Anna Kippenberger, a sixth grade student at Old Hammondtown School, took the first place prize in a poster contest sponsored by the Mattapoisett Lions Club.

Her artwork will now be in competition with other posters throughout the district.

Kippenberger’s poster was among more than 400,000 entries submitted worldwide in the 28th annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. The purpose of the contest is to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere.

The sixth grader’s poster was selected for its originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme, “share peace”.

The judging was held on Nov. 4 at Old Hammondtown School.

Mattapoisett Lions Club President Rob Haley said he was impressed by the expression and creativity of the students at Old Hammondtown School.

“It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas about what peace means to them. I’m so proud that we were able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions,” he said.

Kippenberger’s artwork will have to pass several more steps to make it to the international round of the competition. One grand prize winner and 23 merit winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award of $5,000, plus a trip for the winner and two family members to an award ceremony.

The 23 merit award winners will each receive a certificate and a cash award of $500.

“Our club is cheering for Anna as her poster advances in the competition, and we hope that her vision will ultimately be shared with others around the world,” Haley said.

Kippenberger and the other peace poster participants were honored for their participation at OHS’s morning assembly on Nov. 12.

Many of the peace posters are now on display at the Mattapoisett Post Office. View international grand prize and merit award winners at www.lionsclubs.org.

The Mattapoisett Lions are part of Lions Clubs International, a global service organization with 1.36 million members. In addition to its efforts towards conquering blindness, the local Lions have a number of projects that benefit the community, including building and repairs of the shade sheds at Town Beach and Ned’s Point, wheelchair ramps for those in need, electronic recycling events, canned goods and toy drive at the Holiday in the Park and organizing Harbor Days in July.

To find out more about the Mattapoisett Lions Club visit, www.mattapoisettlionsclub.org or find the group on Facebook.