princeton essay winners

The 2016-2017  Princeton Writes essay contest invited University staff to share their thoughts on something they believe is overlooked or underappreciated at Princeton. Among 40 submissions across 31 academic and administrative units, four essays stood out. Tom Dunne was awarded the Princeton Writes Prize, and Matt Eaton, Jon Horowitz, and Gwen McNamara received honorable mentions.

Pictured at the Princeton University Art Museum, from left, Princeton Writes Essay Contest honorees Tom Dunne, Jon Horowitz, Gwen McNamara, and Matt Eaton. Photo: David Kelly Crow.

The four honorees painted a captivating picture of their “special something” at Princeton through a rich blend of original perspectives, unique style, and fond memories.

In his essay “ Anonymous Monument ,” Tom Dunne , Deputy Dean of Undergraduate Students, wrote about a depression in the stone step below the door of West College, on which he stumbled when he first arrived at the University. What would become a literal touchstone in the years that followed first took him by surprise – “because I was nervous with expectation, and I also didn’t expect to encounter a defect on a campus radiating such manicured perfection.”

This was Dunne’s first submission to the essay contest. “I thought I would do revisions,” he said, “but I actually wrote it in one sitting and was sort of happy with it.” He sent his essay in shortly before the deadline and, over time, forgot about it. When John Weeren, director of Princeton Writes , eventually appeared in his office, Dunne first assumed it was to talk about another project. His colleagues, already aware of the purpose of Weeren’s visit, joined him. “It was like a mini pop-up surprise party,” Dunne said. “It was nice to have them there to celebrate.”

Matt Eaton , Information Technology Manager in the Office of Admission, recently moved to Princeton from Rutgers University. His office in West College reveals a beautiful view of Cannon Green, but it was something less obvious that inspired him to enter the essay contest.

He chose to write about the Cotsen Children’s Library in his essay “ A Guide to Princeton’s Wonderland ,” a decision prompted by numerous visits to this unique corner of Firestone Library with his two-year-old son. “I imagined we would be bringing him over to the library for years to come,” he said, “so that’s why I picked this subject.”

Eaton, who doesn’t usually write in a creative vein, liked how inviting the contest seemed. “There was a line in there that said: ‘You don’t have to be a professional writer to compete; amateurs are welcome.’ This was kind of new ground for me,” he said, recalling being both in shock and pleasantly surprised when Weeren came to his office to congratulate him on his honorable mention.

Jon Horowitz , Associate Director for Digital Communications in the Office of Alumni Affairs, focused on technology in his essay “ Wired .” “It’s everywhere, but because it’s everywhere I don’t think it’s appreciated,” he said. “Wired” underscores the omnipresence of technology on campus, as well as the importance of the “warriors” working 24/7 to supply, maintain, and improve it.

Horowitz didn’t start his essay until two days before it was due. “I like writing on deadline,” he said. “Between journalism and days in college, I would always wait till the last minute when papers were due; otherwise, I would just keep rewriting.” He has always written in his free time – short stories, novels, “even just tinkering a lot” – though with a small child and a new one on the way, free time is scarce.

For this reason, Horowitz was drawn to Writing Space, a Princeton Writes -sponsored forum for writers and would-be writers who want to hone their skills, share experiences, and find inspiration. “Writing Space,” he explained, “is one of the things that I feel literally created a space to at least think about writing, even if it’s just for that hour.”

Between social media, web-based stories, and print materials, Gwen McNamara , Communications Coordinator at the Pace Center for Civic Engagement, rarely puts down her pen. She also regularly attends Writing Space .  There she was inspired by a prompt inviting participants to select one word in a poem and use it to create something new. McNamara picked the word crunch. “I liked the idea of thinking about the sound,” she said.

This idea became the springboard for her essay “ Trail Walk ,” an exploration of the wooded trail along Washington Road and under Streicker Bridge that she visits as often as she can. “It helps to be quiet and to be with yourself a little bit sometimes, to process and reflect and appreciate, too,” she said. Her essay embodies her conception of writing, which she described as a way of “capturing your memories and the moments that you have either with family or friends or your kids” and “not wanting to lose sight of those special stories.”

Like every submission, the essays chosen for special recognition demonstrate that the written word is alive and well in offices across campus. The Selection Committee looks forward to celebrating this vitality at a reception for all contestants on June 12, from 2:30-4:30 p.m., at Maclean House.

Princeton Writes is grateful to University community member Célia Chalfoun for contributing this story.

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Oglesby Elks Lodge announces Americanism essay winners – Shaw Local

Pictured are (left to right) James Cusack, Illinois Elks 2021-2022 president, Princeton Christian Academy student Lydia Hardy, and Lou Sulsberger, Illinois Elks Association state sponsor. Hardy read her winning essay at the state banquet in Springfield. (Photo provided by Lisa Fultz) The Oglesby Elks Lodge shared the winners of its Americanism Essay Contest, including a Princeton Christian Academy student who was invited to read her winning essay at the Illinois Elks Awards Banquet in Springfield. This year students had to answer the question: “What does it mean to love your country?” Jocelyn Martinez, an Oglesby Washington Junior High School student, and daughter of Irma Soto, was the first place winner for the Oglesby Lodge and the Great Northwest District in the seventh and eighth grade division, advancing to the state competition. Pictured are (left to right) Jocelyn Martinez, seventh and eighth grade Oglesby Elks Lodge/district winner; Kendall Bassett, seventh and eighth grade Oglesby Elks Lodge/district third place winner; and Alan Zarbock, their English Language Arts teacher. (Photo provided by Lisa Fultz) Lydia Hardy, a Princeton Christian Academy student, and daughter of Kyle and Jessica Hardy, was the second place winner for the Oglesby Lodge and the Great Northwest District. Hardy placed first at the state competition. She was invited to Springfield to read her essay at the Illinois Elks Awards Banquet. Kendall Basset, an Oglesby Washington Junior High School student, and daughter of Jennifer Kurtz, was the third place winner for the Oglesby Lodge and the Great Northwest District. Pictured are (left to right) Princeton Christian Academy students and Oglesby Elks Lodge Americanism Essay Contest winners Kaylyn Friel, Joel Odell and Lydia Hardy. (Photo provided by Lisa Fultz) Joel Odell, of Princeton Christian Academy, son of Curtis and Jessica Odell, was the first place winner for the Oglesby Lodge in the fifth and sixth grade division and finished second in the Great Northwest District, advancing to the state competition. Kaylyn Friel, of Princeton Christian Academy, daughter of Cory and Pamela Friel, was the second place winner for the Oglesby Lodge in the fifth and sixth grade division. Copyright © 2022 Shaw Local News Network Copyright © 2022 Shaw Local News Network

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How to Write the Princeton University Essays 2023-2024

Princeton has two prompts that are required for all applicants, as well as three short-answer questions that give you just 50 words for your response. There is one other prompt, focused on your academic interests, which will be different depending on if you are applying for a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Engineering. Finally, Princeton has a somewhat unusual requirement—a graded paper to be submitted with your application.

Because Princeton is one of the most competitive schools in the country, you want to be sure that each of your essays, plus the graded paper you submit, will help you stand out from other applicants who have superb academic and extracurricular resumes. In this post, we’ll break down how you should approach each prompt so you can be sure that your essays maximize your chances of acceptance.

Read these Princeton essay examples to inspire your writing.

Princeton University Supplemental Essay Prompts

All applicants.

