Pleasantview Elementary School fifth-grader Lauriel Benoit is a winner of the 2021 Dexter R. Stanton Essay and Visual Art Contest. A series of virtual community events commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. recognized Benoit with the honor during sessions held from Saturday, January 16, through Monday, January 18. Benoit received a monetary award for her submission and has an opportunity to participate in a virtual artist-in-residence monthly program.
The theme of this year’s MLK community celebration was “Neighbors Serving Neighbors.” To compete in the Dexter R. Stanton contest, Benoit needed to answer the question, “How have I, or can I, help my neighbors and bring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream closer to reality?” Benoit could enter the contest by sharing visual artwork, a written essay or a recorded message that articulated her answer. She decided to submit under all three ways. “I completed all three kinds of work so I would be able to choose which one I liked best and see which one educated people more about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his message,” she explains.
Her work and creativity paid off. Her award represents Pleasantview Elementary and the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District, and she shares this honor along with several other St. Cloud area students in different age and grade categories.
Benoit said participating in the contest has helped her gain confidence and that she was motivated to submit work because she wanted to talk about a great American hero. “I learned I could do anything I put my mind to! I want others to think about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and I hope I inspire them to treat others in ways they want to be treated.”
Benoit’s mom, Lauren, says the philosophy of treating others as you would like to be treated is one in which Lauriel firmly believes. “I am grateful this contest gave her the platform for her voice and artwork to be heard and seen. Her father and I are more than proud of our daughter’s talent to inspire others. Being kind goes a long way!”
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. community celebration is an initiative of the Community Anti-Racism Education group (CARE). The event began as a celebration at St. Cloud State University and is now sponsored and supported by many organizations.
Learn more about the community celebration and the Dexter R. Stanton Art and Essay Contest.
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