University Park, IL,
15
March
2023
|
09:41 AM
America/Chicago

Student Wins Award for Essay on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“It is your visionary dreams and optimistic beliefs for equality in America that brings me hope and confidence. So, Dr. King. I would like to end this letter with the same words with which I began: thank you.”

David Harper, Winner, 2023 Dr. King Essay Contest
551GSUMLKBreakfast David Harper

“It is your visionary dreams and optimistic beliefs for equality in America that too brings me hope and confidence in the equality of our country. So, Dr. King. I would like to end this letter with the same words with which I began: thank you.”

These words are from an essay written by David Harper, a business and applied science major student at Governors State University (GSU) anticipated to graduate this spring. Within the piece, Harper wrote what he would say to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. if given the chance to speak to him.

Harper presented his essay at a recent event celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which included attending speakers, singers, and students. He also won first place in an essay contest that awarded him $250, which he plans to use towards his continued journey in human resources (HR). GSU President Cheryl Green  funded all three cash prizes.

“Winning that award showed me I can still contribute to my university even though I’m not on campus. I felt honored to win the award, especially by Dr. Green," said Harper.

Harper started at GSU in 2021 after earning an associate degree as part of Dual Degree Program (DDP) at Joliet Junior College. An associate degree was all he wanted, though his plans changed when GSU DDP advisors started reaching out to him. 

“GSU stood out to me as a seamless transition to a bachelor’s degree. All the courses fit perfect. It was the perfect program for me. It was all online and I knew I wanted to work part time and I could save money,” said Harper.

Right now, Harper is a HR assistant with a daycare facility in Hyde Park and has been working there since July. His goal is to be a talent acquisition manager to help businesses and job seekers.