WASHINGTON, D.C. – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today announced the winner of the annual Congressional Art Competition for high school students living in Eastern Washington.

First Place: “Albert Einstein” by Sophia DeFelice

First Place was awarded to Sophia DeFelice, a sophomore at Gonzaga Prep in Spokane, for her graphite on paper, “Albert Einstein.” As the winner, she had the opportunity to fly to Washington, D.C. to receive recognition for her talent, and her artwork will hang in the United States Capitol for a year. Sophia is the daughter of Monique and Vincent DeFelice, and her artistic prowess should come as no surprise – it runs in the family! Sophia’s father created the famous bronze bulldog statue at Gonzaga University. Sophia’s art teacher at Gonzaga Prep is Katelyn McDonnell.

Runner Up: “Expressionless Pixels” by Chloe Coffey

One of the four runner ups was Chloe Coffey, a freshman at College Place High School in College Place, for her digital imaging piece titled “Expressionless Pixels.” Chloe is the daughter of Kymberlee Hoskins. Her art teacher at College Place High School is Kathi DeBroeck.

Runner Up: “The Frozen Forest” by Jennifer Payton

Jennifer Payton, a sophomore at Shadle Park High School in Spokane, submitted a digital photograph titled “The Frozen Forest.” Jennifer is the daughter of Marlana and David Payton. Her art teacher at Shadle Park High School is Thomas Smith.

Runner Up: “The Tree” by Dakotah Piekos

Dakotah Piekos, a senior at SEA-TECH Skills Center in Walla Walla, submitted a photograph titled “The Tree.” Dakotah is the daughter of Ryan Piekos. Her art teacher at SEA-TECH Skills Center is Jeffrey Townsend.

Runner Up: “Freedom for All” by Kimberly “Kimby” Chaney

Kimberly “Kimby” Chaney, a freshman at Lakeside High School in Nine Mile Falls, submitted a watercolor titled “Freedom for All.” Kimby is the daughter of Scott and Sherry Chaney. Her art teacher at Lakeside High School is Bruce Blaser.

“I am so proud of all our talented students here in Eastern Washington,” said McMorris Rodgers. “They never fail to impress with their art of all varieties. Congratulations to Sophia! It was great to meet her this afternoon, and I look forward to seeing her beautiful drawing as I walk to the Capitol each day.”

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual competition for high school students across the United States. Each Congressional office selects one winner to display in the tunnel connecting the Cannon House Office Building to the U.S. Capitol traveled daily by members of Congress, staff, and visitors to Washington, D.C.