MLK Jr. Essay Contests for Students from SIUE

On January 17, 2018, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will observe the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at 11:30 a.m., in the Morris University Center, Meridian Ballroom.

One important activity during the celebration is a contest honoring high school students who express their version of Dr. King, Jr.’s legacy and dream through an essay, poem, or artwork.  This year’s theme is“Intelligence Plus Character – That is the True Meaning of Education”. This theme will reflect on Dr. King’s 1947 letter titled “The Purpose of Education” and serves as a call for action in defense of the great benefit education has on everyone.  Each student interested in the contest is asked to submit an essay, poem, or artwork developed and based upon this year’s theme.

All students currently enrolled at your high school are eligible to enter.  The contest winners will be presented a plaque and an honorarium.  Their parents and teacher will be invited to the event.  Further, a press release highlighting the student’s accomplishment will be forwarded to their hometown newspaper.  For a copy of Dr. King’s 1947 letter, click here.  For a copy of the Guidelines and Entry Form, please click here.   You may make additional copies as needed.

I hope you will be able to involve your students in this meaningful contest.  If you wish to discuss the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, the Essay, Poetry, and Visual Arts Contest, or need additional information, please contact Sarah Laux, Assistant Director for Community Engagement, at (618) 650-3472 or slaux@siue.edu.

Thank you for your support of this contest.

Sincerely,

Sarah Laux

Assistant Director, Community Engagement

Chair, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville