Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2020
K-12 Poster Contest Winners and Celebration!
We are proud to draw more than 70 applications from MCPS students. We are honoring awards to the 1st, the 2nd, the 3rd place winners and honorable mentions in the elementary, middle and high school categories:
Elementary Schools
1st Place: I. S., Spark M. Matsunaga ES
Public Figure: Nathan Adrian, United States Olympic swimmer (1988- )
Caption: He is a five time gold medalist swimmer who helped the United States win the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics.
Description: I chose Nathan Adrian because he is a great Asian-American swimmer. I am a swimmer and he is a role model to me. I identify with him because like him, I am also part Asian. I feel that I could become a better person and athlete by trying to be more like him. Nathan has had struggles he has had to overcome. In January 2019, he was diagnosed with cancer. He was able to get through it. This is a hard thing to do. Overall, I believe he is a great person in so many ways. You can learn so much from him and he is truly an Asian-American hero to me.
2nd Place: V. S., Bells Mill ES
Public Figure: Grace Lin, writer and illustrator (1974- )
Caption: Showed people the Asian-American experience in her book and advocates for diversity in books.
Description: I chose her because I like to read her books.
3rd Place: A. D., Farmland ES
Public Figure: Kalpana Chawla, American astronaut (1962-2003)
Caption: First Indian woman who was part of the 6-person astronaut crew that flew in space (STS-87).
Description: Kalpana Chawla was an Indian-American astronaut and engineer, and the first woman of Indian origin to go to space. She worked for NASA in missions STS-87 and STS-107. As an Indian, I am proud of this brave girl! She is regarded as a national hero in India. She died along with all 6 crew members in the Space Shuttle Colombia on the ill-fated STS-107 mission on February 1, 2003.
Honorable Mention: A. H. L., College Gardens ES
Public Figure: Vera Wang, fashion designer, (1949- )
Caption: She is recognized for designing wedding and bridesmaid dresses and is a leader in the fashion industry.
Description: I picked Vera Wang because my mom showed me dresses that she made for Barbie dolls. I love Barbie dolls. I thought the dresses were beautiful and learned that she also made dresses for not just dolls but for people too.
Middle Schools
1st Place: L. C., Tilden MS
Public Figure: Chloe Kim, snowboarder (2000- )
Caption: Chloe Kim is a young Olympic gold medal winner who is inspirational.
Description: I chose Chloe Kim for many reasons. One reason why is that she never gives up. One of her quotes describes that your dream can be tricky, but in the end you will succeed, which is inspiring to me. Chloe also explains that being young doesn’t mean that she didn’t work as hard as other snowboarders did to achieve goals.
2nd Place: C. F., North Bethesda MS
Public Figure: Patsy Mink, first Asian-American congresswoman and Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (1927-2002)
Caption: Since Patsy Mink was constantly rejected because of her race, she showed others to be persistent despite the challenges they face. She also showed racial equality counts among all people.
3rd Place: P. K., Kingsview MS
Public Figure: Yuri Kochiyama, human rights activist (1921-2014)
Caption: Advocated towards equal rights and used her voice to speak up for all minorities.
Description: I decided to draw Yuri Kochiyama as my public figure. Not many know her name, but she has had a huge influence on the life we live in today. She has dedicated most of her life to reaching equal rights. She has joined so many different kinds of movements, ranging from the Asian-American Movement to the Anti-War Movement. Who knows if America would have ended up being a “free country”. I thought someone so hardworking and kind deserved to be drawn and known. She inspires me to speak my mind and to always persevere.
Honorable Mention: E. W., Takoma Park MS
Public Figure: Amber Josephine Liu, singer, rapper, and songwriter (1992- )
Caption: Influential South Korean girl group member and soloist providing entertainment for young people.
Description: I chose to draw Amber Liu because I like Korean-pop music in general, and Amber is one of those artists that stands out to me. She is not afraid to be herself and have her own concepts, which she expresses through her music.
High Schools
1st Place: A. S., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Hayley Kioko, singer-songwriter (1991- )
Caption: Paved the way for diverse LGBT Asian-American representation through her inspiring songs.
