Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is often remembered and celebrated for his critical work. To honor his legacy, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP asked sixth grade students in Grand Rapids to enter an essay contest to discuss the lasting impacts of his work.
In its 14th year, the essay contest – which was open to all sixth graders in the Grand Rapids Public School district – asked students to study the work of Dr. King and develop an essay about one of three topics. Options included exploring why it’s important for individuals to have equal rights, explaining how Dr. King’s dream of ending racism and providing equal rights to all can be kept alive today, or acknowledging a quote from Dr. King and explaining how it makes a positive difference.
In response, the firm received 336 essay submissions from 15 different schools. Essays were judged by more than 50 Warner attorneys and staff. The essays were evaluated for ideas, organization, style and conventions.
This year’s winners are:
- Roz McBrier, Ridgemoor Park Montessori, grand prize
- Ellouise Lambertson, John Ball Zoo School, first runner-up
- Henry Robinette, North Park Montessori, second runner-up
Additionally, 22 students from 10 different schools received honorable mentions. They attend Center for Economicology, Grand Rapids Montessori, Grand Rapids Public Museum School, Harrison Park School, John Ball Zoo School, North Park Montessori, Ridgemoor Park Montessori, Riverside Middle School, University Prep Academy and Westwood Middle School.
All winning and honorable mention students and their parents are invited to attend the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Program held Monday, Jan. 21 at 6 p.m. at Fountain Street Church. McBrier will read her essay, and all others will be invited to stand for recognition.
Additionally, the grand prize winner and, if time permits, the two runners-up will be given an opportunity to read their essays at the Monday, Feb. 4 GRPS Board of Education meeting, which will be held at 6:30 p.m. Warner Diversity Partner Rodney Martin will be in attendance at both programs to introduce the winners.
Each winning and honorable mention student will receive a gift card to Schuler Books & Music and all others will receive a personalized certificate of completion.
The winning essays will be published on the Warner diversity website, http://diversity.wnj.com.
About Warner
By providing discerning and proactive legal advice, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP builds a better partnership with our clients. One of Michigan’s largest law firms, we’re focused on providing the best legal solutions and exceptional client service to organizations throughout the world. Connect with us on wnj.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook.
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