Rotarians and Teachers Kick Off the 2025–26 Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest
On Friday, August 22, Rotarians, educators, and supporters from across Georgia gathered at the Emory Conference Center in Atlanta—and online—for the annual Teacher & Rotarian Workshop Luncheon. The event launched the 2025–26 Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest.
This character-building, values-based writing program pairs teachers, who guide students through the essay process, with Rotary clubs that partner with local schools. Each year more than 33,000 students participate, reflecting on the life lessons that shape who they are and who they want to become.
Highlights of the luncheon included remarks from Adam Throne, English teacher at North Springs High School, a school partner of the Rotary Club of Sandy Springs. Adam shared how the contest not only aligns with Georgia’s ELA standards but also empowers students to discover their voice. Guests also heard from Alphonsa Joby, last year’s state winner from Denmark High School, who read her award-winning essay and reminded attendees of the contest’s lasting impact.
Selena Blankenship, Rotarian and Board Member from the Rotary Club of Classic City Athens, spoke from her dual perspective as a Rotarian and retired educator. She emphasized that the contest supports Rotary’s mission of service while giving teachers a powerful way to understand their students more deeply—building empathy, strengthening relationships, and creating connections no other assignment provides.
Last year, more than 65 Rotary clubs and 65 schools across Georgia partnered in the contest. For District 6920, this year marks a special step forward: Turner County High School has registered to participate for the first time, with the Rotary Club of Ashburn as its school partner.
“Rotary clubs are looking for meaningful projects that truly engage young people,” said Carol Gray Walker, Executive Director of Georgia Laws of Life. “This contest is ready to implement, aligns with Georgia’s ELA standards, and changes lives. Our team is happy to visit your club to share how easy it is to become a school partner and get started this year.”
Now is the time for returning club partners to recommit and for new clubs to explore partnering with a school. Beginning in February, Rotarians from partnering clubs are also invited to serve as essay judges for the statewide contest, selecting the winning essays. Many clubs also host spring celebrations, inviting student winners, their parents, and teachers to a Rotary meeting—a favorite tradition that brings the contest full circle.
To learn more about how your club can become a school partner, visit georgialawsoflife.org/why-rotary or contact Carol Gray Walker, Executive Director, at carol@georgialawsoflife.org.