Prompt 1: Princeton values community and encourages students, faculty, staff and leadership to engage in respectful conversations that can expand their perspectives and challenge their ideas and beliefs. As a prospective member of this community, reflect on how your lived experiences will impact the conversations you will have in the classroom, the dining hall or other campus spaces. What lessons have you learned in life thus far? What will your classmates learn from you? In short, how has your lived experience shaped you? (500 words)

Prompt 2: Princeton has a longstanding commitment to understanding our responsibility to society through service and civic engagement. How does your own story intersect with these ideals? (250 words)

More About You Prompts (50 words each)

Please respond to each question in 50 words or fewer. There are no right or wrong answers. Be yourself!

What is a new skill you would like to learn in college, what brings you joy, what song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment.

Graded Paper: Princeton requires you to submit a graded written paper as part of your application. You may submit this material now or any time before the application deadline. If you choose not to upload the required paper at this time, you may mail, e-mail, or upload your paper through the applicant portal. Detailed instructions for our graded paper requirement can be found here . (1-2 pages)

Bachelor of Arts Applicants

As a research institution that also prides itself on its liberal arts curriculum, princeton allows students to explore areas across the humanities and the arts, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. what academic areas most pique your curiosity, and how do the programs offered at princeton suit your particular interests (250 words), bachelor of science in engineering applicants, please describe why you are interested in studying engineering at princeton. include any of your experiences in, or exposure to engineering, and how you think the programs offered at the university suit your particular interests. (250 words), all applicants, prompt 1, princeton values community and encourages students, faculty, staff and leadership to engage in respectful conversations that can expand their perspectives and challenge their ideas and beliefs. as a prospective member of this community, reflect on how your lived experiences will impact the conversations you will have in the classroom, the dining hall or other campus spaces. what lessons have you learned in life thus far what will your classmates learn from you in short, how has your lived experience shaped you (500 words).

Brainstorming your topic:

This prompt essentially boils down to its last sentence—how has your lived experience shaped you? Now, that is an incredibly open-ended question, which you could use as a road into just about any topic. That freedom, combined with a pretty long word count, means that the brainstorming process is crucial to writing a strong response. If you don’t already have a clear sense of what you want to say, your essay may end up all over the place.

One good way to focus your brainstorming is through the prompt’s attention to conversations. You’re likely going to share similar things with your peers at Princeton as you do with your friends and family right now. So, questions like the following may help you start figuring out what you want to write about:

• Which stories do you tell most often?
• When you meet someone new, what are some of the first things you usually talk about?
• When you give advice, which experiences do you draw on?

Hopefully, thinking through these slightly more targeted questions will give you some ideas about what you might want to include in your essay. Remember, you have space to work with here, so you don’t have to zero in on just one thing like you would for a shorter prompt. That being said, you also want to make sure that your essay is organized, so you also don’t want to be trying to fit in ten different things.

Rather, select one experience, or 2-4 experiences that are clearly related , to use as the foundation for your essay. Once you have a general structure for your essay, you can then connect bigger picture takeaways to it, which ensures that your essay is cohesive.

For example, maybe you choose to focus your essay on an ice fishing trip you took with your grandfather, and the lessons you learned about patience and the value of cross-generational relationships. Alternatively, you could write about your tradition of getting an owl-themed trinket anywhere you go on vacation, and how this small, seemingly silly routine has given you something consistent across different periods of your life.

Tips for writing your essay:

As noted above, for this prompt, brainstorming is more than half the battle. If you have a clear game plan before you start writing, actually getting the words down will hopefully be more about finding the right phrasing and crafting smooth transitions than actually generating content.

You do want to make sure that, like in any college essay, you’re utilizing the “show, don’t tell” strategy. In other words, rather than telling something to your reader directly, describe a moment or situation that illustrates the point you’re trying to make. To see the benefits of this approach, compare the following two excerpts from hypothetical essays:

Excerpt 1: “For as long as I can remember, I’ve collected owl trinkets on family vacations. In 2009, I got my first one, a ceramic burrowing owl from Tucson, Arizona. The most recent addition to my collection was a dense, bronze owl from Athens, who I was especially excited about since owls are the symbol of Athena, the patron goddess of that city.”

Excerpt 2: “As my family enters the small, dimly lit shop at the end of one of Athens’s many winding streets, my eyes immediately lock onto the shelves upon shelves of owls. Huge, marble ones that cost hundreds of euros, and tiny, wooden ones as spindly as a toothpick. After much deliberation, I select a dense bronze fellow who is barely an inch high. I can already envision how he’ll look on my desk at home, lined up next to all the other owls I’ve collected over the years.”

These two excerpts give us basically the same information, but the first presents it to us in a very dry, factual way. The second, on the other hand, drops us right next to the writer as they pick out their latest owl, and includes vivid descriptions that make this excerpt much more engaging to read.

Particularly since you have 500 words at your disposal, you should see this essay as an opportunity to show off your creative writing ability with a stylistic flourish here and there. That being said, in your early drafts, don’t focus on this kind of finer detail. Make sure you have a personal, informative, cohesive essay first, then take the time to add the cherries on top later.

Mistakes to avoid:

As we hinted at in the brainstorming section above, the biggest potential pitfall with this essay is that between the open-ended prompt and the high word count, you may end up adrift, without any clear focus point to anchor you. To avoid that happening, don’t just rattle off a bunch of vague, Hallmark card lessons. Instead, follow the strategies laid out in the previous two sections to ensure that the points you make are clearly connected to your own personal experiences.

The other thing you want to be sure to avoid is repeating information that can already be found elsewhere in your application, namely in your Common App essay. If you already wrote about your owl collection there, you want to pick something else to focus on here. You only get so many opportunities to share your personality with Princeton’s admissions officers, so don’t waste one by telling them things they already know.

All Applicants, Prompt 2

Princeton has a longstanding commitment to understanding our responsibility to society through service and civic engagement. how does your own story intersect with these ideals (250 words).

Keep in mind that the keyword is “story”—this prompt is not an invitation to list all of your achievements in community service as you will on your resume. Rather, Princeton is asking for a deeply held part of your identity through which you’re motivated to perform civic engagement and service. We’ll cover some specific points below, but we also have a detailed blog post on writing service essays that you’ll find useful as well.

Also note that this prompt is a bit more focused on Princeton itself, so devote about 30-40% of your writing to specific programs at Princeton that align with your interests. We always recommend spending a good hour snooping around a college’s website, clicking through links and looking at the different clubs, classes, programs, institutes, and communities. Also check out Princeton’s webpages for service and civic engagement .

A trusty table can be of good help while you brainstorm:

Focus on one interest or concern. Here, less is more—focusing on one key experience or aspect of your identity shows more thought and effort than copying and pasting several experiences. And for this prompt, it’s most effective to focus on the service work about which you can write the most and or to which you can relate the most.

For instance, a student wanting to study literature might help make sandwiches for charity every month, but she probably has a more immediate connection to being a weekly reader and Bible study leader at her church.

Don’t turn your brain on autopilot or regurgitate the prompt. This prompt uses a lot of “admissions-speak,” which should serve as a signpost to direct you, not as suggested wording to include in your response.

“Intersect,” for example, has become an important—but increasingly robotic—buzzword in recent years. Try to avoid repeating it, and instead opt for words with more emotional resonance: “find a home [at Princeton],” “delve into the research [at Princeton],” etc. The same goes for “service” and “civic engagement”—repeat them too much and you’ll start to sound like you’re using the prompt as a crutch. Besides, there are more vivid words at your disposal.

As always, be specific. Pick not just a broad issue (“helping the homeless”), but also a subset of the issue that actually seems manageable (“making sure that the homeless have access to Internet and library services”). From there, look for potential classes offered at Princeton, and student organizations involved in similar missions. It may be worth citing current student activism projects you find on Princeton’s website, and discussing how those same opportunities would allow you to apply your skills in the best way for you personally.

