For Immediate Release: June 27, 2011
Contact: Allison Sturma, 202-429-4725

(Washington) -The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) is pleased to announce the winners of the 24th Annual National Peace Essay Contest. Kathryn Botto of Texas, Lily Zhang of Pennsylvania, and Meredith Pochily of New York have earned $10,000, $5,000 and $2,500 scholarships as the national first, second, and third place finishers, respectively.

Each year, the National Peace Essay Contest challenges American high school students living in the U.S. and abroad to research and submit an analytical essay on a theme related to the Institute's work on conflict management. This year’s topic was “Governance, Corruption and Conflict.” Winners are chosen from each state or category and receive $1,000 in scholarship money. They are also invited to a week-long educational program in Washington D.C. to further explore the topic through simulations, briefings with foreign policy leaders, and meeting with Members of Congress.

Richard H. Solomon, president of USIP, said, “All this year's winners are to be congratulated. In examining a complex, real world challenge, these students demonstrated a strong awareness and understanding of international issues."

Learn more about the National Peace Essay Contest.

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The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) provides the analysis, training and tools to help to prevent, manage and end violent international conflicts, promote stability and professionalize the field of peacebuilding. Learn more at www.usip.org.