OPTIMIST ESSAY CONTEST

Bismarck Optimist Club proudly sponsors an annual Optimist International Essay Contest at our local club level in the spring of each year. Each year’s topic is pre-determined by Optimist International and information regarding the oratorical contest is sent to all local public and private high schools.

The winning essay writer at our local club level is awarded $500. Club winners advance to the District contest to compete for a $2,500 college scholarship. The District-level scholarships are funded by the Optimist International Foundations.

Bismarck Optimist Club’s 2024 essay contest winner was Kerstin Hilzendeger, a senior at St. Mary’s Central High School. Kerstin's essay was titled, “Optimism: How it Connects Us.” Kerstin plans to study graphic design at Bismarck State College in the fall of 2024. 

Congratulations Kerstin.