2023 Maurice R. Hilleman Essay Contest
2023 Writing prompt:
Preparedness is an important component of science as demonstrated by Maurice Hilleman when he identified the 1957 influenza pandemic. How is preparedness critical in science today?
French chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur once said, “In the fields of observation, chance favors only the mind which is prepared.” Virologist Maurice R. Hilleman embodied these words throughout his life and career. Dr. Hilleman developed over half of the vaccines that young children receive today, and his work is estimated to save about 8 million lives every year. His ability to recognize opportunities and potential threats was essential to his success. To celebrate Dr. Hilleman’s legacy, students in grades 6 to 12* from the U.S. & Canada have an opportunity to learn about Dr. Hilleman and reflect on the significance of preparedness in science.
*Grades 6 to 11 in Quebec
Thank you to the co-sponsors of the 2023 Maurice R. Hilleman Essay Contest:
Find information about our co-sponsors on their websites:
Public Health Association of BC
Kids Boost Immunity
Frontline Immunity
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, cyber, religious or charter school or who attend a home school program can participate. (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 600-word essay that responds to the prompt: “Preparedness is an important component of science as demonstrated by Maurice Hilleman when he identified the 1957 influenza pandemic. How is preparedness critical in science today?” Essay should be written in English or French using complete sentences and appropriate grammar. One entry per person. See “Official Rules” at HillemanFilm.com for complete details.
3 Winners will each receive:
US$500 cash prize
Winner certificate
Recognition at a virtual award event on Friday, September 29, 2023.
Event will be hosted by Dr. Paul Offit - VEC director, vaccine inventor and Hilleman biographer. The event will also include special guests and student winners reading their essays.
Bonus!
Teacher named in winning entries will receive a signed copy of Pandora’s Lab: Seven Stories of Science Gone Wrong, written by Paul A. Offit, MD, and a 1-year, free membership to the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT), graciously provided by NABT.
