Jackson area student is semifinalist in state sticker contest

State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz is encouraging residents to take part in Michigan’s official 2026 “I Voted” sticker design contest and help select the stickers that voters across the state will be able to receive after casting their ballot during the November election.

More than 2,000 designs were submitted from across Michigan, with members of the Michigan Collegiate Student Advisory Task Force selecting 30 semifinalists in each contest category. Among the high school semifinalists is Maddison O. of Jackson.

Maddison’s design showcases Michigan’s natural beauty through a river landscape featuring several state symbols, including a brook trout, white-tailed deer, dwarf lake iris, robin, and apple blossoms.

“It’s exciting to see a student from the Jackson area recognized among the contest semifinalists,” Schmaltz said. “I want to congratulate Maddison on this achievement and thank her for sharing her creativity and Michigan pride through this competition. It takes courage to put your work forward, and I hope she continues pursuing her talents.”

Residents can vote online through June 30 by visiting www.michigan.gov/ivotedsticker. Voters may select their three favorite designs in each category: elementary/middle school (grades K-8), high school (grades 9-12), and general entry (open to Michigan residents of all ages).

Winning designs will be announced later this summer. The selected stickers will be distributed to local election clerks across Michigan for use during the November 2026 election.

“This contest is a fun way to celebrate both civic engagement and the creativity of Michiganders,” Schmaltz said. “I encourage residents to take a look at the submissions and participate in the voting process.”