In late August, Rotarians, educators, and supporters from across Georgia gathered at the Emory Conference Center in Atlanta—and online—for the annual Teacher & Rotarian Workshop Luncheon. The event launched the 2025–26 Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest.

A character-building, values-based writing program that builds partnership between teachers, who guide students through the essay-writing process, and Rotary Clubs, which sponsor contests in their local schools and communities, reaches more than 33,000 students each year. Together, we give students an opportunity to reflect on the life lessons that shape who they are—and who they want to become.

Highlights of the luncheon included remarks from Adam Throne, English teacher at North Springs High School a partner school of the Rotary Club of Sandy Springs. Adam shared how the contest both aligns with Georgia’s ELA standards and empowers students to discover their voice. Guests were also moved by Alphonsa Joby, last year’s state winner from Denmark High School, who read her award-winning essay and reminded attendees of the contest’s lasting impact.

Selena Blankenship, Board Member and Rotarian from the Rotary Club of Classic City Athens, offered insights from her dual perspective as a Rotarian and retired educator. She emphasized that the contest not only supports Rotary’s mission of service but also with teachers a powerful way to understand their students more deeply - building empathy, strengthening relationships, and creating classroom connections that no other assignment provides.

Last year, 65 Rotary Clubs and 65 schools across Georgia participated. Now is the time for returning sponsors to recommit and reconnect with partner schools, and for new clubs to get involved. Rotary Clubs serve as sponsors and honor students for their work, and Rotarians serve as judges selecting the winning essays - ensuring student voices are heard and recognized.

To learn more about how your club can participate, visit georgialawsoflife.org/why-rotary or contact Carol Gray Walker, Executive Director, at carol@georgialawsoflife.org

The 2025 Founders Celebration

Ready to Mingle & Sip in Style?  The 2025 Founders Celebration is the party you won’t want to miss!

Enjoy cocktails, delicious bites, and an evening of fun—all while supporting the Georgia Laws of Life Essay Contest and the students whose voices inspire us.

There’s still time to join us for the celebration on Thursday, October 9—an inspiring evening that honors students, teachers, and the supporters who make this work possible. Individual tickets are just $75, and sponsorship opportunities remain open for businesses that want to stand alongside Georgia’s Bridge Builders of tomorrow. We are especially grateful to our Rotary partners—Roswell Rotary Club, Midtown Atlanta Rotary Club, and the North Metro Rotary Council—for stepping up as early sponsors of this year’s celebration.

Reserve your tickets or sponsorship today at georgialawsoflife.org/events.