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Meet this Year's American History Essay Winners

The American History Essay Contest welcomes essays from students in grades 5 through 8, all centered on a theme that changes annually, often to commemorate the anniversary of an important event. The 2021-2022 American History Essay Contest commemorates the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arlington National Cemetery. This monument was dedicated on Armistice Day in 1921, with a ceremony led by President Harding.

In their essays, students were asked to write from the perspective of a young person whose brother had lost his life in The Great War, and who had traveled to Arlington National Cemetery to be present with their family at the dedication. Students wrote about what this even meant to them and why they believed remembering those who gave their lives for our country is so important. 

This year, over 23,000 students entered the American History Essay Contest, from all 50 states. The Southeast Division was particularly active, with over 8,800 students participating, and the South Central and East Central divisions were also active with over 3,700 and 3,500 students participating, respectively. Chapters, states and divisions gathered the entries and enlisted a variety of distinguished judges to read and rank the essays. Winners from each level are forwarded to the next level. This committee wishes to thank the enthusiastic involvement of so many chapters across the country and in the Units Overseas.

The winners are:

First place

Elizabeth “Mei-Mei” Payne, a 5th grader from Kansas City, Missouri, who was sponsored by the Mission Hill Chapter in Kansas.

Catherine Hogan, a 6th reader from Farmington, CT, sponsored by the Abigail Phelps Chapter in Connecticut.

Lana Chan, a 7th grader from Cottonwood Heights, UT, sponsored by the Uintah Chapter. in Utah.

Alaina Voeller, an 8th grader from Newberg, Oregon, sponsored by the Yamhill Chapter in Oregon.

Second place

Abigail Lilly, a 5th grader from Marshall, North Carolina, sponsored by the Rebecca Sevier Waddel Chapter in North Carolina.

Ainsley Voeller, a 6th grader from Newburg, Oregon, sponsored by the Yamhill Chapter in Oregon.

Isadora Nassa, a 7th grader from Riverside, Connecticut, sponsored by the Putnam Hill Chapter in Connecticut.

Savannah Clingan, an 8th grader from Hays, Kansas, sponsored by the Courtney Spalding Chapter in Kansas.

Third place

Sophia Thompson, a 5th grader from Meridien, Idaho, sponsored by the Ee-dah-how Chapter in Idaho.

Mathias Mayo-Hostetter, a 6th grader from Los Angeles, California, sponsored by the Beverly Hills Chapter in California.

Phoebe Turner, a 7th grader from Kelly, Wyoming, sponsored by the Davey Jackson Chapter in Wyoming.

Sam Longhurst, an 8th grader from Lehi, Utah, sponsored by the Wasatch Range Chapter in Utah.

The first place winners from each grade will be presented with a pin, certificate and monetary award on stage at the Education Awards Night during Continental Congress. The second and third place winners will receive a certificate and monetary award. The National First Place Winners’ essays will be on display in the Americana Room during Continental Congress.

This committee is also delighted to see a number of familiar names: students who have entered in the past have entered again, and sets of siblings, both who have entered in their respective grade levels this year, and siblings who have entered over the past few years. We can see that students do enjoy this contest and look forward to writing essays again, and we thank all the chapters across the country and from Units Overseas for promoting this contest and making it such a successful way to reach out to our local communities!

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Scholarship Eligibility

Who is eligible to apply for the scholarships offered through the DAR Scholarship Committee?

• An applicant must be a United States (US) citizen. Proof of US citizenship includes the following documents: a US birth certificate, a current US passport, or government-issued naturalization papers.
• An applicant must attend or plan to attend an accredited college or university in the United States.
• Please review each scholarship’s description for specific eligibility criteria.

Do you have to be a DAR member or related to someone in the organization to receive a DAR scholarship?

• There is only one scholarship that requires an applicant to be the child or step child of a dues-paying DAR member. This scholarships is the Lillian & Arthur Dunn Scholarship. 
• An applicant must provide the DAR member’s National Number to demonstrate eligibility for the scholarships.
• The Madeline Pickett (Halbert) Cogswell Nursing Scholarship requires an applicant to be a DAR member, eligible to become a DAR member or the descendant of a DAR member. The DAR member's National Number must be provided. 

If scholarship applicants are the step-children of a DAR member are they eligible to apply for the Lillian & Arthur Dunn Scholarship?

• Yes!  If an applicant is the stepchild of a DAR member they must provide their step mother’s National Number in their application to demonstrate eligibility for the scholarships.

Do scholarship applicants need to have a DAR Chapter sponsor their applications?

• No. DAR chapter sponsorship of a scholarship applicant is no longer required; however, an applicant may want to reach out to a DAR chapter in their area for help with their application.

What are the eligibility criteria for the scholarships offered through the DAR Scholarship Committee?

• For example, some scholarships are available to all types of students such as graduating high school students, those currently enrolled in a college or university or those accepted or currently enrolled in graduate school. 
• While other scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria requiring specific documentation such as current enrollment or a letter of acceptance in a nursing program or medical school, a child of a DAR member, a tribal card, or a student pursuing a certain field of study (eg. music, chemistry).

Online Application Submission Process

How does an applicant apply for the DAR Scholarship Committee's scholarships using the new on-line submission process?

• An applicant will use the DAR Scholarship Committee’s online submission link found on the DAR public website to submit their scholarship application. The DAR Scholarship Committee’s direct URL link to the online application submission portal is https://dar.academicworks.com
• After setting up their scholarship profile an applicant will be presented with their application to complete.
• Please note, the platform allows multiple visits while an applicant completes their application by clicking “Save” at the bottom of the application webpage.  Once an applicant has completed their application they will then click “Finish” at the bottom of the webpage to submit their application for consideration.

