Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regard to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 26,400 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.4 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000.
The 2025 - 26 Theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
Department 2025-26 Winners are:
Department of Vermont 1st Place Voice of Democracy Winner Charlotte Hourdequin sponsored by Robert L Johnson Post 771, Springfield, Vermont
Charlotte is a sophomore at Hanover High School. She enjoys being active through rowing, swimming, skiing, hiking, running, and being outdoors. She also likes to volunteer, bake, play viola, and spend time with friends. She is involved in her school's council, leader of her class committee, and active in the environmental, Youth in Action, Unified, and Model UN clubs. Charlotte is passionate about helping people and hopes to someday become a doctor.
For Charlotte's winning entry: to read click here, and to hear it, click here
Department of Vermont 2ndPlace Voice of Democracy Winner Seamus Fleming sponsored by Mackenzie-Webster Post 790, East Barre Vermont
Seamus is a 17-year-old junior at Oxbow High School. He is very interested in the natural world, history, and geography. His activities include Harvard Model Congress, National Honor Society, numerous horal festivals, and indoor track. During the summer, he volunteers for the Vermont Institute of Natural Science as a junior counselor for kids' nature camps. He is currently a participant in Dartmouth's Community High School Program which allow qualified high school students to take college courses for credit at Dartmouth College. In his free time, he enjoys birdwatching, exploring new places, and listening to music of all kinds.
For Seamus's entry: to read click here, and to hear it, click here
Department of Vermont 3rd Voice of Democracy winner Abby Gosselin sponsored by Robert E. Glidden Post 758, St. Albans Vermont
Abby is a junior in high school. She is a very active person who likes to run and swim.
For Abby's entry: to read click here, and to hear it, click here
