Cheerwine names local student finalist in Festival Design Contest

1 hour ago

WWAY News,

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — Cheerwine has announced the 10 student finalists, including one from Pender County, in the 2026 Cheerwine Festival T-Shirt Contest, spotlighting young creatives from across the Carolinas.

Now a signature part of the Festival, the annual competition invites high school students to design original artwork inspired by Cheerwine’s heritage.

This year, more than 100 submissions poured in from dozens of schools, each reflecting a fresh take on the iconic cherry soda. A judging panel including Salisbury Mayor Tamara Sheffield, City of Salisbury Events Coordinator Vivian Koontz, and Joy Ritchie Harper, Vice President of Marketing and fifth-generation founding family member at Cheerwine, selected the top 10 entries.

From now until March 20, the public can click here to vote for their favorite design.

The winner and two runner-ups will be announced in April, with a special recognition ceremony during this year’s Festival.

The finalists are

Selena Luna, Salisbury, NC, Jesse C. Carson High School (12th grade)
Tyler Henson, Currie, NC, Pender Early College High School (9th grade)
Mirna Martinez Escobar, Salisbury, NC, Jesse C. Carson High School (11th grade)
Toby Josiah, Landis, NC, Jesse C. Carson High School (10th grade)
Kendall Stavenger, Kannapolis, NC, Northwest Cabarrus High School (10th grade)
Camila Valencia Guzman, Matthews, NC, Weddington High School (10th grade)
Savannah Dellinger, Stallings, NC, Porter Ridge High School (10th grade)
Amelia Ann Staub, Salisbury, NC, West Rowan High School (10th grade)
Subee Vongsavanh, Myrtle Beach, SC, Carolina Forest High School (12th grade)
Kaelyn Stainback, Tega Cay, SC, Fort Mill High School (11th grade)

“Each year, students continue raising the bar with their creativity,” says Harper. “The talent and imagination represented in these designs capture what makes our region special. We’re thankful for the educators and families who encourage these young artists, and we’re excited for our fans to decide this year’s official artwork.”

The winner will receive a $1,000 gift card, a commemorative plaque presented by Salisbury’s mayor, and additional prizes, while the winning student’s teacher will receive $500 for new art supplies.

The 2026 Cheerwine Festival will take place Saturday, May 16. The free, family-friendly event will feature live music, entertainment, arts and crafts and Cheerwine-inspired food and merchandise.