Are all internet browsers compatible with the DAR Academic Works Scholarship website?

• For the best functionality and ease of use with the DAR scholarship application platform it is recommended to use one of the following web browsers: Apple Safari, Google Chrome, Firefox Mozilla, or Microsoft Edge. 

Submission of Required Documents

What if applicants do not have access to a computer to submit their applications or to a scanner to upload required scholarship application documents such as birth certificates or transcripts?

• Encourage the applicants to seek assistance from their high school guidance counselors, counseling office, school administration or have them visit their local public library to access community computers.
• DAR members or chapter may also want to contact local schools to offer assistance for students applying for DAR scholarships.

What should an applicant do if they are having difficulties uploading a required document?

• Carefully read the instructions provided in the application instructions on how to upload a document.  Keep the file's name simple and avoid using symbols, figures or punctuation in the title. In addition, keep the file size small. up to 5mb is allowed.
• Be sure to use one of the following recommended web browsers: Apple Safari, Google Chrome, Firefox Mozilla, and Microsoft Edge
• The FAQ section found on the online system also provides additional information for uploading or removing documents.

Does the transcript submitted with the application need to be an official transcript?

• An applicant may submit an unofficial transcript at the time of application. 
• If selected as a recipient of a scholarship, an official transcript must be submitted (mailed or emailed) to the office of the Reporter General before payment of the scholarship is processed. If an official transcript is not received by the requested date, the scholarship will be forfeited and awarded to the next qualified recipient.

What type of transcript should be submitted with the application?

An applicant should carefully review the criteria for each scholarship and submit the type of transcript that is required for the scholarship(s) for which they are applying to receive. Please note, only one document can be uploaded in the transcript area. Therefore, scan multiple pages into one file before uploading the file.

• Graduating High School Students should provide their high school transcripts and college transcripts if taking college credits while enrolled in high school.  Home-schooled students must include transcripts for grades eight through twelve. 
• College undergraduates currently enrolled in college should provide their college transcripts.  High school transcripts may be voluntarily submitted with the college transcripts to enhance the application, if desired.
• Graduate students applying for one of the graduate scholarships should provide their undergraduate college/university transcripts, in addition to their graduate school transcripts.
• Medical students applying for one of the medical scholarships should include their college/university transcripts, in addition to their medical school transcripts.

Does an applicant need to submit test scores or class size and rank with their application?

An applicant should carefully review the criteria for each scholarship and submit the type of test score that is required for the scholarship(s) for which they are applying to receive.

• Graduating High School Students: DAR no longer requires the submission of scholastic achievement scores (ACT or SAT) or class size and rank with a student’s application.
• Medical Students: Should provide a copy of their MCAT scores if not documented on their transcripts.
• Law Students: Should provide a copy of their LSAT scores if not documented on their transcripts.
• Graduate Students: May want to voluntarily include GRE scores with their transcripts to enhance their application. 

Do all the DAR scholarships require Financial Need Information?

• There are five DAR scholarships that require financial need information to be submitted at the time of application.  The scholarships requiring this information are the Mildred Nutting Nursing Scholarship, the Caroline E. Holt Scholarship, the Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship, the American Indian Scholarship, and the Frances Crawford Marin American Indian Scholarship.  All other DAR scholarships do not require financial need information to be submitted.

Is it okay to submit other financial documents and information to show financial need?

• No. Please limit information submitted to the questions being asked in the application.
• Please do not submit additional financial documents or information to demonstrate financial need such as tax forms, bank statements, or other confidential financial information.

Can recommendations, supporting documents or transcripts be emailed or mailed, instead of uploading them into an applicant’s online application?

• No. For the confidential transmission of an applicant’s information, all documents must be submitted through the secure online scholarship website directly into the student’s application prior to the January 31 st deadline. No emailed or mailed information can be accepted.  No exceptions.

If an applicant has received a letter(s) of acceptance into a medical school, or a nursing or occupational/physical therapy program and has not yet decided to attend, is the student still eligible to apply for the scholarship?

• Yes, if chosen as a scholarship recipient, the applicant will need to provide documentation they have decided to attend a specific school or program by the specified date.
• If acceptance has not been obtained by the January 31st deadline, please upload a typed/computer generated list of programs applied to in the acceptance letter upload area.

Are the requirements for the GPA’s on a weighted or unweighted grading scale?

• Depending on the grading system that the institution uses, it must be equivalent to a 4.0 on their grading system.  Students attending institutions that use a “Pass/Fail” grading system or those with a GED should use "0.00" in the GPA section of the application.

General Questions

If applicants have questions about a specific scholarship who should they ask?

• An applicant should contact the National Vice Chair responsible for each scholarship. Their email addresses are listed on the Scholarships page on the public DAR site where all the scholarships are listed.

How and when will applicants be notified if they are selected as one of the winning recipients of a scholarship?

• All applicants whether selected as the recipient of each scholarship or not selected will be notified by email no later than the second week of May.
• The notification of congratulations or regrets will be emailed to the student’s email address of record that was submitted in their scholarship application profile, using the online system. 

When is the scholarship payment mailed to the applicant’s school/university?

• All scholarship payments will be mailed out during the month of August directly to the appplicant's designated school or university  All the requested information must be sent in by the deadline that is given when the recipient is notified that they are the recipient of the scholarship.

Disqualifications to Avoid:

1. Do not apply for a scholarship unless the student’s level of education is appropriate for the scholarship.

2. Do not submit any document with the photograph of the student visible. Please cover the photograph(s) before uploading the documents into the application. This includes passports, transcripts, resumes, and tribal cards.

