The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) is proud to partner with the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) on the annual National High School Essay Contest. The contest engages high school students in learning and writing about issues of peace and conflict, encouraging appreciation for diplomacy’s role in building partnerships that can advance peacebuilding and protect national security.

The author of the winning essay earns a scholarship to an educational voyage with Semester at Sea, a visit to Washington, D.C. (including to USIP) and a small cash award.

Learn about the current essay contest theme.

2016 Winner Profile: Dylan Borne

August 5, 2016- Dylan Borne, winner of the American Foreign Service Association National High School Essay Contest, of which the U.S. Institute of Peace is a lead sponsor, addressed a group of Washington officials this week, highlighting the creativity and energy that young people can bring to peacebuilding.