All Applicants, More About You Prompts (50 words each)

“There are no right or wrong answers.” (Alexa, play “Why You Always Lying?”)

There is a wrong answer, and it’s a category—“boring.” In fact, the more unique and genuine your answer is, the more you can break away as a contender. And because you have such a short word limit, you can even add a little mystery. This is the right place for that, too—it’s the end of your application, and a thought-provoking or fascinating answer will just remind your reader that “We have to interview this applicant to find out more.”

For example, a lackluster answer to the “soundtrack” question might be sensible and logical, but flat: “Since I’ve been sick and stuck in quarantine, ‘Circles’ by Post Malone summarizes my repetitive experience.” Well, it’s passable as small talk. But it’s self-contained and doesn’t elicit any curiosity.

A better answer will entertain, provoke a chuckle, frighten, intrigue —any verb you want your reader to have. Recontextualize a song. Pick a weird one. Send your reader to YouTube to look it up. For example, “Early in his career, David Bowie wrote a song about being stalked by a magical gnome . It is friendly, but harasses Bowie. Does it come in peace, or with malice? It is, like both, inescapable. Its voice plays in my dreams. I fear gnomes now.” The weirdness there commands attention.

You can also demonstrate uniqueness by redefining or recontextualizing a word in the prompt. For example, you could write about a niche type of joy, like schadenfreude (well, maybe not that one), fear/excitement, or watching fire. You could redefine “song” to include birdsong, or the indistinct chatter, easy listening music, and whirring of coffee machines at your favorite coffee shop.

A word on the “skill” question: it may be helpful to address a shortcoming or skill gap, then cite the skill and how it will improve your life. Doing so can prove that you’re not going for pure quirkiness or trying, superficially, to be a Manic Pixie Dream Freshman. For example, “juggling!!!” itself might seem a little vacuous, but can be easily deepened by expansion: “juggling as part of the team would help me overcome my fear of performing and presenting in front of crowds.”

Overall, use these “More About You” questions to showcase another part of your story, personality, or character that you didn’t have the chance to showcase before. When answering this prompt, it can also be helpful to astral-project yourself into another student or someone who’s assessing you as a potential friend.

With this outside perspective in mind , look over your answers: would you want to grab lunch or share a dorm with the person who has written them? Would you be inspired to befriend the engineering major who answers the first “More About You” question with yet another example of her love of engineering? Or would you rather befriend the engineering major who answers the same question with her love for candlemaking and Dolly Parton? The main point is that answering these prompts successfully takes a degree of self-awareness and quirkiness.

All Applicants, Graded Paper

Princeton requires you to submit a graded written paper as part of your application. you may submit this material now or any time before the application deadline. if you choose not to upload the required paper at this time, you may mail, e-mail, or upload your paper through the applicant portal. detailed instructions for our graded paper requirement can be found here . (1-2 pages).

Unlike with the other essays, Princeton isn’t assessing your personality and interests from the graded written paper you’re submitting. Rather, this paper will give the admissions officers insight into your academic capabilities as a student. While the admissions officers can already see your physical grades and reports from teachers, this is a unique chance for you to showcase your talents for conveying an academic idea in writing—a crucial skill you’ll need in college and in life.

We have an entire post dedicated to the requirements for the paper, tips for choosing your paper, and instructions for submitting it. You can read it here !

Bachelor of Arts Applicants, Prompt 1

This essay is only required for those who have indicated on their application an interest in pursuing a Bachelor of Arts.

This prompt somewhat fits into the “Why This Major?” essay archetype . The main difference is that rather than being asked about one specific major, you’re being asked about your general academic interests. This prompt is intended to get a sense of your passion and thirst for knowledge. Princeton only wants to admit the most intellectually curious students, so your essay should convey your academic passions and how you’ll explore them at Princeton.

You want to be sure your essay reveals meaningful emotional reasons for wanting to pursue the fields you want to explore. Asking yourself these questions will help you explain why you’re interested in your chosen topic(s):

• What are specific examples of concepts or things that you enjoy in this field?
• What positive skills or traits are exemplified by this field?
• How might majoring in/studying this topic serve your life and/or career goals?
• What is your state of mind or the emotional experience you have when you explore this topic? Why do you find that state or experience appealing?

Note: The above questions are phrased in a singular way, but the prompt does allow you to talk about multiple areas of study. If you’re interested in multiple things, you should consider writing about them in this essay. Bear in mind the 250-word limit, though, so don’t get too carried away with the number of areas you choose.

After you’ve figured out why you’re interested in your chosen field(s), you can start writing. A good essay will introduce the field(s), articulate your core reasons as to why you’re interested in the field (ideally through anecdotes or specific examples from inside and outside the classroom), and explain how this field might help you in the future.

Here are some examples of responses that include all of these elements:

1) A student who is interested in geosciences might write about how he has grown up by the beach and spent his whole life surfing. He could describe how he became fascinated with how the largest waves he loved to surf were formed.

He might then discuss the independent research he’s done on the tectonic plates, and his study of topographical maps of the Pacific Ocean floor to find the best locations for waves in California. Finally, he would explain how understanding the physics, chemistry, and biology of the ocean can help him predict areas at risk of climate crises as a future environmental consultant.

2) A student who is interested in politics could write about her experience volunteering for her local representative’s campaign. She could describe how she offered to run the social media accounts for her representative since she has an eye for graphic design.

Through attending strategy meetings, reading policy briefs, and speaking to constituents, the student got an inside look at what it means to be a representative, which sparked her interest in politics. After her experience in local government, she got very excited to learn the intricacies of national government and public relations in her classes. She feels that these classes will prepare her to be a press secretary on the Hill one day.

3) A student who is interested in architecture might talk about the trip he took to Barcelona, where he saw the most unique architecture he’s ever seen. After his trip, he researched the architects who created some of the structures he saw. His research inspired his portfolio in art class, in which he painted a collection of houses inspired by the Barcelona style. He hopes to learn more about architectural fundamentals so he can turn his creative designs into practical structures.

Since the prompt asks explicitly about the programs offered at Princeton, make sure you include specific opportunities unique to Princeton that make it the perfect place to pursue this field. You could talk about things like these:

• The specific approach the University takes in teaching specific fields (perhaps you are fascinated by approaching biology from an evolutionary standpoint in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology major)
• Classes or professors you are excited to have (e.g., Philosophy of Mind , or Turning Points in European Culture )
• Extracurricular opportunities that align with your interests (research projects, study abroad programs, and community service organizations, etc.)

Remember, name-dropping will get you nothing! For every resource you mention, you should have a concrete explanation as to what you hope to gain or contribute when you engage with the resource. Also, make every effort to avoid praising a subject without explaining its significance to you personally. And finally, don’t talk about how you might want to pursue a subject because it pays well or because your parents want you to pursue it.

Bachelor of Science in Engineering Applicants, Prompt 1

This essay is only required for those who have indicated on their application an interest in pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.

The key here is to be specific ; an implicit aspect of this question is “Why Princeton engineering? What makes Princeton’s engineering program different from other programs? Why would this be a better fit for you than any other?” In essence, this is sort of like the common “Why This Major?” prompt , but it’s referring to a specialized program rather than a specific major.

Rather than vaguely discussing the reasons that Princeton’s engineering program is something you wish to be a part of, mention specific resources and appeal to the philosophy of an engineering education. For instance, if there’s a particular class that interests you, don’t be afraid to directly mention it and connect the class back to your overall interest in engineering.

Extracurricular programs are another area you should definitely mention. If you’re passionate about sustainability, you could discuss your interest in the Princeton chapter of Engineers Without Borders , commenting on how you will use your membership to promote sustainable engineering. If you enjoy working with kids, perhaps Princeton Engineering Education for Kids is more appealing. No matter your interests, be sure to mention a club or organization that could allow you to pursue these interests outside of the classroom.

If you have a preferred area of specialization, such as bioengineering or chemical engineering, it would be great if you’re able to tie this back to your current passions or activities. Maybe you’re already involved in an organization at your current school that deals with these more specialized areas of engineering. If so, make sure to emphasize this, as that would allow your passion to shine through and showcase previous relevant experience.

Be warned, however, that listing all your engineering related activities can make your essay sound like a resume. Rather than simply providing a list, connect each activity to each other in order to construct a more cohesive essay. Make sure that any change in topic flows smoothly from one to the next to avoid transforming your essay into a laundry list of your achievements.

Another direction that you might take when discussing previous engineering experience is to discuss your state of mind when partaking in these activities. Perhaps working on complex engineering problems gets your adrenaline pumping, or maybe you find it quite therapeutic and relaxing. It’s always a good idea to show the admissions officers how you feel when partaking in subjects or activities you’re passionate about.

As always, remember to show Princeton another piece of yourself by highlighting your passions, interests, and goals, and by connecting these back to Princeton’s academic environment.

There are a few things you should avoid when writing this essay:

• First, don’t simply praise Princeton for being a prestigious institution. It’s not a bad thing to be nice, but you should save the limited space you have for substantive, meaningful reasons.
• Second, as mentioned before, don’t simply list your experiences without elaborating on their importance. You don’t want your essay to read more like a list than an essay.
• Finally, don’t state that you want to study engineering for the money or because your parents are forcing you to. These are seen as insincere reasons that won’t make you the most desirable applicant.

Where to Get Your Princeton Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Princeton essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Four Students Win Seventh Annual KBHF Essay Contest

Four high school students from across Kansas have won $500 each in the seventh annual Kansas Business Hall of Fame essay contest. The contest was open to students in Grades 9 through 12 in Kansas with entries from homeschooled students also accepted.

Original essays were based on research of a Kansas Business Hall of Fame honoree inducted into one of two categories: Historical or Contemporary. Inductees can be found at www.ksbhf.org . Students could read about the inductees and choose one that inspired them. They were encouraged to use their own personal thoughts and views that best pertained to the theme and themselves. Sixty-six entries from 14 Kansas high schools were judged by a panel of business professionals and business faculty.

Below are the four winning authors and the KBHF inductee they wrote about:

• Addilyn Bruns, freshman, homeschooled, Topeka, inductee Arthur Capper
• Aubryn Garriott, senior, Olpe High School, inductee Bill Kurtis
• Lucy Krebsbach, freshman, homeschooled, Meriden, inductee Charles Walker
• Benjamin Soyka, senior, Leavenworth High School, inductee Warren Augustine Bechtel

The prize money totaling $2,000 was graciously donated by the Kansas Chamber of Commerce. Winning authors were mailed or presented their certificates.

Dr. James Leiker, KBHF Board Chair, said, “The Kansas Business Hall of Fame is proud to honor these students and their instructors, who, through these essays, help us better understand the rich tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation that our state has fostered.”

The winning students will be invited to the KBHF Induction Ceremony on Thursday, June 13, in Cremer Hall on the campus of Emporia State University, where they will receive their prizes.

The KBHF Board would like to thank the following judges: Susan Elliott, Beth Ginter, Paul Grimes, Sherriene Jones-Sontag, Connie Lindell, Jeff Muldoon, John Rich, Butch Sim, Ed Bashaw and Jim Shepherd.

About the Kansas Business Hall of Fame: Housed in Emporia State University’s School of Business Cremer Hall, the Kansas Business Hall of Fame recognizes business leaders who have added to the prestige and growth of Kansas. By identifying outstanding examples of business leadership, the Hall of Fame shares these stories of success and innovation through representative displays. The Hall of Fame creates an awareness and appreciation of Kansas' rich heritage of business leadership. The Board is made up of individuals from all over the state of Kansas with representatives from universities, community colleges, and private and public businesses. For more information, please go to www.ksbhf.org .

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What we saw at polls and watch parties on Indiana's primary Election Day

IndyStar reporters spent Election Day talking to voters, candidates and poll workers. Here's what we saw and heard throughout the day and as results rolled in. This coverage is free as a public service. If you don't already, please consider  subscribing to IndyStar  to support local journalism.

11:30 p.m.: About 19% of registered voters in Hamilton County cast ballots, according to early data

Data compiled by the Hamilton County Election Board shows about 19% of registered voters in the county voted Tuesday. Early numbers show 51,896 voters cast ballots in the primary election, with 36,636 of them cast on Election Day.

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Early numbers compiled by the Marion County Election Board show just 13% of the county's registered voters cast ballots in Tuesday's primary election.

As of 10 p.m. Tuesday, 85,682 ballots had been received, according to the board's website, of the 632,919 registered voters in the county. (Certified election results won't be ready until May 21, according to the board.) More Republican ballots were pulled than Democratic — 46,757 and 38,667, respectively.

9:40 p.m.: Here's who's winning Indiana's Congressional primary races

Several of Indiana's nine Congressional districts saw contested races in at least one of the parties. Here's how those are shaping up:

More: Here's who is winning Indiana's primaries for U.S. House

9:20 p.m.: Braun accepts GOP gubernatorial nomination, thanks supporters

"When you run these campaigns, it's about fleshing out what the important issues are. And you have thick skin to get through it. And then you have to be very forgiving and don't hold any grudges if you're going to actually get something done," Braun said. "That's how we take this state to the next level, and I can't wait to do that."

9 p.m.: AP calls 6th Congressional District for Shreve

The Associated Press declared Jefferson Shreve the winner of the Republican primary for Indiana's 6th Congressional District Tuesday night.

Shreve, who ran for mayor of Indianapolis in 2023, led the seven Republican candidates with 28% of the vote followed by state Rep. Mike Speedy and political newcomer Jamison Carrier both with about 22% of the vote, according to unofficial results.

More: Jefferson Shreve wins 6th Congressional District GOP primary

— Brittany Carloni

8:45 p.m.: AP calls 5th Congressional District for Spartz, Carson wins in 7th

In the 5th Congressional District, with about 77% of votes counted, Republican incumbent Victoria Spartz leads with about 39% of the vote with state Rep. Chuck Goodrich at 33% of the vote and Max Engling with 10% of the vote, according to preliminary election results.

In the 7th Congressional District, incumbent André Carson had 91% of the vote with 69% of votes counted, shortly after the race was called by the Associated Press at 8:05 p.m. He will likely go on to win the November election too, due to the Democratic-leaning make up of the county.

More: AP calls GOP primary for 5th Congressional District for Victoria Spartz

More: Rep. André Carson wins 7th District Democratic primary

8:30 p.m.: Doden and Chambers release statements, say they've called to congratulate Braun

Republican gubernatorial candidates Eric Doden and Brad Chambers have both released statements saying they've conceded the race for the party's nomination to Sen. Mike Braun.

"I entered this race because I believe Indiana is a great state, but that with the right leadership, it could be even better," Chambers said. "I hope U.S. Sen. Braun will be the leader Indiana needs and act ambitiously to create more opportunities that will lift up every Hoosier.”

Doden shared a four-part written statement to X (formerly Twitter). "Today I have an even stronger belief in the greatness of the people of Indiana," he wrote.

"Tonight is merely a step along the way in our calling to make Indiana even better," Doden wrote. "God has given us a peace and a renewed energy that this is not the end of a journey, or the beginning of one, but the continuation of one that will bring many good things."