Description: Hayley Kioko has been enormously influential to me, as the first openly lesbian Asian-American songwriter, and she was one of the primary reasons inspiring me to create my own art. Her message of acceptance, love, and the normalization of same-sex relationships helped me come to terms with my own identity and to come out as a lesbian. She showed me that you can be out and proud and book sold-out tours, have a successful career, and create art that tells your story.
2nd Place: J. C., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Jenny Han, author (1987- )
Caption: Deepened the breadth of understanding Asian cultures in her most recent books and diversified the literary world through writing about relatable teenage experiences and universal emotions.
Description: I chose this public figure because her most recent book series, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, were some of the few books that were centered around the perspective of a Korean- American. Being Korean-American myself, it was extremely fulfilling to see such a relatable character, and it was a character I could culturally identify with. Furthermore, her book was adapted into a film and the main character was portrayed by an Asian-American, diversifying the film industry. In addition, the main character was able to be portrayed by an Asian-American because Ms. Han insisted upon it; it was originally planned to be played by a white actress. For these reasons, I have grown to respect the author and enjoy the series with a sense of connectivity in the company of an authentic Asian-American character.
3rd Place: M. S., Winston Churchill HS
Public Figure: Ken Kang-Joh Jeong, stand-up comedian, actor, former physician (1969- )
Caption: Raised visibility of Asian-Americans in pop culture and media.
Description: I believe that he paved a new path for Asian-Americans by breaking the stereotypes and becoming a comedian/actor and not only a doctor or engineer. This shows young Asian-Americans to follow their dreams and not settle for becoming what their parents might expect them to become, but to push themselves and do what they want to do. I, for one, aspire to become an automotive designer and go to art school.
Honorable Mention: E. S., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Eric S. Yuan, founder of Zoom Video Communications (1970- )
Caption: Founded the online video platform that is used by people of all ages, backgrounds and professions during the COVID-19 crisis.
Description: I chose to draw Eric Yuan because of the significance Zoom had played in connecting people during this crisis. As a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic, more and more of us have found our routines and activities compromised. To maintain some level of human interaction and normalcy in our lives, however, gatherings and events have moved online to Zoom. It has become a universal emblem of connection and interaction despite such difficult and unprecedented times, for the United States and the world.
Honorable Mention: C. D., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Chien-Shiung Wu, physicist (1912-1997)
Caption: Worked on the Manhattan Project and devised an experiment to disprove the law of conservation of parity.
Description: I chose to draw Chien-Shiung Wu because of her critical contributions to nuclear physics. She helped develop a method to separate uranium into the isotopes U-235 and U-238 during the Manhattan Project and proceeded to investigate beta decay after the war. Her groundbreaking 1956 experiment disproved a commonly accepted law in the physics community; however, her contributions to this experiment were not acknowledged when her colleagues Tsung-Dao Lee and Chen-Ning Yang won a Nobel prize for it in 1957. Despite this, Wu received many distinctions for her work including the National Medal of Science, the Comstock Prize, and the Wolf Prize in Physics. Wu broke through many barriers as an Asian-American woman in science and her work with beta decay remains essential today.
Judges Biographies
CHIL KONG is Artistic Director of Adventure Theatre MTC, based in Glen Echo with an academy in Rockville, Maryland. He began his career in theater garnering multiple awards for his innovative reimagining of American classics and developing ground-breaking new works as artistic director of theater companies in Boston, San Diego, Seattle, and in Los Angeles as the Co-Artistic Director of the critically acclaimed Lodestone Theatre Ensemble. After a successful career in theater, Chil was tapped as the creative director of a film fund which focused on English based stories for the Asian market. He has returned to his hometown in the Washington, D.C. area.
ATHENA ROBLES, Board Chair, Asian American Arts Alliance, is from the Washington, D.C. area. She is a visual artist whose work involves drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and installation. She has exhibited her work nationally, including at the Contemporary Museum in Honolulu, DC’s Emerge Art Fair and in New York at the American Museum of Natural History and the New Museum’s IdeasCity. Athena is a recipient of a Van Lier Fellowship, among several grants and awards, and she has participated on panels for the Ford Foundation, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and others. Athena values community service and currently serves as a board member for the Asian American Arts Alliance.
Athena has taught art to students from pre-school to collegiate level and aims to foster an appreciation for creativity and to build problem-solving skills through art. Recently she served as a substitute art teacher for Capital City Public Charter School and has taught private art lessons locally. Athena lives in Chevy Chase, DC with her husband, son and a sweet Rhodesian Ridgeback.
