2008-2009 Awards Program

Find out about what the top prize winners of the 2008-2009 Being an American Essay Contest got to do while they were in Washington, D.C. for their all-expense paid Awards Program and Gala Dinner.

Our 2008-2009 First Place Winners with Victoria Hughes,
President of the Bill of Rights Institute

On Sunday, students arrived at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C. The evening reception was the first chance for students, teachers, and parents to meet each other, as well as Bill of Rights Institute staff.

Monday, March 30th

Monday morning started off with a bang! Students were able to enjoy their breakfast at the Renaissance Hotel while listening to an exceptional presentation by Pro Football Hall of Fame, Darrell Green. Amongst the important values he spoke about were courage, initiative and community, as he recounted his personal and professional journey. Students were also given the opportunity to ask questions.

The first stop of the day on the students’ tour of Washington, D.C. was the National Archives. During the tour students were able to see the Charters of Freedom in their permanent home. The Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights were on display for students to get a firsthand look. From there the tour guide led students to the Public Vault, where they viewed a number of interactive exhibits highlighting eminent moments from history.

The next stop was the Smithsonian Museum of American History. At this site, students were given the opportunity to explore exhibits like the Star Spangled Banner.

Next on the agenda was the Curator’s tour of the U.S. Supreme Court. With the guidance of a knowledgeable and engaging tour guide, students were educated on everything from the architecture of the court to the individual stories of U.S. Supreme Court Justices.

After some free time and a Pizza dinner with a movie, the last stop of the day was Union Station to board the Nighttime Monument tour. On this tour students and their parents were able to visit some of Washington, D.C.’s legendary memorials. Some of the sites included the Jefferson, Lincoln, Vietnam, Korean War, and WWII memorials.

Tuesday, March 31st

Following breakfast, Tuesday morning began with an invigorating presentation from guest speaker Judge Andrew Napolitano. While captivating the audience, he challenged students to think critically and responsibly about our system of government.

Following Judge Napolitano’s presentation, students headed to the U.S. Capitol Visitor’s Center, recently opened in December of 2008. Upon their arrival, they had the opportunity to meet and speak with the Congressional Representative from their district at the Congressional Reception.

The next stop for students was the Gallery viewing in the U.S. Capitol. Students were able to choose either the U.S. Senate gallery or the U.S. House gallery to view members of Congress in the voting process.

Later that evening, students were given the honor to meet and individually speak with the Honorable Justice Clarence Thomas.

Tuesday evening was concluded with the Awards Gala. Students were enthralled by the great words of the Honorable Clarence Thomas, Dr. John Templeton, and the night’s Emcee, Juan Williams of National Public Radio. First place winner’s from each region were announced and presented with their trophy on stage.