crowther Ritter, Chairman of the Rappahannock Committee, and Leigh Weedon, Patriotic Service Chairman for the Virginia Society, both recognized her potential from the outset and were thrilled when her excellence was officially affirmed by the contest judges.
Along with the other three Commonwealth-wide winners, Jasmine will represent Virginia at the NSCDA Congressional Seminar in Washington, D.C., this June. During this Model Congress, participants from various backgrounds work together to forge constructive public policy for addressing critical national issues. NSCDA conducts the seminar to engender awareness to the nation’s founding principles among our nation’s future civic leaders.
Jasmine’s experience will include a generous scholarship covering room and board at American University, curated museum visits, tours of important and historic sites, and participation in a Model Congress alongside her peers from across the nation.
She will also have the opportunity to meet with Congressman Rob Wittman and Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, attend congressional sessions, and engage in policy debates—experiences that will offer invaluable insight into the workings of government and civic leadership.
The contest and its associated seminar aim to inspire students to deepen their understanding of American origins, history, and civic responsibility. Jasmine’s achievement is a testament to her dedication to these ideals.
At St. Margaret’s School, Jasmine serves as President of the Sophomore Class and the Volunteer Club, showcasing her leadership and commitment to service. As an Admissions Ambassador, she helps welcome prospective students, and as a Dorm Leader, she mentors her peers and contributes to a positive school community.
A proud and long-standing Girl Scout, Jasmine has been a member for nine years. She has earned her Bronze Award and is currently working toward the Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouting.
During the summer, Jasmine works with the Essex County Parks and Recreation Department at their youth summer camp, gaining experience in leadership, organization, and community involvement.
An emerging entrepreneur, Jasmine runs her own crafting business, J & J Crafts.
She is also an accomplished actress, having starred in several school productions, including a leading role in Matilda, performed by the Westmoreland Players.
Jasmine’s wide range of interests and commitments speak to her remarkable character and promise.
She aspires to become a civil rights attorney and policymaker, with a mission to uplift communities by advancing justice, equity, and representation. Her achievements, drive, and vision exemplify the values of civic engagement and service.
Jasmine says that her upcoming trip to Washington promises to be a transformational experience—one that will inspire her further as she prepares to “make a difference.”
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