Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest Winners Announced
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest Banquet on Tuesday, Jan. 18, recognized area high school students who participated in the contest that honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The contest was sponsored by the Office of Student Affairs of Fairmont State University and Pierpont Community & Technical College and the Fairmont State GEAR UP Partnership.
The essay topic was “What was Dr. King trying to accomplish and what would be his impression of where we are today?” Cash prizes were awarded for first place ($500); second place ($250); and third place ($100). Maggie Jones, an 11th-grader at Elkins High School, took first place. Treasure Lanham, an 11th-grader from Doddridge County High School, won second place. Michelle Lindsey, a 12th-grader at Liberty High School, received third place.
“I think this is a great opportunity for all students to learn about the great, late Dr. King,” said Michael Belmear, Vice President for Student Affairs. “This contest allows students to go beyond the classroom and create an essay that reflects Dr. King’s beliefs.”
One of the goals of the contest was to encourage students to read some of King’s writings. All students were encouraged to show in their writing that they reflected on one or more of King’s speeches or essays. The essays were judged by staff in the Office of Student Affairs.
Pictured from left to right are FSU President Tom Krepel; Maggie Jones, first place winner; Michelle Lindsey, third place winner; Michael Belmear, Vice President for Student Affairs; Treasure Lanham, second place winner; and Tara Brooks, Director of Multicultural Affairs.
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