Callie Hillman, a student at Austin High School, has achieved remarkable success in the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Junior Duck Stamp competition for Minnesota. After securing third place as a sophomore and second place the following year, Hillman has now claimed the top spot, earning both first place and the Best in Show award. This accomplishment makes her eligible to compete in the prestigious National Junior Duck Stamp Competition. Hillman is the first student from Austin Public Schools to win both distinctions in the annual contest, highlighting her exceptional talent and dedication.
Hillman’s winning artwork, entitled “Morning on the Lakeside,” features a pair of mallards standing in a patch of grass. She chose mallards for their familiarity and significance to Minnesota, expressing her appreciation for the blend of art and nature. The Junior Duck Stamp program has offered her a platform to explore these interests while supporting wetland preservation efforts. Hillman expressed her surprise and satisfaction with her victory, acknowledging that her hard work had been recognized and that her goals of competing nationally were within reach.
Under the guidance of her art teacher, Jake Levisen, Hillman has honed her skills and achieved this impressive milestone. Levisen has emphasized the dedication Hillman has demonstrated, spending around six hours on her award-winning piece. Levisen, himself a former second-place finisher in the Duck Stamp competition, praised Hillman for her relentless pursuit of excellence and her readiness to tackle new challenges. Hillman, who is contemplating a future in animal science, views her artwork as a reflection of the simple yet striking beauty of Minnesota wildlife, encapsulated in the familiar image of common ducks.
The Federal Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program aims to educate participants, from kindergarten through high school, about wetland and waterfowl conservation. The national winner’s design is featured on the Junior Duck Stamp, sold annually by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for $5. Proceeds support environmental education and recognition activities for students engaged in the program.
Impact on Daily Life
Callie Hillman’s achievements highlight the meaningful impact that arts education can have on young people, emphasizing the importance of nurturing creativity and environmental awareness in students. Her success may inspire other students to engage in artistic and conservation efforts, fostering a greater appreciation for the environment. Additionally, programs like the Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program demonstrate the potential for art to advocate for ecological preservation, serving as both a teaching tool and a source of funding for educational initiatives.
For the local community, Hillman’s achievements bring a sense of pride and recognition to Austin Public Schools, underscoring the value of supporting arts programs in education. Her journey reflects the broader societal benefits of encouraging young individuals to explore their passions and contribute to conservation efforts, ultimately fostering a more environmentally conscious and culturally enriched society. As students like Hillman gain exposure and accolades, it may lead to increased community interest and investment in similar programs, enhancing educational opportunities and cultural engagement for future generations.