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UCSD JOINS WITH COMMUNITY IN SPONSORING CESAR CHAVEZ ESSAY CONTEST FOR STUDENTS; ENTRY DEADLINE MARCH 1

The University of California, San Diego is joining with the San Diego Cesar E. Chavez Commemoration Committee in sponsoring the third annual Cesar E. Chavez   Essay Contest for students in San Diego County to honor the life and achievements of the late civil rights and labor leader.

The contest, organized by UCSD’s Early Academic Outreach Program  (EAOP), is open to students in grades 9 through 12 and will be part of a wide range of community celebrations sponsored by the university and the commemoration committee recognizing the Cesar E. Chavez state holiday.

Dedicated to non-violence, Chavez founded and led the first successful farm workers union in American history and was a principal figure in the Chicano Civil Rights Movement. He died in 1993.  His birthday, March 31, has been designated a state holiday.

The deadline for essay submissions is March 1. Students of all ethnic backgrounds   are encouraged to enter by composing their essays on the following theme: Justice, Sacrifice and Courage -- How Have the Ideals of Cesar E. Chavez Motivated You in Achieving Your Goals in Education?

Students may obtain an entry application and contest guidelines from their school principal’s office or guidance counselor, or by calling the EAOP office at UCSD, (858) 534-4250. (An essay application must accompany all entries.)

Entries must be 500 words in length (or limited to two pages) and typewritten.  Essays should be in English, except for students currently in English Language Proficiency classes.

Winners will be notified on March 22, 2002. The three top essay authors will receive a computer, and runners-up will be awarded school savings bonds.

Winning students will also be invited to attend the Cesar E. Chavez Commemoration Breakfast on April 5 to be recognized by UCSD Chancellor Robert Dynes, the Chavez Commemoration Committee, and other officials and guests.

Submit completed applications and essays to:
Luisa Ortega, Academic Outreach Counselor, UCSD Early Academic
Outreach Program, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0305, or email lortega@sea.ucsd.edu for more information.