Gabrielle Lewis, a current 12th grader, received a prestigious award from the 2016 Scholastic Arts and Writing Awards last spring, specifically earning a National Gold Medal for her poem, “To be White, to be Normal.” Gabrielle accepted the award at Carnegie Hall in New York City, with the top 1% of students receiving this award out of 320,000 entries from grades 7-12th. We are so proud of Gabrielle’s enthusiasm, drive, and natural talent for writing. Way to go Gabrielle!
Below is the letter she received:
Dear Gabrielle,
Congratulations! The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers is delighted to inform you that you have earned a National Medal in the 2016 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
Work Title: To be White, to be Normal
Awards (Category): Gold Medal (Poetry)
Educator: Martha MacFarland
Since 1923, the Awards have recognized teenagers from across the country. By receiving a Scholastic Art & Writing Awards National Medal, you join a legacy of celebrated authors and artists including Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, Truman Capote, Richard Avedon, Robert Redford, Lena Dunham, and the renowned filmmaker who will receive our Alumni Achievement Award this year, Ken Burns. Nearly 320,000 works of art and writing were submitted by students in grades 7–12 this year. Receiving a National Medal places you within the top 1% of all submissions!
What's Next? You and two guests are invited to National Events in New York City on June 1–June 3! The National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall will be held on Thursday, June 2. Gold Medalists, American Visions and Voices Medalists, Silver Medals with Distinction recipients, or Sponsored Awards recipients are guaranteed to receive tickets to the National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall. It’s very important that you log into your account at artandwriting.org/login as soon as possible to:
· Reserve tickets for the National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall
· Fill-out, print, and send your Release Form(s)
· Upload your portrait, video, and audio greeting
· Review the schedule of activities happening during National Events
· Complete the National Medalist Survey
The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, our title sponsor Scholastic Inc., our supporters, and our partners are pleased to honor your accomplishment!