SHINEH KIM YOON is Founder of Shineh Art Studio, LLC, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, as well as a mother, artist and educator. She specializes in fine art. Shortly after she immigrated from South Korea at age 15, she was recognized as Maryland's Emerging Young Artist from MAEA (Maryland Art Education Association). Shineh attended the Maryland Institute College of Art specializing in the field of Illustration, receiving a scholarship for her artistic achievement as a finalist in the Maryland Distinguished Scholars Program.
Shineh started Shineh Art Studio, LLC in 2003, where she teaches visual arts to students in grades K-12 to college transfers. Shineh is a three-time nationally recognized art educator from the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. Many of her students have been recognized for local, region-at-large and national competitions and have been admitted to prestigious art colleges and universities with reputable art programs.
Other artworks by participant names in the elementary, middle and high school categories:
Elementary Schools
D. B., Farmland ES
Public Figure: Timothy Hwang, CEO of FiscalNote, (1992- )
Caption: Trying to change the world with technology.
Description: The reason why I chose Timothy Hwang is because I have a lot of things in common with him which makes it a little easier for me to learn about him. There are three things I think are really important about him. First, he is trying to change the world with technology which is one of his talents. Second, he likes to help people who are in need. Finally, I chose him because he set an example for me. He made a difference in my life. Someday in the future, I hope to be like him. He is amazing.
A. C., Snowden Farm ES
Public Figure: Linda Sue Park, author (1960- )
Caption: Made awesome books and taught others about different cultures.
Description: I chose Linda Sue Park because she wrote many amazing books and she is Korean- American just like me. Also, I love to read books and I think it’s so amazing how she gets all the ideas! Linda Sue Park won a John Newbery Award which is so great. This is why I picked Linda Sue Park.
K. C., Ritchie Park ES
Public Figure: Tammy Duckworth, first Thai woman elected to Congress. (1963- )
Caption: As a retired war-time pilot and current U.S. senator, Duckworth is the first Thai- American woman elected to Congress.
Description: I chose Tammy Duckworth because she tried to do a lot of things for our country and made goals. At the end, I think she did achieve all her goals. She first became a pilot in the Iraq War. When she came back, she became the first Thai woman elected to Congress. Later she set another goal to be a senator. Indeed, she is currently a senator till 2023. I like Tammy Duckworth because she is a hard working and motivational person who sets goals high and tries to achieve them.
J. E., Bayard Rustin ES
Public Figure: Michelle Kwan, figure skater and Olympic medalist (1980- )
Caption: She is pretty and an Olympic winning ice skater.
Description: I chose her because she ice skates and she is the best ice skater.
R. E., Bayard Rustin ES
Public Figure: Jerry Yang, Ccmputer programmer, internet entrepreneur, and venture capitalist. (1968- )
Caption: Jerry Yang made a website and sold it and became a billionaire.
Description: He designed a website and I like computers. I chose him because I liked that he sold the website and became a billionaire.
A. G., Poolesville ES
Public Figure: Yoshiko Uchida, American writer (1921-1992)
Caption: Yoshiko and her family getting on a train to a concentration camp (Topaz).
Description: I learned about Yoshiko in school and was fascinated by her story. I drew Yoshiko because I don’t want people to repeat that. Families that went to camp had a number and I included her family number in the drawing.
C. J., Farmland ES
Public Figure: Michelle Kwan, figure skater (1980- )
Caption: She maintained her status as not only America’s most popular figure skater but as one of America’s most popular female athletes.
Description: I chose this person because she was one of the best figure skaters of the part-school figure area.
S. J., Farmland ES
Public Figure: Michelle Kwan, figure skater (1980- )
Caption: She is the most decorated figure skater in U.S. history.
Description: I chose this person because she was beautiful and kind of hard to draw. She also won a silver medal and a bronze medal. Also when she was 13, she won her first world championship.
L. J., Rachel Carson ES
Public Figure: Jennifer Yuh Nelson, Korean-American director and storyboard artist (1972- )
Caption: Kung Fu Panda - one of the best animation movies for young kids and adults across cultures and humanity.
