Support Cuba’s whiz kid Jakobe Swift on March 28
From event organizers,
A community fundraiser will be held on March 28 from 7–10 p.m. at the Palmer Opera House in Cuba, New York to support Cuba-Rushford eighth grader Jakobe Swift as he prepares to compete in the International Academic Competitions History Bee National Championship this May in Orlando, Florida.
The evening will feature live music, with Zoar headlining the event and Dave Chamberlain opening the show. Proceeds from the fundraiser will help cover travel and competition expenses for the talented young scholar.
The International Academic Competitions (IAC) is an organization dedicated to giving students around the world opportunities to compete in engaging academic tournaments focused on history, geography, science, and other disciplines. The organization was founded in 2010 by David Madden, a 19-day champion on the quiz show Jeopardy!. What began as a single tournament for students in the New York metropolitan area has grown into an international program reaching students in more than 50 countries each school year.
Swift has qualified for the national championships for the fourth consecutive year. On December 14, he competed in an online regional tournament and finished in first place, earning his latest qualification.
Last summer, Swift also competed in the International History Olympiad, held July 20–26, 2025, in Paris, France. Among 126 middle school competitors, he finished 40th overall and placed 26th on the Battery Exam, a comprehensive placement test. His History Bowl team also advanced to the playoffs and came close to reaching the finals.
In 2023, Swift represented his region at the International History Olympiad in Rome, Italy.
Family members say it has been inspiring to watch his growth and dedication over the past four years.
“We are truly grateful for all the community support we have received,” the family shared. “Thank you to everyone who has been a part of our journey.” — Heather Mouser & Jerome Swift
