Faith, Freedom, and Excellence: PC Students Recognized in Patriot’s Pen Contest

We’re proud to announce that two PC middle school students earned first and second place in the 2025-2026 Patriot’s Pen Contest, sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) branches across the nation!

Keeghan Hardin (7th grade) received first place, and Akasha Maharaj (8th grade) earned second place, receiving the “Youth Essay Award Citation” at the Gresham United VFW Post 180. The essay theme challenged students to reflect on: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

Keeghan shared that her English teacher, Mrs. Lisa Contreras, first introduced the opportunity to her class. After hearing about the contest again at the Gresham Farmers Market, she decided to give it a try — and it paid off! As a first-place winner, she received prize money and advanced to the district level.

Here’s an excerpt from Keeghan’s winning essay, “I am truly blessed that God chose me to be a part of a country that allows anyone to go to school, vote, serve in the military, and be elected to office… I will continue to show my patriotism by striving to be the best young adult and adult, taking advantage of all the opportunities that are available to me as a young citizen in America.”

Akasha was inspired to step outside her comfort zone after seeing the scholarship promoted on YouTube. In her opening paragraph, she wrote, “How I show patriotism is by respecting and following the right laws and using my rights properly. I make sure not to take advantage of the amazing opportunities our country gives us to succeed today and use my freedom in the best way possible.” She also moved on to the district competiton level and placed 2nd receiving the “Youth Essay Certificate of Merit.”

Congratulations, ladies, on your outstanding achievement! We are so proud of your hard work, courage, and thoughtful reflection.