The Iowa State Bar Association Young Lawyers Division announced on Apr. 22 the winners of its annual Know Your Constitution program, recognizing high school students across Iowa for their understanding of the U.S. Constitution and their written essays about its meaning and impact.
The program aims to encourage civic engagement among students in grades nine through twelve by having them complete a 50-question open-book quiz and submit an essay on a constitutional topic. The initiative seeks to foster greater knowledge of constitutional principles throughout the state.
Each year, about 100 finalists are chosen—one from each Iowa legislative district—based on combined quiz scores and essay submissions. These students, along with their teachers, are invited to Des Moines for a recognition luncheon where they receive certificates and medals. Finalists also have a chance to win scholarship awards provided by the association.
The top essay winners for 2026 include Arjun Anjugu (Cedar Falls High School), Ben Cadden (BGM High School), Cordell Hoeft (Central Springs High School), Israel Kodiage Jr. (Cedar Falls High School), Megan Kota (Cedar Falls High School), Coraliz Ortiz-Valentin (Waterloo West High School), Amelia Reicks (Maquoketa High School), Derek Samuel (Johnston High School), Sophia Tweeten (Clear Lake High School) and Kara Whitacre (George-Little Rock High School). “These students exemplify the importance of understanding our constitutional framework and the role it plays in our daily lives,” said YLD Know Your Constitution Chair Jefferson Fink. “Their essays reflect a strong commitment to civic learning and thoughtful engagement with foundational legal principles.”
According to the official website, the Iowa Bar Association promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession; honors excellence through awards; supports members serving clients, community, and judicial system; utilizes its headquarters in Des Moines for administrative operations; is governed by a board of 47 elected members from judicial districts; serves over 6,500 lawyers and judges licensed in Iowa; aids legal professionals through resources and education aimed at enhancing practice; advances justice by supporting legislative efforts across the state; and is recognized as the oldest voluntary state bar association in the United States.
A full list of this year’s finalists as well as winning essays can be found at iowabar.org/KnowConstitution.