2025 Maurice R. Hilleman Essay Contest
Dr. Maurice R. Hilleman was a virologist who developed more than half of the vaccines that young children receive today. His work, credited with saving 8 million lives every year, was cutting edge. Even though not everyone will be a scientist like Dr. Hilleman, everyone should understand how science works because the resulting discoveries and advancements shape daily life. In his honour, the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia hosts an essay contest and invites students from grades 6-12 to submit a 500 -1000 word entry by February 6th, 2025. Kids Boost Immunity is a proud Canadian partner for the contest, and we hope to see some KBI students take home the top prize! The essay topic is:
"Not everyone will be a prolific scientist like Dr. Hilleman, but all citizens need to understand how science works. Use an example to discuss why this understanding is important given the role of science and technology in society today."
The essay can be written in English or French, and judges will consider the student's age and writing level in addition to the content of the essay when reviewing submissions. The first-place winner will receive US$500, and the second-place winner will receive US$250. First and second place will be awarded in the high school and middle school categories. In addition to the cash reward, winners will be recognized at a virtual award event hosted by vaccine inventor and researcher Dr. Paul Offit.
Who?
Students in grades 6 to 12* living in the United States (including District of Columbia and U.S. Territories) or Canada and enrolled in a public, private, online, religious or charter school or who attend a home school program can participate. First and second place will be awarded in the high school and middle school categories in each country. (Judging will take into consideration author’s age, and winners will be named by country.)
*Grades 6 to 11 in Quebec
What?
Learn about Dr. Hilleman, and then write a 500- to 1000-word essay that responds to the prompt: “Not everyone will be a prolific scientist like Dr. Hilleman, but all citizens need to understand how science works. Use an example to discuss why this understanding is important given the role of science and technology in society today.” Essay should be written in English for U.S. submissions and English or French for Canadian submissions using complete sentences and appropriate grammar. One entry per person. See the “Official Rules” here at HillemanFilm.com.
How?
Review the official rules and get an entry form at HillemanFilm.com. Completed entries must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time, February 6th, 2025, or postmarked by February 6 if mailed. Submissions that are incomplete, do not address the prompt, do not follow contest rules, or are not received by this time will not be considered.
Bonus!
Teacher named in winning students’ entries will receive a signed copy of a book written by Paul A. Offit, MD, and a one-year complimentary membership to the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT), graciously provided by NABT.