Thursday, February 24, 2011

African American History Contest in 19th Year

Contributions of African American pioneers in medicine and healthcare is the focus of the 2011 African American History Essay Contest. Students from the Pittsburgh Area from the ages of 6 to 18 are invited to submit an essay for a chance to win $500.

Russell Bynum, spokesman for the contest, says students do not need to be African Americans to enter their essay. He says that along with essays, students can submit poetry, videos, music and artwork. "We had one young lady. She won first prize in her category, but she also did a song. And we actually created some CD's and that kind of thing for her."

Bynum says once essays are submitted they are divided into age groups and then go to a panel of judges provided by the contest's sponsors. He says the judges and participation levels changes every year with the subject of the essay.

Essays are due by March 31st to the question "What African American healthcare worker, or supporter, do you admire, and why? How has that person impacted society?" Entry forms can be found online.

No comments: