The English Honors Program is sponsoring an essay writing contest this spring, with $400 of award money. Students who have taken an upper division English class in the 2000-2001 academic year are eligible for the contest.
The essay contest began last spring, thanks to an endowment by long-time English Honors Director Joseph Riley. Unfortunately, Riley died just before the awards ceremony last year.
"Riley worked in the English Department for over 40 years, longer than any other faculty member in the history of the department," said Dr. Catherine Martin, English Honors Program director.
This year, the contest is commemorative of the contributions Riley made to The University of Memphis, and more money is being awarded. The first prize essay will receive $250, second prize, $100 and third prize, $50.
Martin suggests students enter an essay that received at least an A- grade in their English class. Only one essay may be entered per student.
To submit an essay for the contest, students should send them to Martin. Essays can be left at her office in Patterson Hall, room 449, her mailbox in the Patterson mailroom (68) or faxed to the English office at 678-2226.
The deadline for the contest is April 2.