3. Do not submit documents for proof of United States citizenship other than those requested.

4. Do not wait until the last minute to request recommendations. All information must be submitted by the January 31 st at 11:59 pm (Hawaii Time) deadline. No exceptions.

5. Do not submit more than a one-page personal statement/resume.

6. Do not submit incomplete transcripts.

7. Do not submit the application without all the required documents.

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The Orange Grove

Daughters of the Revolution Scholarship: Guide to Succeed

Navigating the landscape of scholarships can be a daunting task for students wishing to pursue higher education. Among the myriad of financial aid options available, the scholarships provided by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) stand out as opportunities rooted in the organization’s dedication to education, patriotism, and historical preservation. These scholarships cater to a wide range of academic interests and are designed to support students who demonstrate exceptional dedication and academic excellence.

The Daughters of the American Revolution scholarships are numerous, each with its unique criteria and application process. They appeal to students across various fields of study; from history and political science to medicine and education. The structured application timeline, clear criteria, and rigorous selection process ensure that candidates are evaluated fairly and scholarships are awarded to those who meet the high standards set by the DAR. Securing one of these scholarships not only alleviates financial burdens but is also an accolade that acknowledges a student’s hard work and potential for future success.

Key Takeaways

• DAR scholarships offer financial aid across diverse fields of study to students showing academic dedication.
• There are clear criteria and a defined application timeline for students wishing to apply for DAR scholarships.
• Winning a DAR scholarship is an acknowledgment of a student’s academic excellence and potential.

Understanding DAR Scholarships

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) provides a series of scholarships aimed at supporting students pursuing higher education. Each scholarship has specific criteria tailored to DAR members and the organization’s objectives.

Eligibility and Membership

DAR scholarships are primarily available to U.S. citizens who demonstrate dedication to their education and values that align with the DAR’s mission. Membership in DAR itself is not always a mandatory requirement, but some scholarships may be specifically designated for DAR members or their descendants.

Types of Scholarships Offered

The organization offers a broad range of scholarships targeting different fields of study such as history, nursing, law, and more. Specific scholarships may also be in place for students with American Indian heritage or those interested in certain disciplines like economics or political science.

Application Process Overview

Scholarship applications should be submitted via the DAR’s online system between November 1 and January 31. Prospective applicants can access the online scholarship application portal to fill in pertinent information, upload required documents, and track their submission.

The Application Timeline

The Daughters of the American Revolution Scholarship program operates on a strict timeline tailored to various scholarship offerings. Each applicant must adhere to these key dates for a successful application process.

Important Dates

January 31st marks the final day when applications for the DAR scholarships are generally accepted; this includes the specialized American Indian Scholarship . All materials should be submitted well in advance of this date to ensure they are received and processed on time.

Submission Deadlines

Submissions need to follow Eastern Standard Time, even for applicants in regions like Hawaii; therefore, applicants should convert to Hawaii Time ahead of the deadline . It is imperative to check specific scholarship details for exact deadline times, as any submissions beyond the deadline may not be considered.

Scholarship Criteria and Requirements

Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) scholarships are designed to support students with dedicated academic goals, necessitating clear academic, personal, and financial criteria for eligibility.

Academic and Personal Standards

Applicants for DAR scholarships must demonstrate academic excellence , which is typically quantified through a minimum GPA requirement. High school transcripts or graduate school transcripts serve as documentary proof of the applicant’s academic achievements. The standards aim to identify individuals who not only excel academically but also embody the personal qualities deemed important by the DAR.

Documentary Evidence

To apply for DAR scholarships, candidates must supply adequate documentary evidence . This includes proof of United States citizenship , which may be a birth certificate or naturalization papers . Academic records, such as official transcripts, are necessary to establish the applicant’s qualifications and readiness for higher education pursuits.

Financial Needs Assessment

An assessment of financial need is a critical component of the DAR scholarships. Applicants are required to provide financial need information , which helps the DAR evaluate who most requires financial assistance. This information ensures that scholarships are awarded to students for who they will have a significant impact in pursuing higher education.

Specific DAR Scholarships

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) offers a range of scholarships tailored to support students in varying fields of study. These scholarships are designed for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students who exhibit a strong dedication to advancing their education.

American Indian Scholarships

One specific category DAR provides is for American Indian students . These scholarships are intended to support those who can demonstrate American Indian heritage and are investing in their academic future, whether it be in high school, undergraduate, or graduate levels.

Nursing and Medical Fields

DAR also bestows scholarships for those pursuing careers in nursing , medicine , and occupational/physical therapy . Students enrolled or accepted into nursing programs or medical schools can take advantage of these funds to aid in their studies and contribute to the healthcare field.

Field-Specific Scholarships for Various Studies

For students committed to specialized areas, the DAR offers field-specific scholarships . These include aid for studies in history, economics, law, political science, and more, across all levels of higher education – from high school seniors to those seeking graduate degrees. The DAR Marian Anderson Legacy Scholarship , for example, is a unique award for students pursuing undergraduate or graduate study in music.

Navigating the DAR Scholarship Portal

When approaching the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Scholarship process, applicants will interact with its online system extensively. The DAR Scholarship Portal, powered by DAR Academic Works, is the gateway for prospective recipients to submit their applications efficiently.

Registration and Login

Prospective applicants must first register on the DAR Scholarship Committee’s online application submission portal to gain access. This involves providing some basic personal information to set up an account. Once registration is complete, applicants can log in anytime to manage their application. It is essential to keep login credentials secure and handy for future access to the portal.

Completing the Application Form

After logging in, the next step is to fill out the scholarship application form . Applicants should expect to provide detailed information about their educational background, academic achievements, and financial need. The form may also require the submission of essays or personal statements and requests for recommendations. Each section must be completed accurately to avoid processing delays. Applicants may return to their application to edit and save progress as needed before the final submission deadline, which traditionally falls on January 31 at 11:59 pm (Hawaii Time).

