2026–2027 Youth Contests & Scholarships
Follow the official Optimist International rules for each contest. Use the links below for contest information, rules and available forms. Contact your local Optimist club about entering and local deadlines.
Contest Contacts & Rules
Oratorical Contest
Chair: Jeff Schmatt
Essay Contest
Chair: Donna Niday
Communication Contest (CCDHH)
Chair: George Volz
Iowa Contest Chair Information
Essay Contest
Chair: Donna Niday
Email: dniday@iastate.edu
For entry questions, contact your local Optimist club.
Communication Contest for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing (CCDHH)
Chair: George Volz
Email: georgevolz@yahoo.com
