Young Artists Recognized at Circuit Court Clerk’s 6th Annual Law Day Award Ceremony

Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Young Artists Recognized at Circuit Court Clerk’s 6th Annual Law Day Award Ceremony

On May 1, 2026, at 6 p.m., Jacqueline Smith, Esq., Clerk of the 31st Judicial Circuit Court, hosted her 6th Annual Law Day Award Ceremony at the historic Prince William County Old Manassas Courthouse. The event celebrated student artwork illustrating this year’s theme, “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.” Several young artists were recognized for their creativity and received awards for their submissions.

Law Day, observed each May, is a national initiative that highlights the importance of the rule of law in a free society. Established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the observance encourages reflection on the principles that support an orderly, fair, and just system. Legal professionals across the country mark the occasion through educational programs, community events, and civic engagement activities.

Clerk Smith’s annual Law Day Art Contest blends civics education with artistic expression, offering local students a dynamic platform to explore the role of law in American life. The contest encourages thoughtful dialogue, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the values that shape our democracy.

During this year’s ceremony, Tom Gordy, Brentsville District Supervisor, presented Clerk Smith with an official Law Day Proclamation on behalf of the Prince William County Board of County Supervisors. The proclamation underscored the significance of the rule of law and its connection to the American experience.

In alignment with the national theme, the contest invited public participation through an online voting system. Finalists were selected through community polling, and winners were chosen across four categories: high school, middle school, and two elementary school divisions.

First-place artwork include:
Elementary School (1^st – 2^nd grades): “My Voice Matters” by Anuhea M. of Covington-Harper Elementary
Elementary School (3^rd – 5^th grades): “Dream for the World” by Rose L. of The Merit School of Prince William
Middle School (6th–8th grades): “Freedom For All” by Abigail N. of Gainesville Middle School
High School (9th–12th grades): “We Can Do This” by Marcus B. of Patriot High School

All artwork will be displayed at the Manassas Park City Library, located at 100 Park Central Plaza, Manassas Park, VA 20111, beginning May 13, 2026.

The Circuit Court Clerk’s Office extends appreciation to the schools and students from Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park for their participation. A special thank you to the generous sponsors who supported student awards and activities, including Manassas Park City Library, Prince William County Historic Preservation, Prince William Public Libraries, Open Space Arts, Bach to Rock - Bristow, Cafe Pottery and Splatter Paint Room (A.C. Fun Factory), Dabble Creative ReUse Center, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Time Mission, Uptown Alley, Benny Capolago’s Pizza, Honey & Ivy Gluten Free, AR Workshop – Gainesville, Prince William County Parks and Recreation, and The Merit Schools of Manassas and Prince William County.

For more information about the Clerk’s Annual Law Day Art Contest, please visit https://www.pwcva.gov/department/circuit-court/clerks-annual-law-day-art-contest. Follow @PWCCircuitCourt on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and YouTube for updates.