William O. Douglas Essay Contest
High School Senior
Washington
Essay Required
Scholarship Description
Justice William O. Douglas (1898–1980), born and raised in Yakima, was the longest-serving justice in U.S. Supreme Court history. A tireless advocate for civil liberties, environmental conservation, and judicial independence, Douglas shaped some of the most critical legal conversations of the 20th century.
To honor his profound legacy, the Yakima Valley Museum proudly presents the Justice William O. Douglas Essay Contest—an annual opportunity for students to explore themes rooted in his life’s work and express their own vision for a just and sustainable future.
Who Can Enter:
High School Division: Open to students in grades 9–12 attending public, private, parochial, or homeschool within Educational Service District 105 (includes graduating seniors of 2025).
College Division: Open to students currently enrolled at: Whitman College, Heritage University, Yakima Valley College, Douglas Honors College at Central Washington University, and Pacific Northwest University
1st Place – $1,500
2nd Place – $1,000
3rd Place – $500
To honor his profound legacy, the Yakima Valley Museum proudly presents the Justice William O. Douglas Essay Contest—an annual opportunity for students to explore themes rooted in his life’s work and express their own vision for a just and sustainable future.
Who Can Enter:
High School Division: Open to students in grades 9–12 attending public, private, parochial, or homeschool within Educational Service District 105 (includes graduating seniors of 2025).
College Division: Open to students currently enrolled at: Whitman College, Heritage University, Yakima Valley College, Douglas Honors College at Central Washington University, and Pacific Northwest University
1st Place – $1,500
2nd Place – $1,000
3rd Place – $500
High School Senior
Washington
Essay Required
