A search for the next generation of Midwestern voices on US global engagement

Deadline: April 26, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

As America’s 250th anniversary approaches, the Council is holding an essay competition to showcase Midwest students’ expertise. Essays will be graded by a panel of reviewers and winners will receive a $1,000 prize, acknowledgement on the Council website, and travel, accommodations and recognition at the Council's upcoming America at 250 Global Forum on June 18, 2026. 

We are asking high school juniors and seniors to consider the following question: 

As the US marks its 250^th anniversary, how do you see the Midwest advancing America’s global engagement in the next generation?

Your answer might consider the roles of state and/or local governments, private industry, nonprofit organizations, and individuals.

Please be sure to include:

• A clear thesis statement
• At least one real-world example
• Acknowledgment of any sources engaged (citation format flexible)

Essays should be 750-900 words. 

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors residing in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin.

This competition is open to any high school junior or senior residing in one of these states. Any conflicts of interest should be declared so the Council can ensure a fair selection process.

Prizes: Prizes will be awarded for the most compelling essay and most creative essay.
Two first-place winners receive:  

• $1,000  
• In-person award ceremony at our America at 250 Global Forum in Chicago in June 
• Two nights’ hotel stay in Chicago to receive awards in-person  
• If applicable, flights to/from Chicago for the forum 
• Recognition on our website 
• Runner-up essays will be awarded $500 and recognition on our website. 

Important Dates: 

• March 16: Launch contest 
• April 26: Contest closes. 
• April 27-May 14: Submissions review. 
• May 15: Winner(s) announced. 
• June 18: Winner(s) featured at US 250 conference. 

Review Process:
Essay submissions will be reviewed by a panel comprised of Council staff, Council fellows, and Emerging Leaders alumni.

AI Policy:
We look forward to reading your original thoughts and ideas on our prompt. While we recognize that artificial intelligence (AI) can be a useful tool in the writing process, we want to emphasize the importance of sharing an essay with us that reflects your unique views.  Applicants will be asked to attest that their work follows the guidelines below.  

Generative AI tools (including but not limited to ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini) may be used only for the limited purposes described below: 

Acceptable:

• Using tools like Grammarly to review grammar and spelling  
• Generating questions or exercises to aid in the brainstorming process 
  
• Asking AI for feedback on your structure or argument (Feedback must be applied independently by you, not by AI)  
• Having AI generate a list of counterarguments for consideration 
  
• Conducting research on general background information, provided that your essay’s analysis remains entirely your own. Please note: you should verify any facts drawn from AI.   

Unacceptable:

• Submitting any AI-generated text (of any length) as your own writing  
• Providing AI with an idea or outline and asking it to generate the essay  
• Asking AI to rewrite or substantially revise any portion of your essay  
• Using AI to translate or rework previously written work to fit the expectations of this contest 
• Incorporating AI-generated research, ideas, arguments, or analysis into your essay without independent verification or original thought