Senate Ceremonial Celebration

An important and exciting opportunity has become available for the young people in Pennsylvania’s 25th Senatorial District. On Tuesday May 5, 2026, the Pennsylvania State Senate will be participating in a Ceremonial Celebration at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and we are honored to partner with America250PA to invite one student and their parent or guardian from each Senate district to take part in this historic occasion.

The 25th District is blessed to be home to so many motivated and civically involved students, including those in organizations such as Youth in Government, Future Farmers of America, and 4‑H. These groups, along with many other student activities across the district, foster leadership, public service, and an understanding of government. High school students in 9-12 grades who may have an interest in government or civic engagement like those noted above are encouraged to apply to be part of this historic ceremony.

Because we anticipate a significant number of students will apply to be considered for this honor, I will be asking each student to write an essay to help a panel select a winner.

Essay Theme:

“What was unique to the general character of The Founders at the time of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States that differentiates them from those at the formation of any other nation?”

Essay Requirements:

Essay is due no later than April 1, 2026, 12:00 a.m.
Maximum Length: 300 words
May include cited sources (optional)
Should reflect your own thoughts and perspective. While the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for research is acceptable, AI may not be used to write or compose any part of the essay.

Travel Stipend:

A travel stipend will be provided by America250PA. Funds may be used to offset travel, meals, lodging, or related expenses, provided the student attends the program. Stipends will be issued after the event to confirm attendance and will be made payable to the parent or guardian, not the student.
Stipend amounts are based on distance from the National Constitution Center:
- Within 25 miles — $0
- 26–50 miles — $50
- 51–100 miles — $75
- 101–175 miles — $125
- 176–225 miles — $150
- 226+ miles – $200

This is a rare and meaningful opportunity to represent the 25^th Senatorial District at a once‑in‑a‑generation commemoration of America’s founding. I hope you will consider participating and share your essays with me.

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What was unique to the general character of The Founders at the time of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States that differentiates them from those at the formation of any other nation?(Required)
Max. file size: 98 MB.

Acknowledgment(Required)
This work reflects my own thoughts and perspective. I further state that no artificial intelligence was used for the writing of this essay.
Participation(Required)
By submitting this essay, I am also stating that I am able and available to participate in the trip to Philadelphia on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
Consent(Required)
I understand, by submitting my essay, I am allowing Senator Dush to keep it and to publish it in any manner via digital copy, hard or physical copy on his official Facebook page, digital weekly newsletters or his annual district-wide newsletter.
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