Introduction by Christopher Todd
Participant data by Cyndee McManaman, CT History Day Regional Coordinator
The University of Connecticut and the Office of Early College Programs are proud to support Connecticut History Day (CHD), an enriching program that empowers students to explore the past through rigorous research, thoughtful analysis, and creative expression. This year’s theme, “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History,” invited students to examine the dynamic forces that have shaped societies across time and place. By investigating moments of transformative change, the responses they inspired, and the reforms that followed, students gain a deeper understanding of how history informs the present. Through this partnership, UConn and Connecticut History Day foster the curiosity, critical thinking, and civic engagement that prepare the next generation of informed leaders to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
On Saturday, March 7th, UConn Storrs hosted 30 schools comprised of 29 educators and 514 students for the Mansfield Regional Connecticut History Day Contest. In total, 4,805 students participated in Connecticut History Day contests this year, with the State 
Contest held at Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) on Saturday, May 2nd.
56 Connecticut students traveled to the University of Maryland June 14–18, 2026, for the National History Day Contest, joining more than 2900 students from around the world. Fifteen Connecticut entries received awards or recognition at the National Contest; eight of these entries hailed from the Mansfield Region.
Cyndee McManaman, Mansfield Regional Coordinator: “I was happy to have new schools participate in History Day this year. The standards and inquiry-based skills students acquire and hone while completing a History Day project speaks to the rigor embedded in the program. Watching students grow and improve throughout the contest season is powerful. Students aren’t just learning about the history of their chosen topic, but of our country’s and world’s history through the lens of the annual theme.”
Teacher quotes
History Day is a fantastic program that challenges students to develop a long-term project using a wide range of resources. As such, it requires persistence and time management, analytical skills when reading high-level text and historical documents and then adapting those resources into a high-quality project.
We encourage students to participate in History Day to engage in rigorous research and presentation of information. Students learn valuable skills all along the journey – academic research related, social, and personal.
Student quotes
I loved seeing other projects and gaining a better insight about other parts of history.
I truly enjoyed doing research and creating a nuanced understanding of history.