U.S. Senator Dave McCormick announced on May 20 the launch of a Pennsylvania Youth Essay Contest to mark America’s 250th anniversary, inviting high school students from across the state to reflect on Pennsylvania’s role in the nation’s history.
The contest aims to engage young Pennsylvanians in considering their state’s impact on the American story and encourage them to share their perspectives. Winning essays will be entered into the Congressional Record, and winners will have an opportunity to meet Senator McCormick in Washington, D.C. Top runners-up will receive a signed letter of recognition from the senator.
“This year, America turns 250 years old — and no state has shaped that story more than Pennsylvania,” said Senator McCormick. “Only one state can claim the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed, where the most important battle of the Civil War was won, and where the Arsenal of Democracy was forged. As we celebrate this milestone, I want to hear from the next generation of Pennsylvanians — about the people who built this country, and about what they themselves intend to build next. I can’t wait to read what they write.”
The contest is open to Pennsylvania high school students entering grades nine through twelve for the 2026–27 school year. Participants are divided into two divisions based on grade level: Division I includes grades nine and ten; Division II includes grades eleven and twelve. Essays should be between 600 and 800 words long.
Students may choose between two prompts: writing about a Pennsylvanian whose story every American should know or discussing a challenge that must be solved by America’s next generation as it approaches its tricentennial. Essays must be submitted by email by July 4, with winners notified later that month.
McCormick has served as a captain in the 82nd Airborne Division during deployment in the First Gulf War; he also grew up in Bloomsburg as the son of educators; earned advanced degrees including a doctorate from Princeton University; held executive roles at FreeMarkets and Bridgewater Associates; served as under secretary of Treasury and deputy national security advisor; and focuses his work on energy innovation, border security, cost reduction measures, national defense priorities, crime prevention strategies, competition with global rivals, government reform efforts and community enhancement initiatives according to his official website.
The initiative highlights ongoing efforts by public officials to involve youth voices in civic life while celebrating significant milestones in American history.