Description: Yuh is the first woman to solely direct an animated feature from a major Hollywood studio. Kung Fu Panda is one of the most financially successful films directed by a woman. The panda movie leads us to think about the important things of life, love, encouragement, patience, and bravery. Respect teachers and friends. Stay away from bad influence and fight to protect our family and community if needed.
G. J., Westover ES
Public Figure: Vera Wang, fashion designer, (1949- )
Caption: She is recognized for designing wedding and bridesmaid dresses and is a leader in the fashion industry.
Description: I picked Vera Wang because my mom showed me dresses that she made for Barbie dolls. I love Barbie dolls. I thought the dresses were beautiful and learned that she also made dresses for not just dolls but for people too.
J. K., Luxmanor ES
Public Figure: Thomas Hong, American short track speed skater (1997- )
Caption: He competed in the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Description: Thomas Hong competed in many major short track speed skating events including the 2018 Winter Olympics. Even though he didn’t get a gold medal, he showed great potential as an Asian-American sportsman. So I believe he will surely get gold medals in the future.
J. K., Luxmanor ES
Public Figure: Lisa Ling, journalist (1973- )
Caption: Visited dangerous countries and worked to improve lives of people who are unfairly treated in those countries.
Description: Lisa Ling is a brave American journalist. She went to Afghanistan where it is very dangerous because people in that country fight each other many times. Especially, men in that country think that men are much better than women, and therefore women are treated poorly and are under poor and dangerous situations. Lisa Ling is a woman, but she went to that dangerous country. She gave food to women and poor people, and also reported the unfair situations in that country and let many people all over the world know it. She said that “the more we know about each other, the better we become” at a university. I was really impressed by her words and brave works. This is the reason why I chose “Lisa Ling” as an Asian-American who has contributed to American society.
Elementary Schools
L. L., Farmland ES
Public Figure: Alysa Liu, figure skater (2005- )
Caption: Showed at a young age with her talent and hard work that she can be the best.
Description: Alysa Liu is the youngest ever U.S. Ladies’ National Champion and inspired young people to work hard and follow their dreams. I am also learning figure skating and am at free skate level 3. When I looked at Alysa Liu, I was amazed how skillful and graceful she was. She is only a few years older than me. I am inspired to work harder to improve my skills.
A. M., Garrett Park ES
Public Figure: Bruce Lee, actor, director, martial artist, martial arts instructor, philosopher (1940-1973)
Caption: Inspired and spread martial arts to the West in the 70s and became a role model for the minorities.
Description: I decided to draw Bruce Lee because he was very inspiring to the public. Athletes, actors, directors, and musicians credited Lee for being a huge influence.
E. O., Brooke Grove ES
Public Figure: Mitori Goto, violinist and UN Messenger of Peace (1971- )
Caption: Midori Goto is a world famous violinist. In addition, she is an educator and helps under-privileged students through her foundation Midori and Friends.
Description: I chose Midori because she is a great example for all Americans. I also play the violin and admire her artistry. She helps under-privileged children learn music. For her work, she was appointed the UN Messenger of Peace.
K. W. O., Brooke Grove ES
Public Figure: Michio Kaku, theoretical physicist and popularizer of science
Caption: Dr. Kaku is a world-famous theoretical physicist. He has written many books, and helped make science more popular.
Description: Dr. Kaku’s parents met in an internment camp during World War II. He graduated from Harvard University. He has many articles published in physics journals, and has written 15 books. He is also famous in popular culture, appearing on TV, radio, and podcasts. I chose him because I want to be a scientist and an astronaut.
C. (A.) S., Bayard Rustin ES
Public Figure: Dr. Har Gobind Khorana, Indian-American Nobel Laureate (1968) in physiology
Caption: Showing the order of nucleotides in nucleic acids, carrying genetic codes in cells.
Description: Dr. Khorana was the first scientist to chemically synthesize oligonucleotides. This was done in the 1970s and was the world’s first synthetic gene. He is known as the founding father of the field of chemical biology. My dad works in the biomedical field and is very inspired by Dr. Khorana.
A. S., Rachel Carson ES
Public Figure: Kai Shang, Mayor of Attleboro, Massachusetts (1916-1999)
Caption: First Asian-American mayor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Description: Kai Shang was the first Asian to become mayor in Massachusetts. He was my cousin. He wanted to help people and decided to run. He won 3 times. I could be mayor one day because he was able to do it!
