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SPeAKWRITE SHOWCASE

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Ask a question. Tell a story. Solve a problem. Raise awareness. Research. Explore. Connect. We want to celebrate how you are helping tell Appalachia’s story.

The Writing Appalachia Contest invites brief scholarly essays, short creative works, editorials, how-to manuals, engaging research reports, science blogs, or any other written text that focuses on Appalachia in some way. This contest is open to current WVU undergraduate students. We are  especially interested in submissions that speak to your sense of purpose as a Mountaineer. 

When is the contest held?

The Writing Appalachia Contest is held each fall during Mountaineer Week. Announcements are made through the SpeakWrite and Mountaineer Week websites and social media. Follow us to ensure you don't miss out!

Who can enter and how do I submit my entry?

The contest is open to current WVU undergraduate students. When the contest opens, the submission form can be accessed by using your WVU Mix email address. Check the Mountaineer Week website for the submission prompt and details at mountaineerweek.wvu.edu.


Appalachian Scholars Contest - Winning Submissions

The following students have been honored for their excellent writing about Appalachia.

2025 Winner

Hope Myers

"New Deal, Old Divisions"

Read Submission: Hope Myers
2025 Winner
2023 Winner
2022 Winner
2022 Winner

Kevin Spark

"A Way Appalachia Shapes Individuals"

Read Submission: Kevin Spark, 2022 Winner
Fall 2021 Winner
Spring 2021 Winner

Mary Linscheid

"Backbone (West Virginia Tells It Like It Is)" and "Stitches"

Read Submission: Mary Linscheid, Spring 2021 Winner
Spring 2021 Winner

Max Ostrow

"Coming to Terms with Tomato Thievery"

Read Submission: Max Ostrow, Spring 2021 Winner