Dr. Michael N. Compton Public Affairs Essay Contest

A $2,000 cash prize* is awarded each fall to the best short essay that addresses the year's public affairs theme.

Congratulations to this year's 2022 winners!

Recorded 2022 Presentation

First place

The author of the winning essay, receives a cash prize of $500 plus an additional $500 donated in their name to the charity or non-profit organization of their choice.

Winning author: Sophia Spangler, senior, Philosophy

Nonprofit match: NAMI of Southwest Missouri

2022 Public Affairs Essay Contest nonprofit match

Second place

Rachel Lacey, senior, Psychology

Jack Phillips, senior, Socio-Political Communications

Third place

Alanna Bryson, sophomore, History Education

Madeline Caughron, senior, International Business

Abigail Horn, junior, Communication Sciences Disorders

Questions & Disclaimer

Missouri State's Office of Public Affairs Support helps to provide communication and web support for the contest. Please direct questions to 417-836-8832 or PublicAffairs@MissouriState.edu

All aspects of this essay contest, including prize distribution, is at the discretion of IDEAL and the essay review committee.

Entry and Prize Information