E. S., Rachel Carson ES
Public Figure: Kai Shang, Mayor of Attleboro, Massachusetts (1916-1999)
Caption: First Asian-American mayor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Description: Kai Shang was the first Asian to become mayor in Massachusetts. He was my cousin. He wanted to help people and decided to run. He won 3 times. I could be mayor one day because he was able to do it!
A. S., Farmland ES
Public Figure: Aiko Herzig-Yoshinaga, social activist and researcher (1924-2018)
Caption: Found out about the truth of the internment of Japanese-Americans.
Description: The reason why she is an important public figure is because she found out that the truth about the internment of Japanese-Americans was because of racism, not military necessity, and helped the U.S. government apologize to Japanese-Americans by researching and protesting. I chose to draw her because I’m also Japanese-American and I don’t want that to happen again.
M. W., Bayard Rustin ES
Public Figure: Michelle Kwan, Olympic figure skater (1980- )
Caption: She is an inspiration to children around the world.
Description: I like Michelle Kwan because she tries very hard and challenges herself to do better. I read that when she was young, she wanted to be in an intermediate figure skating class. Her parents didn’t think she was ready. She went ahead and took the test anyway without telling anyone. She passed the test and showed everyone that she was ready.
L. W., Travilah ES
Public Figure: Chloe Kim, snowboarder (2000- )
Caption: Chloe Kim is a young Olympic gold medal winner who is inspirational.
Description: I chose Chloe Kim for many reasons. One reason why is that she never gives up. One of her quotes describes that your dream can be tricky, but in the end you will succeed, which is inspiring to me. Chloe also explains that being young doesn’t mean that she didn’t work as hard as other snowboarders did to achieve goals.
M. W., Wayside ES
Public Figure: Jeremy Shu-How Lin, American professional basketball player (NBA) (1988- )
Caption: He is the first Asian-American to play in the NBA. Also became a role model for young Asian-Americans.
Description: Since he became an NBA player, in the 2011-2012 season he led the New York Knicks with a seven game winning streak and helped the Knicks win their first playoff game since 2001. Lin appeared on the covers of Sports Illustrated and Time and was named by the Time 100 as one of the most influential people in the world. In July 2012, Lin won the ESPY Award for Breakthrough Athlete of the Year! Lin is the first Asian-American to win an NBA title.
Middle Schools
A. C., Hallie Wells MS
Public Figure: Sarah Chang, violinist (1980- )
Caption: Moved people’s hearts through beautiful music, and inspired many young people.
Description: I chose Sarah Chang because she inspires others and creates music passionately. She started from a very young age, and I find that inspiring and encouraging. Also, music has always helped me express my feelings. Sarah Chang is also Korean-American, like I am. These things all led me to choose Sarah Chang.
C. E., North Bethesda MS
Public Figure: Maya Lin, architect and artist, (1959- )
Caption: Maya Lin did many wonderful things to benefit the U.S.A and the people.
Description: Maya Lin designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Many of my family members have served in the Vietnam War and I am grateful for Maya Lin’s beautiful work. I also chose Maya Lin because of one of her quotes that inspires me: “To fly we must have resistance.” I love Maya Lin’s work and I am inspired by her and thankful for all the amazing things she has accomplished.
J. E., Herbert Hoover MS
Public Figure: Kelly Yang, author, (1985- )
Caption: Kelly Yang is an author who inspires many.
Description: She writes amazing books; helps support charities and is an inspiring role model. I love to read, write, and care about others so I chose Kelly Yang because she has a similar passion.
J. L., Kingsview MS
Public Figure: Sunisa (Suni) Lee, Olympic gymnast (2003- )
Caption: Gives inspiration to girl athletes that they can be as good as other athletes.
Description: I chose Suni Lee because she shows that she, like other women, can be just as good as men in sports. For example, she has won gold, silver, and bronze in the Olympics, and is said to be the next Simone Biles. Suni also shows that Asian-Americans have a place in the spotlight of America’s greatest athletes.
B. L., Tilden MS
Public Figure: Andrew Yang, entrepreneur and candidate in the 2020 Democratic Presidential Primaries (1976- )
Caption: Is the most recognizable Asian-American to run for president and inspired Asian-Americans to be engaged in politics.