Support and Troubleshooting

Should any technical issues or questions arise, the DAR Scholarship Committee provides assistance through the portal. A frequently asked questions (FAQ) section is accessible, offering immediate guidance for common concerns. For more personalized support or technical difficulties not addressed in the FAQ, applicants can contact the Scholarship Committee directly from the online portal. Timely attention to troubleshooting can prevent last-minute issues close to the application deadlines.

Selection Process and Criteria

The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) scholarships are awarded through a meticulous process that evaluates applicants on several specific criteria. The DAR Scholarship Committee spearheads this procedure, ensuring candidates are assessed fairly and according to the established guidelines.

Judging Panel and Evaluation

The DAR Scholarship Committee constitutes a group of judges responsible for the evaluation of scholarship applications. They review each submission with attention to detail, considering factors such as academic performance, dedication to the field of study, and alignment with the scholarship’s purpose. The judges, appointed by the Reporter General , bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise from various academic disciplines to the table.

Applications are generally scored based on:

• Academic achievements and transcripts
• Demonstrated commitment to the chosen field of study
• Essays and personal statements
• Letters of recommendation

Notification of Results

Once the judging panel has reached its decisions, the scholarship recipients are notified by the DAR. The process includes:

• Formal communication via email or letter.
• A public announcement, stipulating the confidentiality of the results until officially released.

Applicants not selected for a scholarship are also informed, allowing them to pursue alternative funding opportunities. The DAR strives to ensure that every applicant is treated with respect and receives timely communication regarding the status of their application.

What to Do After Winning a Scholarship

Securing a scholarship, such as those awarded by the Daughters of the American Revolution , is a significant achievement, requiring prompt and proper action to ensure that recipients gain the full benefit of the financial assistance.

Scholarship Acceptance

Upon winning a scholarship, recipients should immediately send a letter of acceptance . This letter is a formal acknowledgement of the award and an expression of gratitude. It often includes a confirmation of understanding the scholarship’s terms and a reaffirmation of the recipient’s commitment to adhere to the academic or other requirements stipulated by the awarding body.

Funding and Payment Distribution

Understanding how the funding and payment distribution works is crucial. Scholarship funds are typically sent directly to the institution and applied to the student’s account. Recipients should confirm the schedule of payments with both the scholarship provider and their school’s financial aid office to ensure the funds are applied correctly and promptly. Some scholarships disburse funds in a single installment, while others may distribute financial assistance over multiple terms.

Renewal and Maintenance of Scholarships

The Daughters of the American Revolution offers scholarships that require attention to detail when it comes to both renewal and ongoing eligibility requirements. Understanding these processes is crucial for beneficiaries who wish to continue receiving financial aid throughout their academic journey.

Renewal Process

Beneficiaries of DAR scholarships should be aware that renewal is not automatic . Each recipient must submit a new application annually to be considered for continued scholarship funding . Applicants should consult the scholarships page for specific renewal deadlines and required documentation.

Maintaining Eligibility

To maintain eligibility for a DAR scholarship, students must adhere to several parameters. Primarily, they must:

• Maintain a minimum grade point average as stipulated by the specific scholarship.
• Stay enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program.
• Show evidence of continued dedication to their field of study.

It’s essential that all scholarship recipients check the scholarships page for any updates on eligibility criteria, as these may change over time. Monitoring and fulfilling these criteria are fundamental to the preservation of scholarship status.

Additional Resources

When navigating the scholarship landscape offered by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), applicants have access to various resources. These include the support of DAR chapters and the ability to seek further opportunities beyond DAR itself.

DAR Chapters and Counseling Support

DAR chapters can be an invaluable source of support for scholarship applicants. They provide counseling and guidance throughout the application process. Aspiring scholars may contact a local DAR chapter for assistance, which could range from help with their application to understanding the specific requirements of different scholarships. Detailed guidance can be found on the DAR’s public website , where applicants can also gather information on various scholarships available.

External Scholarship Opportunities

In addition to the scholarships offered by DAR, applicants should consider external scholarship opportunities. Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships that can be searched online. Students are encouraged to employ a strategic approach by matching their specific fields of study and interests with scholarships offered by external entities. It’s suggested to complement DAR scholarships with additional financial aid resources to widen the potential for educational funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries related to the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) scholarships, providing specific details on eligibility, application processes, and award information.

What are the eligibility criteria for the Daughters of the American Revolution scholarship?

Scholarship applicants must be United States citizens and demonstrate a commitment to their education. Specific scholarships may have additional criteria, including pursuing particular fields of study or being a direct descendant of a DAR member.

How can one apply for the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen award?

Candidates for the DAR Good Citizen award must be nominated by their school, showing qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. They then complete a personal statement and a timed historical essay.

What is required for a DAR Scholarship recommendation letter?

A DAR scholarship recommendation letter should support the applicant’s qualifications, including academic achievements, character, and community involvement. The letter should be detailed and come from a credible source such as a teacher or community leader.

How much is awarded through the Daughters of the American Revolution scholarship program?

The DAR awards multiple scholarships annually, and the amounts vary. Scholarships can support studies in diverse areas including history, law, and education, and individual awards can range from one-time offerings to larger, renewable assistance.

What is involved in the Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest?

The essay contest requires participants to write on a historical topic related to the Revolutionary War, providing analysis and perspectives that align with a given theme. Students must adhere to guidelines regarding length and supporting documentation.

What strategies can enhance your chances of winning the DAR scholarship?

Applicants should present a strong academic record, community service experience, and a well-crafted essay aligned with the DAR’s values. Accurately completing all application details and meeting deadlines is crucial to enhance one’s chances of being selected.

