Selah Loyd a 6th grade student at Mt. Vernon Middle School, has taken the first step to becoming an internationally recognized artist by winning a local competition sponsored by the Mt. Vernon Lions Club.

Loyd’s poster was among more than 450,000 entries submitted worldwide in the annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Lions Clubs International is sponsoring the program to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere.  

“Peace is being kind to others, even when it’s hard,” the 12-year-old from Mt. Vernon said. The poster was selected by the Mt. Vernon Arts Council for its originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme, “Kindness Matters.” The judging was held on October 29 at Mt. Vernon Creates.  

Mt. Vernon Lions Club President Paul Fugate said he was impressed by the expression and creativity of the students at the Middle School. “It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas about what peace means to them. I’m so proud that we were able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions.”

Loyd’s poster will advance through the district, multiple district and international levels of competition if she is to be declared the international grand prize winner,” Fugate said.
One international grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award of US$5,000 plus a trip for the winner and two family members to a special award ceremony. The 23 merit award winners will each receive a certificate and a cash award of US$500  

“Our club is cheering for Selah as her poster advances in the competition, and we hope that her vision will ultimately be shared with others around the world,” Fugate said.   Locally, Loyd’s and 70 other students will be honored for their participation by the Mt. Vernon Lions Club at a later date.