Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence Student Author Competition

Writing Prompt

Have you ever felt like, or identified with a character in a book? Which one? Why?

This competition is open to all Lousiana school students in grades 3-12.

Essays must address the topic, and be no more than 500 words.

First, second, and third place winners for elementary, middle, and high school divisions are presented cash awards on January 19, 2023 at 6 p.m. at the Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence program held at the Manship Theatre, 100 Lafayette Street, Baton Rouge.

Deadline for submissions: Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 5:00pm

Ways to submit

- Electronic submissions (preferred) should be sent to gainesaward@braf.org. Submissions must include student's full name, school, grade, and telephone number.

- Paper submissions should be mailed to the address below.

Baton Rouge Area Foundation

100 North Street, Suite 900

Baton Rouge, La 70802

Contact Travis Hutchins for more information at gainesaward@braf.org or 225-387-6126.