Sioux Falls, S.D. — April 25, 2025 — The Emily’s Hope Youth Art Competition brought together young artists from across Sioux Falls to creatively express themes of hope, healing, and substance use prevention. Held on Thursday, April 24 at the Washington Pavilion, the event recognized outstanding student work that promotes a drug- and alcohol-free, healthy lifestyle through the power of art.
Many gathered to view the inspiring pieces, submitted by middle and high school students from local schools. The event featured guest speaker Christian Olson, a local artist in recovery, who shared a message of resilience and how artistic expression helped him navigate his own journey.
Five students were honored as first-place winners of the 2025 competition:
- Adalynn Lavender, Patrick Henry Middle School
- Kennedy Brown, O’Gorman High School
- Aurora diRiso, Jefferson High School
- Grace Kiser, Roosevelt High School
- Emily Stahlberg, Washington High School
Runner-up recognition was awarded to:
- Kyper Hilger, Alternative Instruction
- Zuri Cleland, Roosevelt High School
- Adelyn Schmitt, Jefferson High School
- Sophie DeMore, O’Gorman High School
- Ava Kay Smith, Patrick Henry Middle School
The competition, held for the first time this year, is part of Emily’s Hope’s growing prevention efforts led by the Youth Prevention Coalition—an initiative supported through the organization’s Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant. By engaging youth in meaningful ways through education, outreach, and creative expression, Emily’s Hope aims to foster a culture of prevention and resilience within the community.
“The talent and vulnerability these young artists shared through their work was incredible,” said Kayli Fitz, Content & Event Marketing Manager at Emily’s Hope. “Their voices are powerful, and their art reminds us all that prevention begins with awareness, education, and connection.”
Guests at the event were treated to light refreshments, a gallery viewing, and the opportunity to engage with the Emily’s Hope staff and Youth Prevention Coalition. Winners received trophies donated by JD’s House of Trophies, and runner-ups were presented with a certificate. The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of Avera Health, JD’s House of Trophies, and the Washington Pavilion.
The student artwork will remain on display at the Washington Pavilion through this weekend. Beginning Monday, April 28, the winning pieces will be moved to the Charlotte Carver Gallery at City Hall, where they will be showcased for the community to view and celebrate the creative contributions of local youth.
The Youth Art Competition is aligned with Emily’s Hope’s mission to remove the stigma of substance use disorder and prevent future tragedies through early intervention and education. To learn more or get involved, visit www.emilyshope.charity.
About Emily’s Hope:
Emily’s Hope is a non-profit organization dedicated to removing the stigma of substance use disorder through awareness, education, and prevention; and eliminating financial barriers for treatment and recovery. Founded by Angela Kennecke in memory of her daughter Emily, Emily’s Hope has helped nearly 250 people enter recovery, launched the Emily’s Hope Substance Use Prevention Curriculum for students K-5, and is developing a companion curriculum for grades 6-12.
This webpage is supported by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award funded by ONDCP. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ONDCP, CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.