Oyster River High School (ORHS) rising junior Vivian Best won the Senior Affiliate Award at the National History Day National Competition in College Park, Maryland.
This distinction is awarded to the top high school project from each state, and Vivian was celebrated during a ceremony held at the University of Maryland XFINITY Center on June 12, 2025.
Vivian’s paper, titled "A Conservation Wake-up Call: How Maine's Lobster Bust Shaped Perspectives on Environmental Rights and Responsibilities", details the near collapse of the Maine lobster industry in the 1920s.
It also explores the challenges faced by a generation of lobstermen who fought to ensure the prosperity and longevity of Maine's original maritime industry and greatest economic asset.
When stepping away from traditional mindsets, the lobstermen realized their environmental responsibilities and reformed their own rights to save the industry. Their fight led to the creation of stricter gauge and V-notch laws, which are the foundation of modern industrial conservation in New England.
"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in National History Day on a national level,” said Vivian. “Winning this award truly solidifies my belief that the greatest academic asset is a strong work ethic. I also extend my thanks to the wonderful people at Plymouth State University, especially Nicole Tardiff and Professor Kelsie Eckert, for their meaningful support throughout the trip to D.C. and at the awards ceremony in Maryland."
Vivian Best, pictured second from the left, is surrounded by New Hampshire award winners and educators.