Helpful Resources

Navigating the scholarship landscape can often be overwhelming, but there's no need to go through it alone. Scholarship Owl offers a supportive platform that can help simplify your search by matching you with scholarships suited to your unique situation. By consolidating numerous scholarship opportunities into one place, it provides a significant time-saving benefit, allowing you to focus more on your studies and less on the search. If you're looking to streamline the scholarship application process, Scholarship Owl may be a valuable tool in your educational journey.

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Scholarships

A very important part of the DAR is promoting education. Each year, Illinois Daughters award college scholarships. These are limited to students who are U.S. citizens, graduating seniors from high school, and those who will attend colleges or universities in Illinois (two year junior colleges and four year institutions). Applicants must have a letter of endorsement from an Illinois DAR chapter. To qualify for the Illinois State Scholarships, a student's financial need and academic consideration are both factors.

The General Henry Dearborn History Scholarship has no financial need component, but is for a student interested in pursuing a career in some phase of history.

Scholarship forms are available here:

• Application Instructions
• 2024 Illinois Scholarship Application
• Illinois State Scholarship Financial Need Form
• 2024 General Henry Dearborn American History Scholarship Application
• 2024 Scholarship Renewal form
• 2024 Shorthand Summary of National Scholarships

Additionally, one scholarship is awarded in each of Illinois' seven DAR districts. To determine which chapter is closest to you, click here .

Only applications completed correctly and submitted in one package will be considered. Incorrect applications are discarded and no records are returned. All scholarships are awarded regardless of race, religion, sex, or national origin. An applicant can reapply for the next year if he/she maintains a “C” average at college.

American History Essay Contests

Each year chapters in the Illinois DAR sponsor the American History essay contest. All grade 5, 6, 7, and 8 students in a public, private, or parochial school, or those who are home schooled, are eligible. The contest is conducted without regard to race, religion, sex, or national origin.

A different topic is used each year. Further information about the contest is available on the National DAR site . Or, check with your local DAR chapter for additional information and deadlines.

DAR Good Citizens

The goal of the DAR Good Citizens program is to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship. The program is open to all senior class students enrolled in accredited public or private secondary schools who are in good standing with their state boards of education. United States citizenship is not required.

The student selected as the school’s DAR Good Citizen must have the qualities of dependability (which includes truthfulness, loyalty, and punctuality); service (which includes cooperation, courtesy, and consideration of others); leadership (which includes personality, self-control, and ability to assume responsibility); and patriotism (which includes unselfish interest in family, school, community, and nation) to an outstanding degree.

Each school’s DAR Good Citizen receives a DAR Good Citizens pin, certificate, and wallet recognition card. This student is then eligible, if he/she wishes, to enter the DAR Good Citizens Scholarship Contest.

Check with your high school office to see if it has received information from the local DAR chapter about the DAR Good Citizens or for additional information and deadlines.

Junior American Citizens (JAC)

Many Illinois DAR chapters sponsor Junior American Citizens clubs. The purpose of the JAC is to teach America's school children, through JAC clubs and contests, the principles of our democratic government and an appreciation for our great country. Through these opportunities and recognition of the students' work, we hope to encourage today's Junior American Citizens — the future leaders of our country.

DAR Schools

Through donations and gifts, the Illinois DAR supports one DAR school:

• Kate Duncan Smith DAR School

And the four DAR-approved schools:

• Hillside School, Inc.
• Hindman Settlement School, Inc.
• Berry College, Inc.
• Crossnore School, Inc.

Through our donations, the children at these schools are given opportunities for an education and a safe place to live.

Most of these schools began with a small group of children in disadvantaged areas where public education was not accessible. As improvement of roads and public education facilities occurred in these areas, the needs of the communities changed. The schools have grown into fully operational campuses, meeting the changing needs of their communities. Today the DAR schools encompass a variety of special needs programs including attention deficit disorder, dyslexia, adult literacy, and children in family crisis. We also serve thousands of other eager students from pre-school through college who need a place to learn to fulfill their potential.

DAR members collect Box Tops for Education for these schools.

American Indian Schools

Students attending Bacone College and Chemawa Indian School come from all over the United States. Members of the Illinois DAR work diligently to raise funds for American Indians scholarships and provide support to the schools by collecting Box Tops for Education. Some Illinois chapters hold garage sales and other fundraisers specifically to raise funds for these schools. America's first peoples have shaped our nation through their cultural, religious, social, and political contributions. As Daughters, we strive to raise awareness of the American Indian through programs, displays, and gifts.

Literacy Promotion

Around big cities and small communities in Illinois, you will find Daughters working to promote literacy. Whether they are donating books to libraries, volunteering in local schools or libraries, or tutoring a student, or reading to a child or blind citizen, the members of the Illinois DAR are helping and encouraging others to read.

ELA Brave and True by Marilyn Yung

DAR Patriots of the American Revolution Essay Contest

High school essay contest

Looking for a high school writing contest this fall? Look no further than the Daughters of the American Revolution’s (DAR) Patriots of the American Revolution Essay Contest. In my previous teaching position, a few of my high school students participated in this contest as part of our Writer’s Workshop routine. Entering the contest was one of the options they could choose for their portfolios.

If you’re not familiar with the DAR, here’s a brief intro from the organization’s website: “The DAR, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education for children.”

My students have had great success with the  DAR Patriots of the American Revolution Essay Contest.  Within the last three years, two of my students have written essays that won at both the local and state level, where monetary prizes were awarded. Needless to say, I’m very proud of those students!

