Rochelle student’s illustration ‘Sassy’ wins congressional art contest

Leslie Rodriguez-Nambo’s colored pencil illustration titled “Sassy” is heading for display at the U.S. Capitol.

The Rochelle High School student was the winner of U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger’s congressional art contest.

Kinzinger received more than 20 entries from students in the 16th District for this year’s competition, according to a news release from his office. Entrants had the option to submit their artwork digitally or in person at the Ottawa district office.

Additional honorable mention winners include Marlen Hueramo of Rochelle High School for a colored pencil work titled “Haciendo Tamales,” Ottawa High School student Jazzmyn DeFord for her charcoal drawing “Stranger,” and Aaliyah Kahuhu of DeKalb High School for a photograph titled “Setting Free.” Hueramo’s piece will be displayed at Kinzinger’s Ottawa district office, DeFord’s charcoal drawing at his Watseka office and Kahuhu’s photograph will be displayed at the Rockford office.

“On behalf of the 16th District, I’m proud to congratulate Leslie and our three honorable mentions—we are lucky to have their impressive artwork adorn our walls,” Kinzinger said in a news release. “A special thank you to all the teachers (and parents) who have adapted during these challenging times of the coronavirus pandemic, and continued to encourage their students to participate in this year’s competition. We have such talent in our communities, and I’m grateful to each student who shared their artistic gift with us.”