Victoria Lawson: Writing Talent Earns Honor
In October, Armijo sophomore Victoria Lawson won the Grand Prize from the Constitution Education Project Fund for her submission to the 2017 Constitution Essay Contest.
Lawson earned the contest’s top honor for her moving response to two prompts: “Why the Founders reject democracy as a model for our federal and state governments and, instead, establish the United States as a republic?” and “Explain the differences, and how do we ‘keep our republic’?” Lawson sought to demonstrate her writing aptitude and share her message. “I hoped my essay would communicate why the Founding Fathers instead embraced the United States of America as a republic instead of a democracy,” she said. “I believe the Constitution of the United States is the most important document in the country.”
Lawson was inspired to enter the contest to compete with local writers. Lawson was shocked at the news of her victory. “I was excited and I could not believe I was selected as the Grand Prize Winner,” she said. “My parents initially thought I was joking with them when I informed them I was the Grand Prize Winner. However, once they realized I was the Grand Prize Winner, they were very proud and excited for me.”
At the 6th Annual Awards Presentation Dinner, Lawson and fellow Solano County students were recognized for their contributions. “I was honored to have Principal Smith and my history teacher, Ms. Ramirez, at the awards dinner,” said Lawson, “Additionally, I felt proud to read my essay to the people in attendance.”
At Armijo, Lawson is involved in the Pre-International Baccalaureate program. She has participated in the National Honor Society, Key Club, Around the World Club, Future Medical Professionals, College and Career Club, and Model United Nations. Further, Lawson is an athlete on the Armijo cross-country and the track and field team.
When asked about her plans for the $1,000 prize, Lawson said, “I will use all of the prize money toward my college education. I chose to enter the contest because it was a positive and rewarding experience.” She plans to continue entering essay contests.
Lawson encourages every student at Armijo to participate in the Constitution Essay Contest next year. “The Constitution makes the United States into a nation, not simply a country,” she said.
Link to Victoria Lawson’s Original Essay:
