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Essay Contest Winners

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Gadsden-BHMEssay-Calendar 

Essays

 Trinity Schemenauer, Robert F. Monroe Day School

Joshua Smith, Gadsden County High School

Brianna Hutchins, Robert F. Monroe Day School

GADSDEN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND SCHOOL BOARD ANNOUNCE WINNERS OF INAUGURAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH ESSAY CONTEST

GADSDEN COUNTY, Fla. - -Yesterday, the Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners and the Gadsden County Board of Education announced the winners of the Black History Month student essay contest.

 Students in grades 4-12 were invited to participate in the contest, with three winners receiving monetary prizes provided by former Congressman Al Lawson. Seven students from Gadsden County submitted entries.

Essay Topic: "African Americans and Labor"

The essay contest encouraged students to research and discuss the pivotal role of African American laborers in shaping Gadsden County's history. Students were asked to explore the contributions of Black entrepreneurs, tradespeople, professionals, and other workers. Additionally, students were invited to reflect on the historical evolution of identity through terms such as “Negro,” “Black,” “Colored,” and “Mulatto,” and how these terms relate to African American heritage.

The winners of the essay contest are: 

  • First Place: $500 – Trinity Schemenauer, Robert F. Monroe Day School Schemenauer, an 11th-grade student, wrote an essay titled “African American Labor and Its Impact on Gadsden County.” She discussed the strong influence of the African American community on the development of local culture, politics, and businesses, highlighting the importance of volunteerism, mentoring, and being a positive role model.

     

  • Second Place: $250 – Joshua Smith, Gadsden County High School Smith, a 12th-grade student and dual-enrolled at a local college, submitted “African American History in Gadsden County.” His essay explored the impact of African American labor on the social and economic development of the county.

     

  • Third Place: $100 – Brianna Hutchins, Robert F. Monroe Day School Hutchins, a 12th-grade student, wrote “Skilled Labor in Gadsden County Then and Now.” She shared her experiences as a young African American woman striving to inspire others through art and personal growth. She reflected on her journey as a candidate for Miss Munroe on the homecoming court.

To view the winning essays, visit the Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners website at gadsdencountyfl.gov or call 850-875-8671.