Learn More About the DAR Good Citizens Committee

For nearly nine decades, the Daughters of the American Revolution has recognized outstanding students who demonstrate the qualities of a good citizen. The DAR Good Citizens Committee has developed into one of the most recognized and most rewarding presentations for local chapters.

Beginning in 1934, a committee called “DAR Good Citizenship Pilgrimage” was formed to recognize Good Citizen Girls. State Winners were given a trip to Washington, D.C., where they received recognition at Continental Congress and toured the nation’s Capital. By 1948, the pilgrimage had been discontinued, and a cash award was sent in its place. In 1952, a new name, DAR Good Citizens Committee, was adopted. But the winners, all female, continued to be known popularly as Good Citizen Girls. As the prestige of the little round lapel pin increased, the unfairness of awarding it only to female good citizens became apparent. Beginning in 1975, boys were allowed to participate. For eighty years, one winner was chosen as the national finalist. But beginning in 2014, the DAR Good Citizens Committee began recognizing both a male and a female national winner due to the generous financial support of California Daughter Patricia Holvick.   

Following selection, the student chooses whether or not to enter the DAR Good Citizens scholarship contest. The contest consists of two parts: Part I includes letters of reference, school activities, transcripts, descriptions of service and future plans. Part II is an essay based on a focus question related to our American Heritage as expressed in history.

Each local chapter winner is then judged by the selection procedure of that state. Both a male and a female state winner are chosen and each receives at least $250. The state winners are then judged in the eight divisions and these winners receive a $500 cash award. Two national winners will be invited to Washington, D.C. to attend Continental Congress and will be awarded $5,000 scholarships, inscribed pewter bowls and certificates. At each level, the judges must be independent, non-DAR individuals.

Due to virtual school instruction and restricted school access, chapter chairs have had an especially challenging year to conduct the work of the DAR Good Citizens. Many state chairs reported the good news, however, that new schools have chosen to be first-time participants during this demanding academic year.  

Though the awards, procedures and challenges have changed over these eight decades, the recognition of thousands of top student leaders across the nation continues. As our country and DAR prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country’s founding, let us all continue to recognize high school seniors who represent the very best of our nation’s good citizens.