Middle and high school students in South Carolina are invited to participate in Dominion Energy and the South Carolina Department of Education's (SCDE) 4th Annual SC History Essay Contest. The winner will receive an Apple MacBook Air and her $1,000 gift to her school or homeschool association.
This program recognizes notable African Americans in the state who have made notable contributions to SCDE's long-standing South Carolina African American History Calendar.
This year's essays are inspired by historic South Carolinian Mary McLeod Bethune, an educator and civil rights activist from Maysville. His legacy of educational entrepreneurship and literacy has had a lasting impact on individuals across the Palmetto State. “When I learned to read, the whole world opened up to me,” Bethune once said.
Students are asked to write about an African American from South Carolina who had a positive impact on their education.
“The South Carolina Department of Education is excited to continue our partnership with Dominion Energy in this effort,” said State Superintendent Ellen Weaver. “Mary McLeod Bethune is one of many great South Carolinians who changed our country for the better. We are committed to inspiring, challenging, and mentoring young writers. I can’t wait to read the stories of those who are keeping her legacy alive.”
The winning student will have the opportunity to participate in the unveiling of the 2025 African American History Calendar. Their essays will also be featured on his website for Dominion Energy and his SCDE.
“Each year, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Education, we reflect the state's most recognizable voices from past generations while giving voice to a new generation of leaders,” said Keller Kissam, president of Dominion Energy South Carolina. I am giving,” he said. “Educational programs like this provide a precious reminder of the heroic determination of our historic icons as we look forward to a bright future for our students and our great nation.”
Dominion Energy and teachers will serve as judges to select winning entries from each of South Carolina's five regions.
Deadline for entries is March 29th. Judging will take place from April 1st to April 19th. The winner will be notified in late April.
Applicants must be middle or high school students at a public or private high school in South Carolina. Homeschoolers who have paid dues and are actively enrolled in the Homeschoolers Association are also eligible. The $1,000 school award can be applied for through the Home School Association. Interested parties can learn more and enter the essay contest online.