Gerstell Students win top prizes for Champions of Courage Essay Contest

Two Gerstell Academy Upper School students were honored as the top finalists in the 39^th Annual "Champions of Courage" Black History Month Essay Program. The announcement was made during the special “Saluting Maryland’s Champions of Courage” which aired on FOX45, CW Baltimore and myTV Baltimore on February 28^th.

The students were awarded monetary prizes and Gerstell was also presented with a cash award.

The "Champions of Courage" Black History Month Essay Competition challenged students grades 6 through 12 to write a brief essay saluting their personal hero who best exemplified “The Dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “More than 1,500 students submitted essays.

First place honors went to 10^th Grade student Ayomide Fatile. Ayomide will receive a $200 cash award and Gerstell will receive a $200 award. Her essay discussed the impact of Shirley Chisholm, the first black women to be elected to the United States Congress. Please see excerpt below:

“Shirley Chisholm was a true Champion of Courage because she confronted the political and social barriers of her time with unwavering determination. Her commitment to justice reflects the legacy of Martin Luther Kings, Jr., who demanded that America live up to its ideals rather than hide behind uncomfortable traditions.”

The second-place award was presented to 12^th Grade student Craig Meseke. Craig will receive a $150 prize and Gerstell Academy will receive $150 in his honor. Craig wrote about his father in an eloquent and heartfelt way. See excerpt below:

“For 27 years, my dad served as a police officer in our neighborhood, protecting families and building trust with everyone he met. He faced danger with courage and treated people with kindness, even in tough situations. I’ve seen him comfort victims, mentor kids, and work long hours without complaint. His dedication taught me that real strength comes from service, not power. My dad’s example inspires me to be brave, selfless and to always stand up for what’s right.”

The Champions of Courage Award aligns well with the Gerstell Academy Leadership Model. Congratulations to Ayo and Craig -excellent student leaders who went “above and beyond” to share their talents with the greater community.