Gould Students Sweep Prestigious Camden Conference Essay Competition

Recently graduated seniors — Ingrid Janicki, Meredith McMillan, and Will Brown — were awarded first, second, and third place respectively, distinguishing themselves among student writers across the state. The Bill Taylor Award, named for journalist and civic leader Bill Taylor, honors outstanding essays on global affairs and democracy, inspired by themes from the Camden Conference.

This year’s judges praised the Gould students’ work as “models of the craft,” noting that each piece demonstrated “strong analytical depth, original thought, and a clear commitment to civic understanding.” Several essays made direct connections to Camden Conference speakers and reflected a rare level of intellectual maturity.

Janicki’s winning essay, “Peace to the People: Election Denialism and the Fate of Fragile Democracies,” examined the global erosion of trust in electoral systems. McMillan’s “The Independence of the Judiciary” offered a timely and principled analysis of the United States Supreme Court’s role in maintaining democratic legitimacy. Brown’s “Broadcasting Democracy” explored how media shapes public discourse and democratic resilience in a volatile information age.

“Working with the students on this project was a true joy,” said Adam Leff, Chair of the World Languages Department and Director of Civic Engagement. “I’ve seen firsthand their ability to parse complex ideas and synthesize information with clarity and precision. In this work, all three students brought that same intellectual rigor, but also a rare depth of civic responsibility and integrity. They asked tough questions, challenged assumptions, and embraced writing as a meaningful act of leadership. They represent the kind of thoughtful, engaged learners we’re proud to see thrive at Gould.”

For Gould, the sweep represents more than academic achievement and intrinsic mentorship by the school’s History Department, it helps deliver a reflection of the strong culture and community that Gould seeks to provide.

“This moment affirms what we strive for every day, both inside and outside of the classroom — authentic scholarship driven by curiosity, empathy, and depth,” said teacher and Assistant Head of School, Brad Clarke. “Ingrid, Meredith, and Will embraced complex issues and brought their own perspectives to bear with thoughtfulness and creativity.”

Now in its 37th year, the Bill Taylor Essay Contest invites students to contemplate and confront the pressing issues of our time — government accountability, global cooperation, civic trust — and to do so with rigor and responsibility.  For Gould Academy, this recognition is a testament to the values that shape the school’s mission.

Head of School Tao Smith underscored the larger meaning behind the accomplishment.

“Gould’s purpose is not only to prepare students for college,  it’s to prepare them for lives of meaning, impact, and purpose,” said Smith. “When young people write with this level of clarity, conviction, and global awareness — authentic emotional maturity — it evokes such profound respect and hope. These students didn’t just write award-winning essays, they stepped into their roles as thoughtful citizens and leaders.”

In a moment where democratic ideals are being tested around the world, these Gould students remind us of what is possible when education is rooted in purpose, and when young voices are given the space to rise.