The Center for Citizenship and Constitutional Government will award the Publius Prize for Undergraduate Writing on Public Affairs for the second year in a row.
A $250 prize will be awarded to two Notre Dame undergraduates for essays published during 2022-23 academic year that refine and enlarge the public’s views. The prize reflects and furthers the Center’s mission of cultivating thoughtful and educated students who assume the responsibilities of citizenship.
“The effect of [representation] is, on the one hand, to refine and enlarge the public views, by passing them through the medium of a chosen body of citizens, whose wisdom may best discern the true interest of their country, and whose patriotism and love of justice will be least likely to sacrifice it to temporary or partial considerations. Under such a regulation, it may well happen that the public voice, pronounced by the representatives of the people, will be more consonant to the public good than if pronounced by the people themselves, convened for the purpose.” – Federalist 10 (1787)
There will be two categories for writing submissions, each with a $250 prize. Pieces must have been published within the 2022-2023 academic year.
The first category includes any articles or essays published in print or online publications affiliated with the University of Notre Dame. The second category includes non-Notre Dame outlets. Papers from undergraduate courses will not be considered. The authors of the prize-winning essays will be awarded $250 each, and the winning essays will be published on the Center’s website.
How to apply for the Publius Prize:
Complete this form by Monday, May 1, 2023 to apply. Winners will be notified by May 5, 2023. Questions can be directed to Soren Grefenstette (sorengref@nd.edu).