As America approaches her 250th birthday in 2026, the Acalanes Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) recognized outstanding students and community leaders at its American History, Good Citizens, and NSDAR Awards Tea held Feb. 7 in Moraga.

    The chapter honored area high school seniors through the DAR Good Citizens Program, which celebrates students who exemplify dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Local honorees included Rebecca Tanner (Campolindo High School), Leyla Nguyen (Las Lomas High School), and Annabel Strickler (Miramonte High School). Dunya Akcali of Bentley School and Olivia Greer of Contra Costa Christian School were recognized as well.

    Middle school students were celebrated through the American History Essay Contest, which this year asked students to imagine meeting a signer of the Declaration of Independence and explain that patriot’s role in achieving independence. Local winners were Jason Lee (Grade 8), Brooklyn Bishop (Grade 7), and Christian Lee (Grade 6), all of Orinda Intermediate School, as well as Betty Warrner of Marin Elementary School.

    Special national honors highlighted the event. Lafayette resident Katherine Greenberg received the NSDAR Conservation Medal for more than five decades of leadership promoting California native plants. Christi Hockel Davenport of Walnut Creek—an actor, speaker, and self-advocate born with Down syndrome—received the Women in American History Medal for her advocacy and community impact. DAR likewise honored the legacy of founder Eleanor Richards Lyon.

    Through these programs, the Acalanes Chapter continues its mission of promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism in the Lamorinda community. Contact the chapter at acalanesdar@gmail.com.