Increasing the Civic Literacy and Engagement of Kentucky's Citizens

For the past 20 years, the Office of the Secretary of State has held a statewide slogan and essay contest on an elections related topic for Kentucky high school students.  These contests are part of the Secretary's efforts to increase the civic awareness of Kentucky's youth.

2010-2011 Slogan Winners

1st Place- Clare Kresse, J. Graham Brown School
"Your vote. Your choice. Kentucky's future."

2nd Place- Bailey Tungate, Lebanon Middle
"They fought for the right; the rest is up to you."

3rd Place- James Jacobs, Saint Charles Middle
"Vote now or forever hold your peace."

2010-2011 Essay Winners

9th Grade- Natalie Hope Farrar, LaRue County High School

10th Grade- Norb Wessels, Covington Catholic High School

11th Grade- Travis Wilson, Grace Christian Homeschool

12th Grade- Emily Hicks, Homeschool

A special thanks to the Scripps Howard First Amendment Center at the University of Kentucky and KEA Retired for sponsoring the contest!  The Office of the Secretary of State invites any organization or individual that is interested in promoting civic education to make a tax deductible contribution to the annual Slogan and Essay Contest.  Please contact the Office of the Secretary of State if you are interested in sponsoring the contest.

The Office of the Secretary of State participates in the National Student/Parent Mock Election and partners with others to add outstanding curricula to our educational programming that already provides Kentucky students the opportunity to cast their ballots shortly before Election Day.  Click here for the 2012 results.

The Commonwealth Ambassador Award is presented to youth who demonstrate exceptional character and citizenship through their contribution to the community, state, or nation.

Click here for more information on the Office's initiative designed to increase voter participation by honoring the service of America’s military men and women.