Description: Andrew Yang is an inspiring, logical, and forward looking person. I like his slogans such as “Make America Think Harder (MATH)”, “Humanity First”, and “Not Left, Not Right, But Forward”. I also think his proposal of “universal basic income” also makes a lot of sense and probably will help our economy, especially in this COVID-19 crisis. I wish that he was still running for president and hadn’t dropped out. Because of him, I am more interested in learning about politics.
N. S., Hallie Wells MS
Public Figure: Nora Lum (Awkwafina), actress (1988- )
Caption: Showed Asians all around the world that anything is possible by being the first Asian woman to win a Golden Globe Award.
Description: I chose Awkwafina because people all around the world look up to her. She is not afraid to be herself and try something new. Being the first woman that is Asian to win a Golden Globe Award gives Asian-Americans all over the world hope that they can also make a difference.
I. S., Lakelands Park MS
Public Figure: Julia Chang Bloch, first Chinese-American diplomat (1942- )
Caption: The first U.S. ambassador of Asian descent.
Description: Julia Chang Bloch was the first U.S. ambassador of Asian descent. She was the ambassador to Nepal from 1989-1993. I chose this public figure because she paved the way for Asian girls like me to one day become a diplomat!
V. S., Herbert Hoover MS
Public Figure: Nora Lum, aka Awkwafina, actress (1973- )
Caption: Awkwafina is the first woman of Asian descent to win a Golden Globe Award in any lead actress film with her role in the comedy drama, “The Farewell”.
Description: The Asian-Americans are largely unseen in the performing arts in America. To combat the “perpetuate foreigner” image and other stereotypes, we need to have regular Asian-American characters and stories in movies, TV series, and theatres. Awkwafina is one of the few Asian-Americans that has her own talk show and music albums. She is a positive role model to inspire all Asian-American youth to be in the performing arts. She is an image that can reach all Americans for them to know that we are part of the American society.
S. T., Roberto Clemente MS
Public Figure: Jun-Fan Lee (Bruce Lee), actor, director, martial artist, philosopher (1940-1973)
Caption: Changed how Chinese people were portrayed in the West and bridged the cultural gap between the East and the West through martial arts.
Description: I chose Bruce Lee for this poster because I have always loved his movies and he was a very influential and notable martial artist in both the East and the West. He taught and used a new form of martial arts that would work in a real fight and expanded the Chinese culture across the West. Bruce Lee has inspired me and many others through his work and that is why I’ve decided to honor him through this poster.
High Schools
A. A., Springbrook HS
Public Figure: Tyrus Wong, artist, painter, and animator (1910-2016)
Caption: Through his work in Bambi and many paintings with strong Chinese influence, he has entertained and inspired all ages.
Description: I chose Tyrus Wong because he was well versed in the arts. He was also an animator for Disney’s Bambi which inspires me. My dream is to become an animator in the future. I want to bring entertainment and joy to both the young and the old like he did.
A. B., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, astrophysicist (1910-1995)
Caption: Known for his studies combining astronomy and physics, including theories about white dwarfs, black holes, and relativity
Description: One reason I chose Mr. Chandrasekhar is because I feel like I can partially relate to him, being an Indian-American myself. I feel proud when people of Indian descent earn recognition for their work, like he did in the form of a Nobel Prize. Also, I have a fascination with space and stars, and would like to come up with theories of my own in a particular field. Furthermore, he has been described by many as positive and kind, and even though people doubted his work and disagreed with him at times, he was perseverant.
D. C., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Kalpana Chawla, first Indian-American female astronaut, (1961-2003)
Caption: Kalpana Chawla lost her life in the ill-fated STS-107 shuttle Colombia but was indeed a true hero of space exploration of mankind.
Description: I got interested in Asian-American women thanks to this contest. One day I was fortunate enough to come across Kalpana Chawla. When I read a description of who she was, I instantly admired her. I first felt sorry for her when I read that she died while coming back to Earth in the STS-107 shuttle Colombia. But then I felt deep respect because even if she did land safely down, going up into space is very dangerous and challenging and there’s always a slim chance that something could go wrong. She was really brave for even going up in space. Another reason I chose Kalpana Chawla is because I am myself interested in space and astrology. It’s remarkable that she was the first Indian-American woman to go up in space.
