2024 Contest Winners

Ashley Resurreccion of Van Nuys, CA, won first place in the photo contest with ‘Mirror,’ an image captured at Garnet Lake. The serene, mirror-like reflection beautifully showcases the delicate balance of the surrounding ecosystems, reminding us how nature, like a mirror, reflects everything back to us in its tranquil beauty.

Laila Martinez of Baytown, TX, won first place in the visual arts contest with their imaginative and vibrant depiction of mountainous landscapes. This artwork uses colorful, layered lines to capture the dynamic textures of nature, with the rising sun emerging from behind the peaks and radiating a sense of vitality and creativity.

Annette Hollingshead of Virginia Beach, VA, won first place in the essay contest with their compelling paper, which examines the critical role soil plays in shaping our lives and challenges readers to reflect on its impact on their own health.

Kathy Yang of West Windsor, NJ, won first place in the video contest with their entry “Geoparks Connect Us All,” which highlights the importance of geoparks in preserving earth science and fostering global connections. Inspired by a visit to Cui Hua Mountain in Xi’an, China, Kathy’s video emphasizes how geoparks serve as educational hubs where people from around the world come together to explore Earth’s natural wonders and learn about earth science.