Every year, my office celebrates Hispanic Heritage month by inviting students from Southwestern Connecticut to participate in an essay contest detailing how a Hispanic/Latino leader has inspired them. I hope you will consider joining this year and I look forward to reading your submissions!

Hispanic Heritage Month Essay Contest Details:

Eligibility Criteria: All students enrolled in elementary, middle, or high school in Connecticut's Fourth Congressional District are eligible to participate.

Topic: Students should reflect upon a Hispanic or Latino individual who has inspired them and helped shape their aspirations. The essay should also include an overview of the role model’s contributions to the United States and the significance of their legacy to American history.

Word Limit:

Elementary School (Grades K-5): Between 75-150 words.

Middle School (Grades 6-8): No more than 300 words.

High School (Grades 9-12): No more than 600 words.

*Students may submit photographs with their essays*

**Please note: all essays should include a parent/guardian name, home address, email address, and phone number as well as the student’s name, grade, and school name.**

Deadline: All submissions must be received by Friday, October 10, 2025; please email submissions to Christine.Cornielle@mail.house.gov.

Results: One (1) winner will be selected from each grade range by October 15, 2025 and will be notified of their selection via email. Winners will receive a Congressional Commendation and have their essays displayed in Congressman Himes’ District Office and highlighted on social media.  

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Congratulations to our 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Essay winners Frank, Benjamin, and Nathaly! Read their winning essays below:
Elementary School Category:
Thomas Hooker School, Bridgeport
Middle School Category:
Saint Mary School, Ridgefield
High School Category
Kolbe-Cathedral High School, Bridgeport
Thank you to every student who shared a story about how Hispanic icons have impacted them and their community.
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Cada año, espero celebrar el mes de la Herencia Hispana involucrando a los jóvenes estadounidenses en una conversación sobre la diversidad y los valores que hacen que nuestra comunidad sea especial. Leer las historias compartidas por estudiantes de todo el suroeste de Connecticut sobre íconos hispanos a quienes admiran siempre es inspirador.
¡Felicitaciones a nuestras ganadoras de 2024 Frank, Benjamin, e Nathaly! Lea sus ensayos ganadores a continuación:
Elementary School Category:
Thomas Hooker School, Bridgeport
Middle School Category:
Saint Mary School, Ridgefield
High School Category:
Kolbe-Cathedral High School, Bridgeport
Gracias a cada estudiante que compartió una historia sobre cómo los íconos hispanos los han impactado a ellos y a su comunidad.