After more than two hours of intense competition, matching brainpower with perseverance and the occasional heartbreak, the 2023 regional Scripps Spelling Bee, hosted and sponsored by the Saint Louis University School of Education, came down to one final contestant, with one final word: “drumlin.”

Sonia Kulkarni stepped up to the microphone and delivered each letter flawlessly. 

The crowd of family, friends and the SLU community celebrated as Kulkarni was crowned the St. Louis regional Scripps Spelling Bee victor. Trophy in hand, Kulkarni smiled for photos and selfies with her friends and family, beaming with pride through her accomplishment. 

Next up, a fully- funded trip by SLU to Washington D.C. for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. 

This year marked the first time the SLU School of Education hosted a regional Scripps Spelling Bee, beginning a partnership between the two that continues the university’s mission of inspiring and educating the next generation of leaders. Inside the Center for Global Citizenship, 27 future leaders showcased their education and showed they aim to be the best they can be inside and outside the classroom. 

By inspiring the exploration of words, the Scripps National Spelling Bee illuminates pathways to lifelong curiosity, celebrates academic achievement, and enriches communities. Each year, the Bee reaches millions of students across the country and around the world with the classroom materials it provides schools enrolled in the yearlong program.

Participation in regional bees also provides an opportunity for students to gain experience in public speaking and inspires a love of learning and connection with their peers.

Now, Kulkarni begins preparation to become the next National Spelling Bee champion to come from St. Louis. Just two months away, Kulkarni will spend much more time on her spelling app to keep her fresh for the national competition.

But that can wait until tomorrow. Today is about celebrating her win with a trophy and smiles.