Related: In-depth profiles of all of Indiana's Republican candidates for governor

7:35 p.m.: Crouch concedes governor's race: 'It's been an incredible journey'

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch conceded the Republican governor's race to Sen. Mike Braun.

"It's been an incredible journey," she said, thanking supporters. “As a party, we need to unite behind him to ensure that we keep Indiana on the road to victory in November by electing Mike Braun as the next governor of the state of Indiana."

— Alexandria Burris

7:20 p.m.: AP calls Democratic primary race for U.S. Senate for McCray

With about 13% of the vote tallied, Valerie McCray has a 30-percentage-point lead over former state Rep. Marc Carmichael.

The Republican nomination is  assured for lone candidate U.S. Rep. Jim Banks .

More: Associated Press calls Democratic race for U.S. Senate for Valerie McCray

7:15 p.m.: AP calls GOP governor's primary for Braun

With nearly 13% of votes counted across Indiana, Sen. Mike Braun has about 39% of the vote, which is 18 percentage points ahead of  Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch . Former  commerce Secretary Brad Chambers  is close behind Crouch, with nearly 18% of the vote so far.

More: Associated Press calls Indiana governor's race for Sen. Mike Braun

7 p.m.: Indiana polls are officially closed

As the clock strikes 7, all polls have closed across the state. IndyStar will have reporters stationed at candidates' watch parties and providing context as results are posted.

Check back here for election results as they come in .

6 p.m.: Polls close across majority of state

Polls have officially closed across the majority of the state (all eyes on you now, Central Time Zone).

5:30 p.m.: Carmel voters weigh in on gubernatorial primary

Kate Bechtel, 69 of Carmel, said she comes out to vote no matter what the issues are because “it’s my civic duty.” She said she had to do a lot of research to decide to vote for in the Republican gubernatorial primary. “There were a lot of ads and misinformation out there.”

Bechtel decided to vote for Brad Chambers and said she feels great about that. She liked that he built a business — “That takes hard work and shows honesty and integrity, something you don’t get much of in politics these days.”

Jim Brown, 50 of Carmel, said when he’s voting in the primaries, he’s looking for the right people who want what’s best for the community. He voted for Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch for the Republican gubernatorial candidate, feeling her policies aligned the most with his beliefs.

Brown said there was really only one Governor candidate who he was against: Sen. Mike Braun. “Some of his ideas I don’t think are good for the state, they feel more self-centered.”

— Sarah Bowman

5:25 p.m.: Braun to reporters at watch party: 'I feel real good'

— Tony Cook

Severe weather could arrive in Indy area as polls close and could create rush-hour headaches

Severe weather is expected to hit the Indianapolis metro area before polls close Tuesday afternoon. Storms, which include heavy rain and large hail, are expected to hit the western suburbs between 5 and 6 p.m. and are likely to create issues during rush-hour traffic, said Sam Lashley, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Indianapolis.

“Everybody should just be on alert and have multiple ways to get warning information,” Lashley said, adding that storms will continue until around 8 or 9 p.m. “If you hear thunder, get indoors, get to a safe spot.”

Indianapolis is under a tornado watch this evening . Cities and towns west of Central Indiana, including Terre Haute and Brazil, were under a tornado warning around 4:45 p.m.

Stay weather aware: Tornado watch issued for parts of Indiana. Hail, damaging winds possible. What to expect

— Kristine Phillips

5:15 p.m.: First-time voter says he 'didn't even consider' Biden's age while casting primary ballot

Liam Hoffman, 18, a recent high school graduate, voted in his first election at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 52nd Street and Central Avenue.

He said he pulled a straight Democratic ticket, specifically to register support for Joe Biden.

“A lot of his views align with mine,” Hoffman said, citing student loan forgiveness. “He’s the best chance to get some things changed.” 

Hoffman said Biden’s age was not an issue for him.

“I didn't even consider it,” he said.

Three other voters in the polling place in the Democratic-leaning neighborhood said they pulled Republican ballots even though they are democrats or Independents so they could vote against Mike Braun for governor.

— John Tuohy

5:10 p.m.: 'I figured I would try and choose the least-bad option'

Robert Jackson, 63, stopped by John Boner Community Center to cast a ballot in the Democrat primary. Jackson said he’s a loyal Democrat. He doesn’t have faith or confidence in Donald Trump. “The Democrat party's work(ed) hard to get African Americans and other people of color to where they are now. I don't want to see their work in vain."

Erin Turner, 32, also pulled a Democrat ballot. “Because we’re really red, I feel it’s important to vote blue when you have the opportunity.”

She'd like to see more Democrats on the ballot. “I just feel like we’re going to continue to be red in that realm, just based on the number of candidates there were for that. Democrats don’t really have a choice. It’s just like, well, there was one person. That’s all you get.”

Mike Matta, 33, wants to be heard. He usually votes Democrat, but that doesn’t get him very far in a red state. So this time, he pulled a Republican ballot in the primary.

“Knowing that our governor and senators and all that sort of stuff are probably going to be Republican, I figured I would try and choose the least-bad option," he said. He picked Nikki Haley for president (who dropped out of the race after qualifying for Indiana's ballot) and Brad Chambers for governor.

4:45 p.m.: Brad Chambers would help boost Indiana’s industries, former Democratic voter says

At the Jewish Community Center on the north side, the polling center was nearly empty by late afternoon, with one or two voters walking in every few minutes. Several voters either didn’t want to talk or didn’t want to share their names and voting decisions publicly, citing broad polarization concerns.

But Andy Helmbock, 42, said he voted for Brad Chambers for governor, saying the Republican candidate’s background in business would boost the state’s industries, including biotechnology, construction and manufacturing. On the campaign trail, Chambers, founder and CEO of Buckingham Companies, described himself as a political outsider and business leader who can grow Indiana’s economy.

“He’s had a thumbprint on a lot of pulse of businesses,” said Helmbock, who said he was a Democrat but now identifies as an Independent. He added that rising costs of living in coastal states would make Indiana, under Chambers’ leadership, an attractive place for businesses.

Chris Seigel, 68, didn’t want to share whom he voted for. He did say he believes Mike Braun will be Indiana’s next governor, although he has little confidence in the Republican frontrunner. Seigel also said he cares deeply about female reproductive rights, and the issue dictated how he voted this election. He described himself as pro-choice.

4:30 p.m.: Join us for a live discussion of some of the primary's marquee races

IndyStar is going live at 6 p.m. for a panel discussion of some of the election's biggest races so far. Hosted by the Star's government and politics editor Kaitlin Lange, the panel will include Statehouse reporters Brittany Carloni and Kayla Dwyer and opinion editor James Briggs.

Also joining us for the panel are Abdul-Hakim Shabazz, political commentator and publisher of  indypolitics.org , and Democratic strategist Lindsay Haake, whose clients include Democratic Attorney General candidate Destiny Wells.

4 p.m.: ‘Rain, sleet or shine, I’m ready to go’

There's only a couple people voting at the IPS Service Center on Walnut Street.

Tiera Betts, 36, said she likes candidates from both political parties. She's a veteran, so she said she'll prioritize whoever can benefit veterans the most.

"It just depends on what I feel when I open the door," Betts said, laughing.

Suzanne Crouch stands out to her; Betts said she admires how Crouch handled the pandemic. On the other hand, she likes how U.S. District 7 Rep. André Carson "makes sure veterans get their benefits.”

Regardless, voting is important, she said.

“I know my grandparents got hosed down trying to vote, got chased by dogs trying to vote," Betts said. "So whenever it’s time to vote, rain, sleet or shine, I’m ready to go.”

