Press Releases

WICHITA – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has announced two opportunities available to high school students in 2021 – the annual Congressional Art Competition and nominations to U.S. service academies.

"Each year I'm always impressed with the talent and caliber of our students here in the Sunflower State as displayed in these two programs for Kansas high schoolers," said Rep. Estes.

"The Congressional Art Competition is an incredible way for our young people to showcase their work locally while also competing for a unique and coveted spot in our nation's capital. I encourage all high school artists in our District to enter and be a part of this fun and energetic competition.

"Dedication and a desire to serve our country are evident in the young men and women who apply for a service academy. Previous applicants have shown strong resumes of service and academic excellence, and I look forward to meeting with this year's applicants in the fall."

Congressional Art Competition: 
High school students in Kansas' 4th District may submit up to two art pieces for the competition. The deadline to submit artwork is Friday, April 2. All artwork that meets the competition criteria will be displayed at Mark Arts in Wichita April 9 to April 30 with a reception Saturday, April 17 at 10 a.m. 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. 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 at estes.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. In addition to these two opportunities for high school students, Rep. Estes also hosts an annual Congressional App Challenge with details forthcoming in the fall. 

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.