Essay Contest

Dor-Wood Essay Contest

The Essay Contest is sponsored by Optimist International to give young people the opportunity to write about their own opinions regarding the world in which they live. The approach can encompass a young person’s personal experience, the experience of their country or a more historical perspective. In additional to developing skills for written expression, participants also have the opportunity to win a college scholarship!

Topic for the 2023-2024 school year is: "Optimism: How it Connects Us”

Who: Youth under the age of 19 as of October 1, 2024 (and is not enrolled as a degree seeking student of a post-secondary institution) in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean. There is no minimum age.

How To Enter: Interested students may contact their local Optimist Club. They need to submit an essay on the pre-assigned topic. Kettering students may contact Rich Bowden, Dor-Wood Optimist Club Essay Contest Chairman

Email: prassboy2315@gmail.com Phone: 937-974-6953

When:
All Club-level contests are held by early February. Student submissions will not be accepted after the Club-level contests have closed. Please contact your District Chair for more information.

Club winners advance to the District contest to compete for a $2,500 college scholarship. The District-level scholarships are funded by the Optimist International Foundations.

2024 Essay Contest Winners

From left: Julianna Nielson, VBMS, 3rd Place Tie ; Teagan Parker, St.Charles, 2nd Place;
Margaret Cope, St. Albert, 3rd Place Tie; Winner Audrey Molnar, Ascension; Essay Chair Mike Higgins

2023 Essay Contest Winners

from left, 2nd Runner-up Abigail Stidham (VBMS); 1st Place Joan Sarfino (KMS);
1st Runner-up Zoey Kavanaugh (St. Ch.) / not pictured: 2nd Runner-up Dalan Borrer (VBMS)