Zoe Tillman has been recognized by the Henry County Water Authority as the local winner of the 20th annual essay contest sponsored by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District.
A middle school student at Strong Rock Christian School, Tillman penned “Georgia’s Water” which was selected as the best entry from Henry County. More than 500 middle schoolers from a total of 15 counties participated in the contest.
Entries of 300 to 500 words focused on either of two topics: highlighting an essential water career; or illustrating why a clean, abundant water supply is essential to the region, especially during a pandemic.
Each of the county winners received a $100 prize from the Metro Water District. Tillman picked up an additional gift card and other assorted items from the HCWA.
Over the course of the two decades that the Metro Water District has sponsored its essay contest, this outreach activity has challenged thousands of middle school students to think critically about the importance of conservation and protection of water resources in the region, according to Metro Water District Chairman Glenn Page.
“We are so proud of this year’s essay contest participants,” said Page. “Their essays highlight the critical role that water infrastructure and water professionals play within our society, while reiterating the importance of our collective efforts to protect this vital resource.”
The contest is one of many educational outreach initiatives conducted each year by the Metro Water District in partnership with the HCWA.
“We are excited to recognize the Henry County students who took part in this year’s Metro Water District Essay Contest, especially Zoe, as this year’s winner from Henry County,” said HCWA compliance coordinator Lindsey Sanders. “These are critically important topics for our youth to become familiar with, because they are our future water professionals and they are the ones who are going to have to oversee the preservation and protection of our water resources, especially in the Metro Atlanta Region and here in Henry County.”
HCWA general manager Tony V. Carnell, who is a product of Henry County’s public schools, can testify to the career opportunities the water profession can provide local students, as he has advanced from Henry County High School graduate to his current position. He says events like the essay contest are ideal for increasing awareness among local students of the job opportunities at the HCWA and the career paths of future water professionals.
“This essay contest educates students about our role in the community as a water utility and reminds them of the importance of environmental stewardship,” said Carnell. “It’s also advantageous for us to cultivate the next generation of informed and engaged water customers and water professionals.”
