Two Viewpoint students will take center stage on Monday, June 9 at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City after receiving National Gold Medals in the 2025 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards—the highest honor in the nation’s most prestigious recognition program for teen artists and writers.

Cedar Cummins ’25 was recognized in the ceramics category for their piece Trans Armour, while Declan O’Bryan ’25 earned the award for one of his photographs. Their artwork was selected from hundreds of thousands of student submissions nationwide, placing them among the top creative talents in grades 7–12.

“I didn’t expect this at all. It’s an incredible way to end my senior year, and it means a great deal to conclude my high school photography experience with such a prestigious honor,” shared O’Bryan.

"Ceramics has been a part of my life for five years now, and 15-year-old me—selling mugs and ceramic pendants at backyard concerts—never would’ve imagined receiving national recognition for my work," added Cummins. "This honor motivates me to keep creating and to push myself artistically in new ways. I’m incredibly grateful to my amazing mentor, Nell Yates; my parents; Scholastics; and my sister Kira, who has always been the spark behind my creativity."

Past ceremonies have featured appearances by luminaries such as Oprah Winfrey, Amy Schumer, Tim Gunn, Tina Fey, and Zac Posen, underscoring the significance of this moment for young creatives across the country.

Viewpoint is proud to celebrate Cedar and Declan’s national recognition and looks forward to seeing their artistic talents continue to flourish in the years ahead.