“This I believe…”
In the early days of American radio, the legendary journalist Edward R. Murrow created the series, “This I believe.” In it, ordinary Americans went on the nation’s airwaves to state their beliefs about many aspects of life in this nation. Recently, independent producers and NPR revived the idea of the series.

As part of a day-long diversity colloquy on April 11, 2011 winning essays from campus students will be read aloud. The winning essayist will receive a $500 scholarship. There will be two $250 scholar-ship awards and two $100 text book purchase awards of merit.

Like to write? Have something to say? Then we invite your entry! Here’s what to do:

Tell us a story—and don’t forget the emotion. It can be funny or sad, it can show your vulnerability or someone else’s. But the theme must deal with diversity, the differences in people: differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion or other things.

When you’ve written your essay, read it aloud and time it—it must be at least two minutes long, but not longer than two and one-half minutes.
Be sure to state what you believe. Your essay should begin with the words: “This I believe…” and go on from there.
Keep in mind that this is a very personal essay, about your beliefs—whatever they might be. Write in the first person and write conversationally, as if you were speaking to a friend.

Questions? Contact Carol Corneilse: [log in to unmask] Call 405-1563.
Submit completed essays to the Office of the Associate Provost for Equity and Diversity at [log in to unmask]

Deadline: March 18, 2011. Winners will be notified in late March.

This contest is sponsored by the Office of the Associate Provost for Equity and Diversity