March 19, 2008

APA Announces Winners of High School Essay Contest

Jingkang Gao from Slingerlands, New York, and Caroline Eaton Tracey from Denver, Coloradio, tied for the top prize in the annual contest.

Gao's essay, "Creating a Green Neighborhood in the Southern Region of Albany, New York," focused on adding sustainable elements into the community's existing Capital South Plan, including promoting walkable neighborhoods, incorporating energy efficient features, and using permeable materials.

Tracey's essay, "A Sustainable Future for Alamo Placita," detailed building upon Denver's existing Greenprint Denver sustainability plan with native plants, walkable corridors, and loans to help upgrade historic homes with energy efficient features.

The two overall winners were selected from more than 145 submissions. Both will receive a $5,000 scholarship to the university or college of their choice. Additionally, both may attend an APA National Planning Conference for free.

Ten students received honorable mentions for their essays and each will receive a $100 gift certificate to APA's Planningbooks.com store. Students receiving honorable mentions are:

Christopher Britton of Chula Vista, California
Gabriel Filer of Middletown, Connecticut
Cady Fontana of Ithaca, New York
Jeannette Franziska Greven of Columbus, Indiana
Sue Gallardo of San Diego, Califfornia
Charles Gyer of Houma, Louisiana
Dave Myers of Rockwall, Texas
Alyssa Pagani of Broomall, Pennsylvania
Stephany Remirez of San Diego, California
Antwanette Wiley of San Diego, California

"These students envisioned how to build upon current planning efforts within their communities for creating a more sustainable future," said Carolyn Torma, director of education at the American Planning Association. 

The essays were judged by a panel of planning and education professionals on research and analysis, creativity and quality of the development proposal, and writing quality and organization.

APA's High School Essay Contest was open to junior and senior students during the 2007-2008 academic year. Students were asked to create a green and environmentally friendly plan for their neighborhood. The subject of the next essay contest will be announced in the fall.

Click here for more details about the contest.

Contact  
Roberta Rewers, APA, 312-786-6395; rrewers@planning.org