This year’s 2022-2023 contest guidelines sheet details the topic, length (800-1,200 for 6-8 grades), format, and bibliography details. (Note: Each DAR chapter designates their own individual due dates. Check with your local chapter by locating it here on the  national DAR website’s chapter locater. )

Here’s the high school essay prompt:

“Select a figure from the era of the American Revolution (1773-1783). Discuss how he or she influenced the course of the American Revolution, who he or she was and his/her contribution to the founding of a new nation. Your figure may be any person, whether a well-known figure or an everyday man, woman or child who supported the American Revolution in ways large or small.”

With that prompt in mind, here’s my advice to your students:

Choose a lesser known patriot. Go beyond the founding fathers to find and write about a patriot whom the judges won’t be as familiar with. My student who won at state last year, for example, wrote about the patriot Nancy Hart.

Download the contest guidelines by clicking the button below:

And here’s my last tip:.

Tell your students to get creative and go beyond the traditional informative essay. Blend genres, combining, for example, a journal entry with a biographical piece.

I encourage you to try the DAR Patriots of the American Revolution High School Contest with your high school students. It was a mainstay in my classes.

Thanks for reading!

Have you ever tried a DAR contest? Leave a comment below or send me a message via my  Contact Page.  If you need more info, please ask. I’ll be glad to help you however I can.

I thoroughly believe that  writing contests  can infuse ELA with relevance and a dash of project-based learning. Whenever students know their words will enter “the real world” and be reviewed by real people, it makes them take the work more seriously.

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Santa Monica Chapter, NSDAR Santa Monica, CA

Scholarships, Contests and Awards

For further details and deadlines, please contact our chapter regent .  , dar scholarships.

For details on some of the National scholarships offered, go to the NSDAR Scholarship page .  To access the DAR Scholarship Committee's online scholarship application portal,  click here .  DAR members should notify their chapter of their participation.  Entrants who are non-DAR members must be sponsored by a DAR Chapter. Please contact the regent for more information. 

The California State Society DAR (CSSDAR) scholarship for Native Americans is awarded annually. Contact the Chapter Regent to notify her of your application and follow the detailed directions on each form below. 1.  American Indians Committee California Indian Scholarship Information 2. American Indians Committee California Indian Scholarship Application 3. American Indians Committee California Indian Scholarship Financial Need Form

Constitution Week Poster Contest

DAR and non-DAR members are invited to participate in the Constitution Week Poster Contest. So, grab your favorite art tools and plan your project!  All entries must be received by the chapter regent by January 1.  Please inform the regent before beginning.

• The winning poster will be printed in the spring of 2024 and offered for sale at the DAR store.
• For this year's theme, the poster should illustrate/celebrate the spirit or meaning of the U.S. Constitution. .
• For the most recent Constitution Week Poster Contest Guidelines and form, please contact the Regent.

DAR American History Essay Contest

Chapters may reach out to students in the community and do not need to go through just the schools; libraries, church and youth organizations can also participate, but please stay within the state of your chapter.

One essay at each grade level can be selected as the chapter winner and forwarded to the state competition .  DAR chapters will then send the winner's essay, title sheet found in forms, and three judges sheets also found in forms, by email to the State Chairman American History for state competition.  For more information, please visit the NSDAR's  Essay Contests  webpage.  This contest is conducted without regard to race, religion, sex, or national origin.  

The TOPIC for 2023-2024

“The Stars and Stripes Forever" --- On May 14, 1897, John Philip Sousa played his new march, “The Stars and Stripes Forever.”  This song would become the national march of the United States on December 11, 1987. Imagine it is 1897 and you are a newspaper reporter for The Philadelphia Times. Your newspaper editor has asked you to write an article about the new song performed that day. Your article needs to tell about Sousa’s life and the story behind the song. It is the first performance of the song, so make sure your article includes thoughts about the music and how the audience reacts to what was seen and heard that day.

Title of Essay:  Stars & Stripes Forever Length 300-1,000 words (depending on grade level, please check forms) Please note that the entire essay must be the student’s original work. This includes all research, writing, and editing, which must be done by the student only and not by a parent, teacher, tutor, or other helper. Essays not following these guidelines will be disqualified.

AMERICAN HISTORY CONTEST FLYER (AHC1004)  AMERICAN HISTORY CONTEST INFORMATION  (AHC1000) AHC Study Guide - Contact your local DAR Chapter AHC JUDGE'S SCORING SHEET (AHC1001) AHC Electronic Contest Submission Form (AHC1008) - DAR USE ONLY (available at State level) American History Committee Essay Contests Cover Sheet and Signature Form (AHC1009) - DAR USE ONLY (available at State level)

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Deadlines for Essay Contests: Schools to Chapters: November 6 Chapters to District: December 4 Districts to State: January 2 States to Divisions: February 15 Divisions to National: March 15

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Patriots of the American Revolution DAR High School Essay Contest

In 2021, NSDAR established a new high school-level essay contest focused on figures of the American Revolution, in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. 

The contest is open to students in grades 9th -12th in public, private, or parochial schools, or those who are in registered home school programs. All grades will be judged together, with one chapter winner chosen to move on to the next stage of judging .  This contest is conducted without regard to race, religion, sex, or national origin.   For more information, please visit the NSDAR's  Essay Contests  webpage.  Please contact your local DAR Chapter for more resources and to let them know you'd like to participate.

The TOPIC for 2023-2024: 

Students are encouraged to use primary sources (i.e., immediate, first-hand accounts such as letters, diaries, speeches, or newspaper reports) for their research. Lesser well-known figures are acceptable, but subjects must have been actual participants, i.e. not fictionalized.

