Applicants will write an essay on one of the topics below. Essays should be 400-600 words, single spaced, 12-point font, Times New Roman. Cite all references in the citation style of your choice.

Topic Options:

1. According to research from the Pew Charitable Trusts, it is estimated that in 43% of all couples it's the woman who makes decisions in more areas than the man. By contrast, men make more of the decisions in only about a quarter (26%) of all couples, and about three-in-ten couples (31%) split decision-making responsibilities equally. Despite that fact, women make up just 8.2% of CEO positions of Fortune 500 companies, and currently there are just 9 elected female Governors, the highest state executive level. How do you perceive this disconnect of women as key home decision makers, coupled with the lack of female leadership at the executive level, and what is the way forward for more women leaders?

2. The vision of NFWL is to empower and inspire elected women to become thought leaders who shape America’s future. Write a short essay that describes areas in your life where you demonstrated leadership, overcame obstacles, or empowered and inspired a woman in your life either through your school, social, or family life.

Judging Criteria
In addition to the basics of spelling, grammar, punctuation, and writing style, the judges will be looking for essays with the following criteria:
• Research, insight, and perspective
• Personal inspirational quality
• meaningful personal connection

Questions? Reach out Ayushi Mehta at ayushi@womenlegislators.org


PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR ESSAYS TO AYUSHI@WOMENLEGISLATORS.ORG BY 5PM ET AUGUST 1, 2022.