***NEWS RELEASE***
CENTREVILLE, MD – On June 11, 2025, Queen Anne’s County High School’s own Casey Johnson took the national stage at Carnegie Hall in New York City during the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards National Ceremony. Casey was recognized as a National Silver Medalist and received the prestigious New York Life Award—an honor given to only five visual artists in the entire country.
Casey’s award‑winning ceramic piece was created in memory of her father, turning deep personal loss into a powerful expression of healing. “Art gives voice when words are hard to say,” her teachers shared, noting how Casey has consistently channeled life experiences into meaningful creative work. Remarkably, every piece she has submitted over the past two years has earned either a Regional or National Scholastic Award—an accomplishment few can claim.
This year’s ceremony, featuring keynote speaker Tracy Morgan, brought together student artists and writers from across the nation for an unforgettable evening of celebration and inspiration.
Casey reflected on the moment:
“The National Ceremony was truly an unforgettable night that made me feel extremely celebrated but also inspired to embrace creativity as much as possible. It felt magical to be surrounded by so many artists my same age, united by the love we share for creating. I’m honored to have been a part of this once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience.”
Michael Bell, Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts for QACPS, shared his excitement over Casey’s recognition:
“Winning a national Scholastic medal is an incredible accomplishment—Andy Warhol himself won a Scholastic Award while still in high school, so you can see what an incredible honor this is. Casey’s recognition places her among less than one percent of student artists nationwide. To see her shine on a stage like Carnegie Hall, with her art resonating so deeply, is truly something special.”
Also celebrating the moment was Stephanie Zeiler, QACHS Visual Arts Department Coordinator and Lead Visual Arts Teacher, whose Scholastic Art Educator Medal is her second:
“As an educator, it brings my heart so much joy to see one of my students celebrated on such a big stage. Casey has been part of several of my 3D and 2D courses, and to see her efforts recognized on the national level, having the opportunity to shine so bright, is such a highlight.”
Queen Anne’s County Public Schools proudly congratulates Casey Johnson for her exceptional achievements and for representing our community with such talent and grace on the national stage.
Download a PDF copy of the news release here.