SACRAMENTO — Orestimba High School incoming senior Kelly Zapien capped her sixth year in National History Day with a finalist finish and a statewide longevity award during the May 1–2 competition in Sacramento, where she represented her school with a documentary on former First Lady Betty Ford.
Zapien advanced to the state contest after winning first place at the Stanislaus County level with her documentary, “A First Lady’s Revolution: Betty Ford’s Battle to Reform the Taboo of Breast Cancer.” She said competing at the state level — with her family in the audience and her father serving as her coach — was an experience she will never forget.
“It was an incredible experience having my family there with me,” she said. “I advanced into the Top 15 finalist round, and on May 2, the Top 3 projects were announced for qualification to the national competition in Maryland.”
Although she did not place in the top three this year, Zapien said she was proud of how far she advanced and grateful for the recognition she received. Out of hundreds of entries statewide, she was honored with the Marvin Awbrey Longevity Award, which recognizes students who have reached the state competition multiple times.
“Being recognized in this way made me reflect on everything I’ve learned and everyone I’ve met along the way,” she said. “This award officially recognizes me as a historian, which is something I feel very grateful for.”
Zapien said her six years in National History Day have shaped her both academically and personally. “The history I’ve researched, the stories I’ve uncovered, and the people I’ve spoken with have all shaped me in ways I will carry forward,” she said.
She also attended the Civic Summit, a program she has participated in for four years, where she connected with other students who “encouraged me and shared valuable knowledge that helped me grow as a researcher and presenter.”
Zapien will enter her senior year this fall and is already preparing her next documentary. Her goal is clear: “Next year will be my final year. I hope to achieve my goal of placing in the Top 3 and advancing to Maryland for nationals.”
She hopes her journey inspires others to participate. “I hope more young people take the step to share their voices through history,” she said. “We are the voices of our generation, and our stories matter.”