— Nadia Scharf

4 p.m.: Turnout slow at Lucas Oil Stadium a few hours before polls close

There were more construction workers in the parking lot of Lucas Oil Stadium than voters mid-afternoon. At least one of those workers, 52-year-old Phil Rosenkrans, sauntered over and became a voter – the only voter the polling place saw in half an hour.

Though he finds the premise of being restricted to one party's ballot puzzling and stifling, he nonetheless chose a Republican ballot, as he usually does. On the six-way governor's race, there was just one piece of information he knew: He wanted to pick someone other than U.S. Sen. Mike Braun.

He knew so little about the other candidates, though, that he picked a name at random toward the middle of the list and couldn't recall what the name was.

"Too many people had too many negative things to say about him," he said. "I just knew I didn't like him."

The last Republican governor he liked, actually, was Mitch Daniels. He remembers that the economy was good and the roads got fixed up. Daniels certainly represents a bygone era of Indiana politics where mudslinging was taboo, unlike this election: "He was the dude."

— Kayla Dwyer

3:30 p.m.: 'We need somebody who's not afraid to represent for Indiana'

Community building and hometown pride are important for mother-daughter duo Karyn Lander, 47, and Camille Lander, 20.

The pair voted at Lawrence North High School today. Camille graduated from the school in 2022, and she said she looks for candidates who have the community’s best interests in mind, just like she does.

Her and her mother kept an especially close eye on the race for Senate, as they’re keen to find someone who will stick up for the Hoosier state.

“We need somebody who’s not afraid to represent for Indiana,” Camille Lander said.

As to why they decided to show out for the primary election, Karyn Lander said it’s because they’re voting for the people who “decide who’s going to be on the ballot.”

Even if the turnout is smaller than a general election, Camille Landers said, that raises the stakes that much higher.

“The one that’s seen as less important is the one you got to watch out for,” Camille said.

— Jade Thomas

3:15 p.m.: Voter turnout in HamCo already exceeding that of 2022 primary

According to Hamilton County officials, more than 25,200 voters had cast ballots by 3 p.m. on Tuesday, exceeding the number of Election Day voters in the 2022 primary . An additional 3,955 absentee ballots and 11,248 early ballots had been received. Hamilton County sits in the state's 5th Congressional District, where incumbent Republican Victoria Spartz faces a challenge from State Rep. Chuck Goodrich, R-Noblesville, and others.

More: Here's who is running against Spartz and Goodrich in Indiana's 5th Congressional District

In Marion County, officials reported 46,362 ballots had been cast by Tuesday afternoon.

3:05 p.m.: Republican voters say they're looking for candidates that represent their politics

AJ Bucher, 25, said he didn’t think any candidate on the ballot currently represented him very but voted for Curtis Hill in the Republican primary for governor because he seemed like the most right-leaning candidate.

“He feels the least mainstream GOP to me,” Boucher said outside of the Pike Township Fire station 62.

Ryan McCroskey, 47, said he likes current Gov. Eric Holcomb and said there were plenty of candidates to choose from for the Republican primary but eventually chose Brad Chambers.

“I’ve actually met him in person and he just seemed the most real and most sincere to me,” McCroskey said.

— Caroline Beck

3 p.m.: 'You never know, one vote might tip the scale'

In Fishers on Tuesday, voters cast their ballots in an 1800s-era log cabin on the western edge of the city near the White River. Campaign signs for Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, and Max Engling, a 5 th  Congressional District Republican candidate, greeted voters at a white picket fence in front of the Historic Ambassador House.

It was a cloudy afternoon, but a steady group of voters quickly moved in and out of the polling location. There were no lines and voters said they had no problems casting their ballots at the Hamilton County polling site. “It was very quick,” one person said.

Most of the voters Tuesday afternoon were interested in the Republican gubernatorial campaign. Maribeth Degyansky said she pulled a Republican ballot and voted for former Indiana Secretary of Commerce Brad Chambers. Degyansky said she liked his business experience and that he was “not a career politician.”

“He just seems like a down-to-Earth, honest person who would represent the middle class,” she said.

Russ Cable, who lives just two miles from the Ambassador House, said he was interested in the governor’s primary and the 5 th  Congressional District race, where Victoria Spartz is running for reelection against eight other candidates. Cable said he pulled a Republican ballot, but did not share how he voted. The Fishers resident said he has never seen such a crowded primary in the governor’s race before, which especially makes it important to vote this year.

“You never know, one vote might tip the scale,” Cable said.

2:45 p.m.: 'I think that (Crouch) can make a difference'

It’s quiet inside IUPUI’s University Library. Still, a few voters are trickling in.

Claire Weaver voted a Democratic ballot, and said she chose Valerie McCray for her progressive policies. She chose to vote today because she “wants to live in a democracy,” she said.

Mike Pollard voted for Suzanne Crouch on the Republican ticket. She has the experience, he said.

“I think that she can make a difference,” Pollard said. “Maybe she wants to finish the unfinished business she had when she was lieutenant governor, but at the highest level now.”

Pollard doesn’t align himself with either party. This year, he went Republican because of his conservative values, particularly around government finances, but he says his vote depends on the “conversation” surrounding the candidates.

"What are the needs, who’s talking more about what’s going on, not just personally but collaboratively, some of the subjects we’re dealing with," Pollard said. "Who is talking more about it, and who’s giving answers.”

2:30 p.m.: Democrats ponder pulling Republican ballots but decide against it

Linda Schussler and her husband Bob, who usually pull Democratic ballots, considered choosing Republican ones today at Lawrence North High School.

Linda said she wanted the opportunity to vote for a candidate for governor who was the most honest. But she didn’t, as she said, “the information that’s gleaned from primaries is necessary for Democratic planning in the future.”

Jim and Jan Fuquay had a similar idea, but decided not to pull a Republican ballot. They were also concerned about the race for governor and were unimpressed that candidates didn’t focus heavily on topics like education.

“They don’t really get in-depth about issues in Indiana,” Jan Fuquay said.

The couple, who tutor third-graders to improve their literacy skills, want a candidate who’s well-educated, honest and cares a lot about education.

2 p.m.: 'It feels like everyone is running for governor'

Tim Jedlicka, 61, said he came out to vote in the primary election for the “insane governor race — it feels like everyone is running for governor.”

He said it was hard to decide whom to vote for because he felt the candidates were too caught up in federal issues. Jedlicka wouldn’t say whom he ultimately voted for in the Republican gubernatorial primary, but said he’d like to hear more talk about school funding.

“I’m from Illinois where a budget surplus is unheard of,” he said at the Roy G. Holland Memorial Park Building.

He said he would like to see that money put to use.

The Fishers resident also said he did not vote for U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz or state Rep. Chuck Goodrich for Indiana’s 5th Congressional District in the primary.

“They both can go,” Jedlicka said.

1:30 p.m.: 'It concerns me seeing money that should go to the public schools going to the vouchers'

Greg Bowes, 64, said he ended up voting for the Pike school referendum question even though he is hesitant to see more state dollars go to charter schools.

He ultimately voted yes because he said at least the dollars weren’t going to private schools and would be staying in public schools.

“At least charter schools have a little bit more oversight than the voucher schools do, which can basically do whatever they want, and it concerns me seeing money that should go to public schools going to the vouchers,” Bowes, a Pike Township resident, told IndyStar where he voted at Snacks Crossing Elementary School.

1 p.m.: 'Indiana is a red state and only getting redder. All I have is my vote'

A steady stream of people went in to vote at the Delaware Township Government Center over the lunch hour and were able to complete the task in about 10 to 15 minutes.

Monica Shimer, 54 of Fishers, voted a Democrat ballot. She said some people may feel like it’s a lost vote, but she still wants her voice to be heard.

