Four sophomores from Seneca Valley Intermediate High School were recently recognized for their award-winning pieces at the 2026 Waldman Arts & Writing Competition, hosted by the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh.

This year’s theme was centered on the preservation of humanity during the Holocaust, inspired by the words of local survivor Albert Farhy, “Life is not just about living but living with people.” This theme provided students with the opportunity to commemorate, honor, and connect with survivors who settled in our own community, while recognizing the importance of human connection and altruism during the Holocaust. Students showed their learning through poetry, writing an essay or producing 2-D or 3-D art. The top projects in each category were chosen as entries to represent Seneca Valley at the Waldman Arts & Writing Competition.

Einin Wolf-Johnston won the high school 3-D art category for her beautiful quilt that shared the story of a Pittsburgh Holocaust survivor. Miss Wolf-Johnston was also named the grand prize winner of the overall competition. She received an award and a monetary prize.

Additionally, Noah Eckels, Yousef Alibrahim and Noah Kimmel were named school winners. Mr. Eckels won for his essay, Mr. Alibrahim won for his poem and Mr. Kimmel won for his painting. 

The Waldman Arts & Writing awards ceremony took place on May 12, at Chatham University. This annual event allows students in grades 6-12 to compete for financial scholarships and winners are honored with prizes and certificates.