![Senior Lauren Birkle Wins National Essay Contest!]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1714579075/mcauley/wegjvajekxcjdiq1gkt0/IMG_4738_Original.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1714579075/mcauley/wegjvajekxcjdiq1gkt0/IMG_4738_Original.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1714579075/mcauley/wegjvajekxcjdiq1gkt0/IMG_4738_Original.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1714579075/mcauley/wegjvajekxcjdiq1gkt0/IMG_4738_Original.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1714579075/mcauley/wegjvajekxcjdiq1gkt0/IMG_4738_Original.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1714579075/mcauley/wegjvajekxcjdiq1gkt0/IMG_4738_Original.jpg","width":2200}])
Congratulations to senior Lauren Birkle, winner of Founding Forward's National Youth Essay Contest! Lauren's essay answered the questions, "Why are responsible citizens important to our system of government? What can I do to develop the necessary traits to become one and encourage others to do so as well?" As the winner, Lauren received a George Washington medal and certificate, and Mercy McAuley Social Studies teacher Mrs. Lisa Heiert was on hand to congratulate her! Lauren also recently participated in Founding Forward's Spirit of America Youth Leadership conference at Valley Forge. Way to go, Lauren!