Patriots of the American Revolution DAR Essay Contest Suggested Reading Resources (these are a few suggestions of the many resources available):       Liberty’s Daughters: The Revolutionary Experience of American Women, 1750-1800 by Mary Beth Norton       The Colored Patriots of the American Revolution: Forgotten Black Heroes by William Cooper Nell       Founding Mothers by Cokie Roberts       Valiant Ambition: George Washington, Benedict Arnold, and the Fate of the American Revolution by Nathaniel Philbrick       Bernardo de Galvez: Spanish Hero of the American Revolution by Gonzalo M. Quintero Saravia       John Adams by David McCullough       Patriot Hero of the Hudson Valley: The Life and Ride of Sybil Ludington by Vincent T. Dacquino

PATRIOTS ESSAY CONTEST FLYER PATRIOTS ESSAY INFORMATION  (AHC1002) PATRIOTS JUDGE'S SCORING SHEET  (AHC1003) American History Committee Essay Contests Cover Sheet and Signature Form (AHC1009) - DAR USE ONLY (available at State level)

DAR Good Citizens

Each year the Santa Monica Chapter, NSDAR, honors a local high school senior with the DAR Good Citizens award recognizing an individual who exemplifies by demonstration, the qualities of a good citizen: dependability, service, leadership and patriotism! 

This program is open to senior-class students enrolled in accredited public or private secondary schools that are in good standing with their state boards of education. Along with the honor of the award, the recipient receives a DAR Good Citizens pin and certificate. This student is then eligible to enter the DAR Good Citizens Scholarship Contest. 

Have your school's counselor contact our chapter for instructions and deadlines.  For more information, please visit the DAR Good Citizens  webpage.

GOOD CITIZENS FLYER

Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) and Junior ROTC (JROTC) Awards

Every Spring, our chapter presents  ROTC medals to outstanding high school and college cadets in the local area.  For more information, please visit the NSDAR Medals webpage.

Outstanding DAR Service for Veterans Award

This award is presented to a DAR member in recognition of her outstanding care given to veterans in any of the following areas: Department of Veterans Affairs facilities, state veterans facilities, nursing homes, shelters, and outpatient clinics. The Outstanding Veterans Volunteer has given more than her time. She has made meaningful contributions to veterans through creative and resourceful outreach.

Outstanding Teacher of American History

The Outstanding Teacher of American History contest honors full-time teachers of American history, government, or civics for grades five through twelve.  Our chapter's nominee won the national competition to become the NSDAR 2021 Outstanding Teacher of American History.  See more in our NEWS webpage.

Photos courtesy of NSDAR

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For more than 118 years, the Texas Society NSDAR, has provided students with educational opportunities. The state society sponsors sixteen scholarships at Texas State colleges and universities while many chapters also provide chapter sponsored scholarships to students in their local area.

To find out more about these educational opportunities check out the links below.

Essay Contest

The American History Essay Contest is open to all students in 5th through 8th grade, in public, private, or parochial schools, and in registered home-school programs. Information about this contest is available on the NSDAR Website . Teachers or school administrators in Texas may contact a chapter in their area.

Scholarships

The Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution has established fifteen scholarships at thirteen universities throughout the State of Texas. The scholarships are administered by the institution. For more information about the scholarship and for instructions on how to apply contact the institution’s financial aid office.

• Angelo State University:  TXDAR General Scholarship
• Howard Payne University:  Lottie Wooley Scholarship; Cornelia A. Massengill Scholarship
• Prairie View A&M University: Texas DAR Endowed Early Childhood Education Scholarship
• Sam Houston State University:  Law Enforcement Scholarship; Teacher Education Scholarship
• Stephen F. Austin University:  Forestry Scholarship
• Sul Ross State University:  Agricultural Scholarship
• Texas A&M University, Kingsville:  Agricultural Scholarship
• Texas Tech University:  Science Scholarship
• Texas State University, San Marcos:  Learning Disabilities Scholarship
• Texas Woman's University:  Nursing Scholarship
• University of Texas:  TXDAR Endowed Scholarship
• UTMB:  Occupational Therapy Scholarship
• West Texas A&M University:  TXDAR Panhandle-Plains Historical Research Center

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution also have several scholarships. Click here for information and instructions on how to apply.

Chapter sponsorship is no longer required. A chapter or state chair may work with the applicant to put the information together to send to the DAR Scholarship Committee. To find a chapter in your area, visit the chapter page .

Teacher Resources

Youth programs.

Junior American Citizens (JAC) Program is open to every school-age child in the United States and promotes good citizenship and appreciation of American heritage and history. Information on the JAC Program is available on the NSDAR Website . Students should contact their teacher for information about this contest. Teachers or school administrators in Texas may contact a chapter in their area.

DAR Good Citizens Award

The purpose of the DAR Good Citizens Committee is to recognize and reward high-school seniors who demonstrates the qualities of a good citizen. The program is open to all senior class students enrolled in an accredited public or private secondary schools that are in good standing with their state board of education. Information on this award and contest is available on the NSDAR Website . Teachers or school administrators in Texas may contact a chapter in their area.

DAR Youth Citizenship Medal

This award is presented to students in grades five through eleven (elementary, junior and senior high schools; public, private, or parochial), who fulfill the qualities of honor, service, courage, leadership, and patriotism. Information about this award is available on the NSDAR Website . Teachers or school administrators in Texas may contact a chapter in their area.

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Bruce Drysdale 5th-grade student advances to national finals in DAR's essay contest

Bruce Drysdale fifth grader Lia Martinonis has advanced to the national finals in the Daughters of the American Revolution 2024 Essay Contest, and each time her essay has advanced, her family has celebrated with a cake.

She is anxiously hoping for more cake. Martinonis is one of eight fifth-grade finalists in the nation, and so far, she's won three awards for her essay — one at the local level, one at the state level and the latest for the Southeastern Division.

