What is the history of this contest?
The Women Making History Eighth-grade Essay contest was created in 1992 by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Work Force Recognition and continued until 2003. In 2007, the Governor’s Office for Women’s Initiatives and Outreach (GOWIO) re-established the contest.
Why hold the essay contest in March?
March is National Women’s History Month, so this provides an opportunity for all students to celebrate, learn and write about the contributions and accomplishments of women.
Who can enter the contest? Is this contest for girls only?
All eighth-grade students in Ohio – girls and boys – are welcome and encouraged to enter the contest.
Can I write about any woman?
Yes, essays can be written about any woman (living or deceased) who has made-or is making -significant accomplishments in one of the five essay categories.
Can I submit essays in more than one category or more than one essay in a single category?
No, only one essay may be submitted per person.
Who scores the essays?
Essays are scored by the Ohio Interagency Council on Women and Girls and other state agency employees who volunteer to serve as scorers.
How many students participated last year?
Nearly 300 essays were submitted in 2008.
When is the deadline to submit my essay?
All essays must be received by Friday, April 24, 2009.
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
Many questions can be answered by reading the 2009 submission kit. If you read the submission kit and still have questions, please e-mail
women.policy@governor.ohio.gov or call 614.466.3555.
How many winners will be chosen?
One winning essay and two honorable-mention essays will be selected in each category.
How are winners awarded?
- Lunch with the first lady of Ohio-- Frances Strickland
- Participate in Women in State Government Day
- Essay posted on the GOWIO Web site
- Award for your school
What is Women in State government day?
A day of learning and recognition in Columbus for students whose have been selected for an award. Activities include: touring the Statehouse, shadowing a woman in state government and attending lunch with the first lady at the governor’s residence.