“Indiana is a red state and only getting redder. All I have is my vote, I’m not going to give up,” she said.

Shimer said she considered pulling a Republican ballot. She said if there had been a “real” opponent to Donald Trump for the Republican presidential nomination, she would have voted Republican “to be a counterweight and vote for anyone else but him.”

Likewise, Linda Schenk, 75, said she and her husband voted a Democrat ballot.

“That’s probably why we were in and out so fast — not a long ballot,” said Schenk, of Fishers. “We are definitely one of a minority in the area.”

Schenk grew up in Indy but recently moved back to the area after 40 years in Evansville. She said there would be more representation on both sides of the ballot down there and “it’s been an adjustment” being back in the Indy area “where things feel much more one-sided.”

12:15 p.m.: Gubernatorial primary and 5th congressional district races bring out Fishers voters

At the Delaware Township Community Center, Nate Salsgiver, 36, said he voted to re-elect U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz to represent Indiana’s 5th District. Salsgiver also said the vote for the Republican gubernatorial candidate was a bit more difficult to decide since there were a few he liked based on what he knows. But he declined to say who ultimately got his primary vote.

Jamie Zappala, 31, said she voted for Brad Chambers in the Republican gubernatorial primary. She said he seems likable and the Fishers mayor had endorsed him. She and her family are relatively new to the area, moving to Indiana from Ohio about three years ago.

Zappala said she also wants to set a good example for her children about the importance of voting and respecting everyone’s opinions, even if they’re different.

“We’re a young family, and I want to be able to have those conversations about different topics and issues,” she said.

Noon: Strong feelings about Braun and Pike Township referendum bring voters out

Some voters told IndyStar they pulled Republican ballots — even if they don't usually — especially because they wanted to vote for or against U.S. Sen. Mike Braun for governor.

Darlene Swilik, 61, lives in Indianapolis in the Pike Township area and said she decided to vote for Braun after talking with her neighbors about the governor's race.

“It was general consensus among my neighbors that they went with him because I don't always keep up like I should,” Swilik told IndyStar when she went to vote at Eagle Creek Elementary.

Matthew Smith, 46, said he typically votes Democrat but voted on the Republican ballot because he wanted to vote against Braun. Smith selected Brad Chambers.

“It was quite fun honestly and made me feel like my vote counted more,” Smith said.

Voters had strong opinions about the Pike school referendum, as well. Swilik said she voted no because she didn’t want her taxes raised. Kathy Koehler, 52, said she voted yes because she always wants to support schools.

“If they say they need more support, then I’m willing to help them,” Koehler said.

Jeanne Mathews, 56, is a former Pike Township teacher and came out to vote at the same school where she used to teach, Eagle Creek Elementary School, and said she voted in favor of the referendum question.

“As a former teacher, I understand how important it is that our schools are well-funded,” Mathews said.

11:15 a.m.: 'Our teachers deserve to be paid more'

Rev. Dr. Richard Curry Jr., senior pastor of True Tried Missionary Baptist Church, said he came out to Jonathan Jennings School 109 because he felt it was his duty to exercise his right to vote.

While he wouldn’t say if he pulled a Democratic or Republican ballot, he did say he was closely watching the presidential and governor races.

He also said while he’s worried about rising tax rates, he did vote in favor of the Pike schools referendum.

“Especially when thinking about our African American children, I think they deserve better schools and our teachers deserve to be paid more,” Curry said.

10:35 a.m.: 'Things need to change'

Roger and Tesha Conrad, 59, see voting as one way to correct the course of government.

“Things need to change,” Tesha said. “Neither of us are happy with where things are going, so we have to step up and do what’s necessary, which is vote.”

Both Tesha and Roger voted for Brad Chambers in the gubernatorial race because they see him as an outsider, not a career politician.

“I think that’s the way the system started,” Roger said. “We need to get back to having more part-time politicians.”

— Bradley Hohulin

10:30 a.m.: 'I want to make sure we have a voice'

Downtown Westfield was fairly sleepy in the late morning, with songbirds and construction equipment supplying most of the soundtrack. Still, every couple of minutes, someone walked up the steps of Westfield City Hall to cast their vote.Rick Yelle, 59, said he's voting because he often isn’t satisfied with how officials act on behalf of people like him.“I don’t always feel that we’re politically represented by people who stand for us,” Yelle said. “So whatever ‘us’ is, I want to make sure we have a voice.”

9:45 a.m.: Voters tout candidates 'willing to be in the middle'

Voters filtered into the Crossroads AME Church slowly on a rainy morning, with about two or three entering every five minutes.

Gregory Smith, 72, who voted at Crossroads AME Church, is concerned about the race for governor. He pulled a Democratic ballot but wondered why he’s seen little advertising on that front.

The governor's race was the main reason Megan Plotner, 36, stepped out to vote as well. Plotner, who pulled a Republican ballot, wouldn’t share which candidate she chose but did say it was not Mike Braun.“I want someone willing to be in the middle,” Plotner said.

Greg Swallow, 48, agreed. He wants to return to having debates about topics like Medicare and free market economics, instead of “cultural warfare.” He pulled a Republican ballot because he said there weren’t as many choices on the Democratic side.“I’m 100% voting against Donald Trump,” Swallow said. “I’m 100% against Mike Braun. And it’s 100% because of January 6.”

8:45 a.m.: Couple opts for candidates who bring positivity

Outside of the occasional school board race, Paul Kropp, 64, and his wife Glenna, 62, seldom miss an election of any kind.

“Given the chance to vote, we vote,” Glenna said.

She cast her gubernatorial vote for Brad Chambers, while Paul voted for Eric Doden. Glenna said Chambers struck her as a candidate with new ideas.

“He just seemed more like an outsider, businessman type,” she said. “I think (Mike) Braun will probably win, but I just wanted to cast my vote for someone different at this time.”

Paul, who moved to Carmel with Glenna from Kouts three years ago, gravitated toward Doden’s focus on small towns with his Indiana Main Street Initiative.

Neither Glenna nor Paul voted to re-elect Victoria Spartz for Congress. Paul voted for Goodrich, while Glenna voted for speech pathologist Raju Chinthala.

Paul said Spartz’ decision to exit, then re-enter the race was enough to make him vote against her, although he didn’t feel strongly about any of her competitors. Glenna received several of Chinthala’s campaign flyers and appreciated that he emphasized what he planned to do rather than tear down his opponents.

“I felt like Goodrich and Spartz were just negative all the time, every flyer,” Glenna said.

Both Kropps said they were weary of candidates focusing more on attacking their opponents than promoting their policy.

“And I understand that’s the way you win an election,” Paul said. “You beat everyone else down and you’re the last one left. But I’m tired of it, yeah.”

8:30 a.m.: Election Day weather brings the possibility of severe storms

Storms moving across Indiana today have the potential to bring large hail and tornadoes, the National Weather Service said.

The initial, less severe, wave of storms will move through the area between 9 a.m. and noon.

More severe storms are expected to roll through between 3-10 p.m. with the highest risk between 6-10 p.m.

There is a “broader tornado threat across Central Indiana today. This includes a giant hail threat,” a National Weather Service briefing indicates. Storms are expected to continue into Wednesday.

What to expect: Large hail, damaging winds, possible tornadoes could hit Indiana soon.

— Jen Guadarrama

8 a.m.: 'The primaries can end up mattering more than the actual election'

Carmel Clay Public Library was mostly quiet early Tuesday morning, with a handful of Hamilton County voters trickling in during the first two hours of polling. But Dan Stamer, 33, wasn’t going to miss the primary.

“As a voter in Indiana, the county-wide or state-wide elections tend to be a bit of a home run for one party,” Stamer said. “So the primaries can end up mattering more than the actual election.”

