JACKSON, Tenn. — Jan. 12, 2021 — Sarah Adams of Olive Branch, Mississippi, received first-place honors in Union University’s School of Theology and Missions High School Essay Contest for 2020.
Adams received a $1,000 scholarship to Union and will have her essay published, along with nine other student essays, in a “Future Scholars” volume. All 10 of the published students will be invited to a book launch dinner on Feb. 25.
Lyla Dietz of Shawnee Mission, Kansas, received second place and a $500 scholarship, and Emma Sanborn of Cottontown, Tennessee, ranked third with a $250 scholarship.
“We’re delighted that so many students and their teachers were interested in this year’s contest,” said Ray Van Neste, dean for Union’s School of Theology and Missions. “We hope that the essays will encourage biblical and theological reflection among high school students. We’re looking for students who are seriously considering their faith and how it connects to the world.”
Other high school students whose essays will be published include Shane Tanner of Dover, Tennessee; William Bell of Memphis, Tennessee; Halle McNaught of Nixa, Missouri; Anna Parker of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Zoe Leatherwood of Arlington, Tennessee; Emerson Leyhue of Martin, Tennessee; and Emily Hall of Somerset, Kentucky.