Ethics Essay Contest - Rotary Club of Apple Valley

Rotary George R. Hensel Ethics Essay Contest

The George R. Hensel Ethics Essay Contest invites high school students to explore ethical issues and express their ideas through thoughtful writing. Sponsored by Rotary International District 5300 and administered locally by participating Rotary clubs, this contest encourages students to think critically about ethics, integrity, and service.

The Rotary Club of Apple Valley is proud to participate in this program and support students who demonstrate strong character, clear thinking, and a commitment to ethical leadership.

Who May Participate

Students must meet all of the following criteria to apply at the club level:

Enrolled in grades 9–12
Live in or attend school within Rotary District 5300
Submit an original essay based on the official contest prompt
Meet all submission requirements and deadlines set by the Rotary Club of Apple Valley

How the Contest Works

Students submit their essay to the Rotary Club of Apple Valley.
Essays are reviewed and judged at the club level.
The top club essay(s) advance to the District 5300 level for further judging.
District-level winners receive scholarship awards funded by the George R. Hensel Endowment.

Essay Prompt

How does service to others strengthen a community, and what responsibility do young leaders have in that process?

Students should respond thoughtfully, drawing from personal experience, observation, or reflection.

Essay Submission Requirements

Original student work
Essay must follow all contest guidelines provided by the club
Clear, organized writing with proper grammar and spelling
Uploaded as PDF or DOC format

Scholarships & Recognition

Students whose essays advance beyond the club level may be eligible for district-level scholarships and awards, including:

Cash scholarships for top essays
Recognition at Rotary events
Awards funded through the George R. Hensel Ethics Endowment

Specific scholarship amounts and district-level recognition are determined by District 5300.

Questions or Help

For questions about eligibility, essay guidelines, or submission deadlines, please contact the Rotary Club of Apple Valley.

Essay Contest Application Form

Use the form below to submit your entry for the George R. Hensel Ethics Essay Contest. Make sure all materials are complete before submitting.

Full Name

School Name

Grade Level

Phone

Parent / Guardian Information

Full Name

Phone

Essay Submission

Share your original essay based on the contest guidelines.

Essay Title

Upload Written Essay (PDF or DOC)

Privacy Statement

The Rotary Club of Apple Valley values your privacy. Information submitted through this application is used solely for contest review, judging, and administration. Access to submissions is limited to authorized Rotary Club of Apple Valley members and volunteers involved in the contest process. Information will not be sold, shared, rented, or used for marketing or mailing lists. All submissions are handled responsibly and retained only as long as necessary to administer the contest and meet Rotary record-keeping requirements. By submitting this application, you consent to the use of your information for these purposes only.