He said he filled out a Republican ballot because his choices will ultimately matter more when electing leaders in historically red Indiana.

Cara Langford, 55, said she has a responsibility to vote, even in primaries.

“I feel it’s a duty,” she said. “People before us have gone to war and died for our freedoms so we can have a voice.”

Langford and her husband John, 55, both cited their faith as motivation for voting for Eric Doden in the gubernatorial race.

“I’m a Christian, and his beliefs align with mine,” John said.

Both of the Langfords voted to re-elect Victoria Spartz for Congress in the 5th District. Cara felt Spartz’ most prominent competitor, Chuck Goodrich, wouldn’t represent her values in Congress.

“My understanding of him is that he wasn’t consistently pro-life,” she said.

7:50 a.m.: Chambers heads out to the polls early

Brad Chambers, the former commerce Secretary who's on the Republican gubernatorial primary ballot, voted at Second Presbyterian Church, saying he heard about an “incredible candidate on the ballot” for governor. He said he believes this candidate can honestly fix Indiana’s challenges.

The candidate? Brad Chambers.

Casting a supporting vote at the same place was Mike Fritton, 56, who said he's known Chambers for over 20 years.

“What he has done in his business career will translate well to the political arena,” said Fritton, who lives in Indianapolis.

7:45 a.m.: Appreciating the right to vote brings people out early

Property taxes in Pike Township were at the top of Breaford Alexander’s list of concerns when he voted this morning at Second Presbyterian Church. Alexander, 50, pulled a Democratic ballot and said that he voted this morning because so many people fought for his right to do so.

Likewise, Jaylen Alexander, 21, encouraged others to come out and vote. He pulled a Democratic ballot, saying that he believes people should be able to do what they want and that he’s seen Republicans try to take people’s rights away.

Where can I vote in the 2024 primary election?

Polls are open in Indiana from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In Marion and Johnson counties, you can vote at any polling location in the county, known as  vote centers . A list of Marion County vote centers is available at  vote.indy.gov/vote-centers . A list of Johnson County vote centers is available here .

In Hamilton County, voters have to cast ballots in their assigned precincts. To find your polling location, visit  indianavoters.in.gov .

Live somewhere else? Check this list to see if your county uses vote centers. Or visit your county clerk's website.

You must present a valid photo ID to vote in person. Visit the Secretary of State's website for more information on acceptable forms of ID.

Homework to prep for the polls: Everything you need to know about 2024 Indiana primary election

Republican gubernatorial primary is marquee race

This is a gubernatorial primary unlike any other: Six candidates, several of them very well funded, have been duking it out for the nomination , with one candidate starting his campaign exactly three years ago .

Polls have shown U.S. Sen. Mike Braun with a comfortable lead over Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, former commerce Secretary Brad Chambers, Fort Wayne entrepreneur Eric Doden, former Attorney General Curtis Hill and Indianapolis mother Jamie Reitenour. But they've also shown a sizeable contingent of voters undecided ― a large enough portion for the other candidates to hold out hope, especially because one candidate could win with about 20% of the vote.

More: Read our profiles of all the Republican gubernatorial candidates

There's only one Democratic candidate for governor: former state schools superintendent Jennifer McCormick. Most observers consider this primary to be the main competition for governor. It would take a significant amount of resources and unique conditions for the Democratic candidate to defeat the Republican nominee in November, given the deep-red demographics in Indiana, and thus far, McCormick hasn't shown signs of amassing such resources.

Open Congressional seats draw major competition

Three Indiana representatives in the U.S. House are giving up their seats this election. One of them, U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, is running for Senate. (That's another race to watch, by the way ― Banks is unopposed for the Republican nomination, but there are two Democrats vying to run against him in the general election.)

Two congressional districts that are in central Indiana, the 5th and the 6th Congressional Districts, have a lot of competition and a striking amount of self-funding .

In the 5th district, which includes Hamilton County, many Republicans jumped into the primary because they thought incumbent Rep. Victoria Spartz was not going to run again, as she stated previously . But she changed her mind , and now that race appears to be a head-to-head between Spartz and state Rep. Chuck Goodrich. Goodrich has loaned $4.6 million to his campaign; Spartz, $700,000 as of May 3.

More: With Greg Pence out, 7 Republicans vie for Indy-based 6th Congressional District

In the 6th district, which includes Johnson and southern Marion counties, seven Republicans are vying to replace retiring Rep. Greg Pence . They include former Indianapolis mayoral candidate Jefferson Shreve , state Rep. Mike Speedy and state Sen. Jeff Raatz, former lawmakers like  John Jacob  and Bill Frazier, and political newcomers Jamison Carrier and Darin Childress. Several of these candidates, particularly Shreve, also loaned hefty sums to their campaigns .

These 6 N.J. high school seniors were just named among the top students in the nation

S ix New Jersey high school seniors are among 161 new Presidential Scholars , recognized for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona announced the winners of the national competition Thursday. The students were selected by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars .

Only California, with nine winners, had more scholars than New Jersey. Florida, New York and Virginia also had six.

The New Jersey honorees are:

• Selina S. Zhang, of Annandale, attending North Hunterdon High School
• Pranav Sitaraman, of Edison, attending Middlesex County Academy for Science Math & Engineering
• Iris Hur, of Paramus, attending Bergen County Academies
• Gabrielle Liberman, of Summit, attending Kent Place School
• Nicholas Yoo, of Ramsey, attending the Delbarton School
• Harmony Zhu, of Cresskill, attending the Brearley School in New York

Zhang and Sitaraman were named traditional Presidential Scholars. Hur, Liberman, Yoo and Zhu were named Presidential Scholars in the Arts.

More than 5,700 candidates scored high enough on the SAT or ACT to qualify for the honor, and others were nominated by state school leaders or arts organizations. Students are chosen based on academic success, or excellence in the arts and in technical education, as seen through their essays, school evaluations and transcripts, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

The students must also excel in community service and leadership.

“The 161 high school seniors selected for the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Presidential Scholars represent the best of our nation’s schools and inspire hope in the bright future of this country,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “On behalf of President Biden, I am delighted to celebrate their accomplishments, and encourage these scholars to continue to aim high, lift up others, and embrace opportunities to lead.”

One of the winners, Gabrielle Liberman of Kent Place School in Summit, is an aspiring opera singer. She is not on social media, but heard Thursday’s news from a friend who saw it online.

Liberman, 17, who is headed to Princeton University, remembers when she heard an arts organization had nominated her for the award.

“It was like, ‘Congratulations, you get to write eight essays,’” she said. But, she learned she could use parts of her college applications to apply for the Presidential Scholar honor.

In an essay, Liberman said she described how her most influential teacher, Jennifer Dwyer, moved the desks in her classroom into rings. The teacher then asked the students in her English class to watch each other speak and decide who among them was the best leader and best listener.

“It’s almost always the best listener is the best leader,” Liberman said.

She also wrote in her Presidential Scholar application about growing up Jewish in Texas before she moved to Summit. For her community service, Liberman said she works in a program through the Union County court system that helps recommend rehabilitative services for juvenile defendants so they can clear their records.

Out of the 3.7 million students graduating from high school this year, two Presidential Scholars are chosen from each state, from families living abroad, from the District of Columbia and from Puerto Rico. Another 15 are chosen at-large, and 20 each are chosen in the arts and in career and technical education.

Students will be honored in an online recognition program in the summer.

New Jersey was also home to six Presidential Scholars last year. The state had three scholars in 2022 and two in 2021 from the same school — the Academy for the Advancement of Science and Technology at Bergen County Academies.

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Tina Kelley may be reached at [email protected] .

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