Press Releases

WICHITA–Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has announced two opportunities available to high school students in 2020 – the annual Congressional Art Competition and nominations to U.S. service academies. 

"These two opportunities for high school students are incredible ways for young Kansans to showcase their talent and ability through the arts and service," said Rep. Estes. "Each year I'm encouraged by the Congressional Art Competition artists and service academy applicants as they display the absolute best Kansas has to offer." 

Congressional Art Competition: 
High school students in Kansas’ 4th District may submit up to two pieces of art for the competition. The deadline to submit artwork is Friday, April 3. All artwork that meets the competition criteria will be displayed at Mark Arts in Wichita April 10 to May 9 with a reception April 17. The winning artwork will be framed and shipped to Washington, D.C., to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year along with other winners from around the country. The winning student will also receive two free roundtrip airfare tickets, courtesy of Southwest Airlines, to attend a reception in D.C. to honor the winners. Other prizes may be awarded. 

Students and high school art teachers interested in learning more about the Congressional Art Competition should visit estes.house.gov/art. 

Service Academy Nominations: 
Every year, Members of Congress may nominate up to ten candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy, West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment. 

Students from the 4th District who apply will be interviewed by a panel of local community leaders at Rep. Estes' Wichita District Office in November. A one-on-one meeting with Rep. Estes will follow their interview. Academies make the final selection for appointments based on additional evaluations. 

Students and high school counselors interested in learning more about service academy nominations should review candidate requirements and apply online atestes.house.gov/service by Oct. 1. 

For More Information: 
Questions about either program should be directed to the Office of Congressman Ron Estes at 316-262-8992.

Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means.