Deadline for ESCC Writing Contest “Let Your Voice Be Heard”

In early 2020, ESCC President Dr. James Shaeffer challenged us to think about our purpose—our reasons—for doing what we do at ESCC. According to Dr. Shaeffer, who retired in 2025, his “YES!! is inclusive at ESCC because we are open to all, and our student body represents the diversity of the Eastern Shore.  YES!! is inclusive in the programs we offer for transfer students, short-term workforce programs, and full degrees.  We are also inclusive in the span of ages we serve.  Finally, we strive for inclusivity in serving the needs of the community throughout Your Eastern Shore.”

Are you ready to share your unique perspective and creativity regarding our campus culture? Enter the ESCC Writing Contest and showcase your talent in poetry, short fiction, or essay writing!

This inaugural contest, on behalf of our former president Dr. James Shaeffer and his YES! Vision for Eastern Shore Community College, invites you to reflect on identity, community, and personal growth at ESCC. Choose one of the following prompts to craft a compelling piece:

1.      Your YES! Belief Statement: What is a belief that drives you forward? Write a poem, short story, or essay that embodies your YES!—your personal philosophy, motivation, or guiding principle.

2.     A Lesson in Inclusivity: Describe a moment on campus when you learned about inclusivity. How did this experience shape your perspective, challenge you, or inspire you to foster a more welcoming environment?

3.     Being an ESCC Student: What does it truly mean to be a student at ESCC? Explain in detail the values, experiences, and culture that define(d) or continues to define your journey at the college.

•        Open to all current ESCC students

•        ONE ENTRY  per student

•        Poetry (open and closed forms allowed): Up to two pages

•        Short Stories & Essays: 750–1,500 words

•        Deadline: April 21st

•        Submit your entry to CDuffman@es.vccs.edu (Christina Duffman)

Winning entries will be featured on our college’s Facebook page and published in an upcoming

issue of the Shore First.  Our top two winners will receive $250 each, or if there is one winner, $500. Winner(s) will be announced at commencement on May 14th.

Let your voice be heard—tell your story, share your vision, and inspire others through your words!