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In the spirit of reflection and creative expression, ’s Cultural Life Committee has announced its annual for 2026.

Open to middle and high school students across the Ohio Valley area, the competition offers young people a chance to engage deeply with the enduring messages of Dr. King and consider how his words resonate in their lives today.

Participants are invited to select a quote from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C., and respond with either a poem or short essay, drawing connections between the chosen quote and their own communities or personal experiences. The contest serves as a platform for students to explore the power of King’s legacy through their own lens.

For Dr. Thomas Flynn, emeritus professor of English at 51���� Eastern and a returning contest judge, the event continues to inspire.

“My participation as a judge in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Writing Contest has been inspiring. Over the years, I have been impressed with the writing skills the students demonstrate. Perhaps more importantly than developing this valuable resource, the contest encourages students to engage with the thoughts and visions of one of our greatest leaders. The students have reached into their own lives to make connections between his dreams and their situation. They have seen that despite the progress we have made in making our society more just and equitable, there is more that we and they must do. This contest helps to embolden this generation to carry on Dr. King's noble work,” Flynn said.

Students can submit their entries by Dec. 5, 2025, with prizes in the form of Amazon gift cards ranging from $50 to $100. Judges will assess the works based on originality, creativity and relevance to the theme.

Beyond the gift card incentives, Jennifer Kellner-Muscar, 51���� Eastern’s director of student services, hopes the contest inspires students to reflect on King’s vision for justice and equality.

“While the contest offers a creative outlet, we hope students come away with something deeper, a greater appreciation for Dr. King’s legacy and how his message can inspire change in their own lives,” she said.

The winning entries will be honored at the annual MLK Writing Contest Celebration on Jan. 29, 2026. There, they’ll receive certificates of achievement, marking their creative engagement with King’s timeless ideals.

For more details on how students can participate, visit .