"I am unbelievably proud. I have felt both shocked and pleased each time I learned that I had won," she said.

And there's prize money involved: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third place. The winners will be recognized at the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Continental Congress, which is being held June 26-30 in Washington, D.C.

The topic for the contest was “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Essay writers were asked to imagine they were a newspaper reporter for The Philadelphia Times on May 14, 1897, and the newspaper's editor asked them to attend and report on the first public performance of John Philip Sousa’s new march, “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” The students were to tell about Sousa’s life and the story behind the song.

Lia was with her family on April 20 in Durham to receive the state award, her mother, Andrea, said.

"This essay contest has been an incredible experience for Lia. My daughter aspires to be a writer when she grows up," Andrea Martinonis said. "This opportunity has given her the confidence to pursue that dream. Lia researched the essay subject, learned about American history, honed her writing skills, and read her speech to a large audience at the initial award ceremony. 

"As an educator, I couldn't be more pleased that DAR sponsors this contest, encouraging students to write essays and learn about our nation's past. As a parent, I am thrilled that my daughter chooses to spend her free time reading and writing and that her interests and skills are being recognized."

More: North Henderson student one of four grand prize winners in national essay contest

Lia said her teacher, April Summey, assigned the essay contest to her class.

"I remember being frustrated when drafting my essay, but now I am so glad my hard work paid off. I still cannot believe this is all happening," Lia Martinonis said.  

This part of her essay describes Sousa talking about composing his new march:

"...Sousa said that he composed the song in his head on his return to America as he grieved the death of his beloved band manager, David Blakely. Sousa said, “In a kind of dreamy way, I used to think over old days at Washington when I was leader of the Marine Band…when we played at all public functions, and I could see the Stars and Stripes flying from the flagstaff.” He also stated, “And that flag of ours became glorified… And to my imagination it seemed to be the biggest, grandest flag in the world, and I could not get back under it quick enough.”

More: Apple Valley Middle student one of four grand prize winners in national contest

Summey called Lia a phenomenal, gifted student who "always goes above and beyond."

"She thrives on a challenge and is an avid learner. Her contagious curiosity shines brightly as she lights up upon acquiring new knowledge," Summey said. "Every year, my fifth grade students work on the DAR essay. They are given a prompt and required to read multiple primary and secondary sources about the topic in order to prepare. I am very passionate about the contest, because it helps students learn history and get excited about it." 

Dean Hensley is the news editor for the Hendersonville Times-News. Email him with tips, questions and comments at [email protected]. Please help support this kind of local journalism with a subscription to the Hendersonville Times-News.

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DAR announces American History Essay Contest

Students enrolled in fifth through eighth grades are invited to enter the 2023-2024 American History Essay Contest sponsored by the Barrington-based Signal Hill Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). The contest reflects the organization's values of historic preservation, education, and patriotism by inviting students to think and write creatively about historic U.S. events, specifically those related to the American Revolution.

This year's essay topic is as follows:

On May 14, 1897, John Phillip Sousa played his new march, "The Stars and Stripes Forever." This song would become the national march of the United States on Dec. 11, 1987. Imagine it is 1897, and you are a newspaper reporter for The Philadelphia Times. Your newspaper editor has asked you to write an article about the song being performed that day. Your article needs to tell us about Sousa's life and the story behind the song. It is the first performance of the song, so make sure your article includes your thoughts about the music and how the audience reacts to what is seen and heard that day.

Depending on the student's age group, essays may be 300 to 1,000 words. All grade five, six, seven and eight students in a public, private or parochial school, or those who are home schooled, are eligible to participate. One essay at each grade level will be selected as the Signal Hill Chapter winner. All winners will be recognized at a DAR Youth Awards event, hosted by the Signal Hill Chapter in early 2024. Winners will go forward in competition with the potential for a national award. Essays must be submitted by Friday, Nov. 10, 2023.

For information about the essay contest and its requirements, contact Signal Hill Historian Kat Nosal, via email at [email protected].

The Signal Hill Chapter, NSDAR, was chartered 50 years ago in Barrington, in 1972. NSDAR is a volunteer women's service organization headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Due to fund-raising efforts throughout the year, the chapter contributes financially to several 501 (c) (3) organizations whose missions support that of NSDAR.

NSDAR provides more than $1.5 million in scholarships annually. It is the largest group of participants in support of Wreaths Across America. Through its various programs and initiatives, NSDAR strives to increase the awareness of men and women who achieved American independence, including those of diverse backgrounds.

Since its founding in 1890, over one million women have joined both nationally and around the world. Membership in NSDAR is open to any woman, aged 18 and over, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution.

For information about the Barrington-based chapter, visit: signalhilldar.com .

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Learn how DAR members selflessly and tirelessly dedicated themselves to the war relief effort of World War I

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Richard and Elizabeth Dean Scholarship

The Richard and Elizabeth Dean Scholarship awards two scholarships in the preferred amount of $5,000 each year for up to four consecutive years to graduating high school students. Scholarship recipients will pursue an undergraduate degree in American Studies at an accredited institution in the United States. The concentrated area of study may include American history, government, literature, art history, music or culture. The selection process shall be based on academic merit with an initial minimum GPA of 4.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent GPA on the scale used by the applicable education institution. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25 based on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent GPA on the scaled used by the applicable educational institution.

This scholarship is renewable only after review and approval of the annual official transcript. Renewal transcript must be submitted to the Office of the Reporter General by July 1 of the year of renewal or the scholarship is forfeited.

Questions? Contact the National Vice Chair for the RIchard and Elizabeth Dean Scholarship: [email protected] .

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DAR members selflessly dedicated themselves to the war relief effort of World War I