Episode Details

A rising star in history education, Natalie Wadkins, just earned second place at the National History Day state competition with her powerful documentary on disability rights activist Kitty Cone — and now she’s headed to Maryland for a shot at the national title. But behind her success looms a troubling reality: the very program that helped shape her is teetering on collapse. With Indiana’s historical society cutting ties due to budget cuts and federal funding slashed across museums and libraries, the competition may vanish next year — leaving thousands of students without a vital platform to explore history through research, creativity, and critical thinking. Wadkins, who credits the contest with transforming her academic journey, voiced deep sorrow over its potential end, highlighting how programs like this don’t just teach history — they build confidence, resilience, and the courage to ask for help when you need it.

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