Posted on Thursday, April 02, 2026
History marks our experiences and future—an insight that made a lasting impact on LC alumnus Chance Giddens Ed.S.’11. For over two decades, the Troup County High School history teacher has helped shape the young minds of his students, including those competing at the National History Day state competition on April 18 at LaGrange College.
“I always tell my students that the National History Day project they work on in my A.P. European History class will do two things for them: They will improve upon their research skills right before they attend college, and they get to choose what they want to study,” he said. “Having that opportunity to study something they want to do instead of something they have to do is an experience that they will always remember.”
Giddens, who was previously selected as the Georgia National History Day Teacher of the Year, said one of the most rewarding experiences he had with his students was working with National History Day last year on the Silent Heroes program, which highlighted untold stories from veterans of the Korean War.
“When the family members of one of our Silent Heroes were able to make it to Fort Mitchell National Cemetery to hear the eulogy written for their mother, it made it even more special,” he said.
This year’s state competition, cosponsored by Georgia Humanities and LaGrange College, will have 512 students, 292 entries and 96 teachers representing 71 schools across Georgia. The theme for 2026 is “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.”
“National History Day provides an incredibly enriching experience for students in middle and high school to gain communication and historical thinking skills. Through their research, NHD empowers students to become experts on the topics they are passionate about,” said NHD Executive Director Dr. Cathy Gorn. “We are so grateful for all that Georgia Humanities and LaGrange College do to support history education and the next generation of historians, community-minded leaders and engaged citizens in Georgia.”
LC junior Sarena Hall, a volunteer judge for National History Day, said she likes to see the different perspectives the competitors bring to their research projects.
“When I'm judging, I get to learn about a myriad of interesting topics from students who want to talk about their work,” she said. “I've enjoyed being able to see the hard work of the participants and to recognize those students who put forth a stellar effort. Making those big picture connections from various eras of history is a wonderful skill to have, and a crucial part of the discipline of history.”
In April 2025, National History Day suffered a setback after the federal government cut funding for the National Endowment for the Humanities, a provider of grants for Georgia Humanities, a longtime sponsor of NHD and LC’s partner for nearly two decades.
Despite the challenges, History Professor Dr. Kevin Shirley, co-affiliate coordinator of the Georgia competition, said National History Day is here to stay.
“National History Day, as a pedagogical tool, will always have a place. It can and does change lives,” he said.
Those interested in being a volunteer judge can register on the NHD website.
Category: Academics, Community, College
Keywords: History, Education