J. C., Clarksburg HS
Public Figure: Jonny Kim, Navy SEAL, doctor, astronaut (1984- )
Caption: Everyone can achieve anything as long as they have a goal that is big and very passionate to achieve.
Description: I chose him as my public figure because anyone can be anything. If they have the mindset that is set from that person in order to succeed in life.
M. E., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Wong Kim Ark, restaurant cook and was in the United States. Wong Kim Ark case, (1873- )
Caption: Demonstrates that advocacy can lead to change. Incentivising young people to work on making a positive impact at a global scale. Similar to the way Wong Kim Ark was able to establish the concept “jus-soli” and support the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment.
Description: I chose Wong Kim Ark because he was very important in history and he continues to be important to people today. His advocacy for citizenship rights created a positive change throughout the whole country. His Supreme Court case set a precedent where people born in the U.S. will be considered as U.S. citizens, disregarding the legal status of the parents. Due to his case, thousands of people are U.S. citizens and considered as American.
J. K., Thomas Wootton HS
Public Figure: Irene Kim, model (1987- )
Caption: Showed young Asian people that they can also express themselves through fashion.
Description: Models travel all around the world, experience many cultures, and meet many people. Therefore, they can share their heritage through their expression of art, other people’s art, and connect all kinds of cultures so that everyone can appreciate them.
E. L., Montgomery Blair HS
Public Figure: Jonathan Chen, co-founder of FiscalNote (1991- )
Caption: Co-founder of FiscalNote, a platform that analyzes government data using artificial intelligence to find trends and forecast outcomes for the public.
Description: I chose Jonathan Chen as my public figure because he found a way to make government data more transparent for the general public in a world where keeping up with how the government runs is very important. While graduating from the University of Maryland as the valedictorian and delivering the student commencement speech at his graduation ceremony, he also co-founded FiscalNote with two of his Wootton High School classmates. This start-up in D.C. has worked with many companies to find trends in data, and can even predict the passage of a bin with 95% accuracy. He has been featured in many newspapers and magazines in the U.S., and even in Business Today in Taiwan! Jonathan Chen is a very inspiring Taiwanese-American who continues to benefit our world today.
Y. L., Richard Montgomery HS
Public Figure: Constance Wu, actress (1982- )
Caption: Provided Asian-Americans with positive, meaningful representation on the big screen beyond shallow stereotypes.
Description: Constance Wu was one of the first Asian-American actors I could recognize and name. Growing up, Asians didn’t get much representation in media and media beyond “that nerdy background character”. “Fresh off the Boat” was the first time I saw a TV show where I saw my own family reflected on screen, with main characters that actually looked like me. “Crazy Rich Asians”, the first Hollywood movie in decades with an all-Asian cast, was the first time I ever saw mainstream celebration of Asian culture. For me and many others my age, she was one of the first who truly represented us.
R. O., Montgomery Blair HS
Public Figure: Chen Ning Yang
Caption: N/A
Description: In 1957, Chen Ning Yang and Tsung Pao Lee became the first physics Nobel laureates of Chinese origin for finding exceptions to the theories of parity symmetry in quantum mechanics and other major contributions to the field of particle physics. I chose Chen Ning Yang because he symbolizes the efflorescence of modern Asian science which builds upon the glorious foundations of a long scientific heritage. He represents the vanguard of modern Asian scientists reclaiming their central position on the world stage after a period of political and social upheaval.
F. Z., Winston Churchill HS
Public Figure: Nathan Chen, American figure skater (1999- )
Caption: An exceptional young figure skater that serves as one of the few athletes in the Olympics and other events as an Asian-American role model.
Description: As a young Asian-American teenager, I grew up with little Asian-American role models to look up to, especially in sports. Nathan Chen is someone I look up to, not only because he’s an exceptional skater, but because he is a young, relatable, and most importantly, Asian-American athlete. He’s someone that represents my population-the first generation children of Asian immigrants-in the big international events. He’s the role model I would’ve loved to have as a young child.
Z. (L.) Z., Winston Churchill HS
Public Figure: Alysa Liu, figure skater (2005- )
Caption: By becoming a national champion at 13 years old, Alysa inspires young people to chase their dreams with courage and passion.
