San Jacinto Student’s Artwork Headed to Congress After Winning Top Prize

A Coachella Valley student is making national headlines through her art.

San Jacinto High School sophomore Cassandra De La Rosa has been named the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition, an annual contest that showcases student creativity and talent across the country. Her piece, titled Are You Lost in Motion?, was selected out of more than 60 submissions from across the district.

Created with colored pencil and charcoal pastel, the artwork took De La Rosa one month to complete. “For my piece, I didn’t want it to just look nice,” she said. “I wanted it to make you feel something, like you’re in it—like you’re in the experience.”

De La Rosa received a certificate of recognition during an award ceremony Tuesday night, surrounded by proud family members. Along with the honor, she will also receive two round-trip tickets to Washington, D.C., where she’ll get to see her work displayed in the halls of the U.S. Capitol for the next year.

This marks the 13th year that Representative Raul Ruiz has hosted the competition for California’s 25th District. Ruiz praised De La Rosa’s work and emphasized the importance of providing young artists with platforms to express themselves and connect with mentors.

“We are so appreciative,” Ruiz said. “This is a safe and inspiring space for students, and I’m incredibly proud of all who participated.”

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