Description: Alysa Liu is one of the few people who made such a remarkable accomplishment at such a young age. She is especially inspiring to many young people who have doubts about their ambitions and dreams. She is courageous and willing to challenge what was believed to be the impossible. With her work ethic and determination, she proved to people of all ages that nothing is impossible.
New Changes as of March 31:
1) the deadline has been extended to April 22;
2) we now accept art by email.
The month of May is officially designated as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. During that month, we learn about the history of AAPIs since their arrival in the United States in the mid-1800's, recalling their challenges and celebrating their contributions to American society.
All Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) students K-12 are invited to submit artwork for a poster that features a notable Asian American and her/his contributions. The entries will be judged by community art and art performance professionals in a poster contest.
First place ($100), second place ($75) and third place ($50) winners will be selected for each of the elementary, middle and high school categories for a total nine awards.
Application
Flyer V12.pdfSubmit by April 22
Rules
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) during the 2019-2020 school year. Only one entry per applicant is allowed.
Content: Identify a notable living or deceased Asian American. Create art that captures that person's likeness and images that represents her/his contributions.
Format (all three required):
Art piece on a single, two-dimensional sheet of Tabloid-size paper (11"x 17")
Consent & release form
Application form, including:
name, professional title and birth/death dates of Asian American contributor, Example: Gene Luen Yang, Graphic Novelist and Cartoonist (1973-);
suggested caption (maximum 24 words) that summarizes the essence of the contribution, Example: Showed young people the potential of comics to explore present-day and historical events through a contemporary Chinese American lens;
brief description why student chose the public figure.
FAQ
Q: Who are Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) figures?
A: An Asian American and Pacific Islander whom the poster contest seeks to highlight is a person – living or deceased – who is/was an American, lived in the United States and made significant social, cultural, political or economic contributions to this country.
Q: What forms can be used to create the art?
A: Students may use drawings, paintings, photographs, digital art, ink stamps, etc. or a combination. The art does need to be two-dimensional, on Tabloid-size (11”x17” or 17"x11") paper, or a digital equivalent as follows:
For .png or .pdf scanned by scanner, set scan size to 11"x17" or 17"x11" with 300dpi with 16-bit (or 8-bit) RGB color.
For .png or .pdf saved or exported from applications, set media size to 11"x17" or 17"x11" with 300dpi with 8-bit (or 16-bit) RGB color.
For .docx saved by Microsoft Word or downloaded from Google Docs, set the page size to Tabloid (11"x17" or 17"x11") with 0" margins.
For .pptx saved by Microsoft PowerPoint, set both slide size and page size to Tabloid (11"x17" or 17"x11") with 0" non-printable area.
For .pptx downloaded from Google Slides, set page setup to Tabloid (11"x17" or 17"x11").
Q: Does the art have to be in portrait or landscape format?
A: The art can be in either portrait or landscape format.
Q: May the applicant send the submission by email?
A: Yes. We accept e-submission by email following the format requirement stated above.
Q: How does the student submit their artwork if they are sending 11”x17” to a post box mailing address?
A: The student may use a large envelope or mailing tube available at a local office supply store. The U.S. Postal Service will store the large envelope or mailing tube in a larger space than the post office box so that the art does not become damaged.
Q: May the student write a poem, essay or narrative?
A: Students will be judged primarily on the visual art that captures the Asian American role model’s likeness and images that represents his/her contributions; they may use written words to enhance the visual art.
Q: Can the student sign the artwork?
A: No. To ensure that the judges will not see the students’ names, please only identify the student on the accompanying application and consent & release forms. After the contest, the winners and applicants will be identified alongside their work.
Q: Who are the judges?
A: The judges are artists, art educators and performing art professionals from the local community.
Questions?
Submit Artwork
APASAAG c/o Aryani Ong
PO BOX 4284
Gaithersburg, MD 20885
Deadline:
Postmarked or dated April 22, 2020
Sponsors:
Asian Pacific American Student Achievement Action Group (APASAAG)*,
Chinese American Parents Association - Montgomery County (CAPA-MC),
Calvin Li Memorial Foundation,
the City of Rockville Asian American Task Force,
Association of Vietnamese Americans (AVA),
Indonesian American Association (IAA).
*APASAAG is an advisory body, whose members engage in regular dialogue with MCPS to provide feedback on issues affecting the Asian Pacific American (APA) community and advocate on behalf of APA students.