U. City students Marina Claunch, Alice Mutrux, and Andrea DiCarlo have been honored by the Missouri Writing Region of the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.

Competing with over 700 entries from the state of Missouri and Kansas, each applicants’ work was carefully examined and scored multiples times by a panel of jurors comprised of teachers, artists, and authors across the country. As a measure to prevent bias, jurors and applicants know neither the identity of the applicant or the scores given by the jurors respectively. Each piece is assessed in three categories including originality, technical skill, and personal voice.

Mutrux won a Silver Key for her Personal Memoir. DiCarlo’s Writing Portfolio won a Gold Key.

Claunch, who in addition to winning a Gold Key and an honorary mention, is also the recipient of the Walgreens Expression Challenge second place prize.

“I could not believe it,” said Claunch. “When I’m thinking of an idea I try to do a project that’s unique and expresses the struggles of modern society. The way the media influences how we value and interpret beauty is what I try to challenge. I still can’t believe I won.”

English teacher Ms. Hackmeyer persuaded DiCarlo and Mutrux to submit their entries for competition. Hackmeyer was thrilled when she learned the girls won.

“I’m super excited and very proud of them,” said Hackmeyer. “This all grew out of a Cisneros style writing assignment I gave to my AP Language class. I assisted them if they asked for help, but they did it all on their own.”

Mutrux, DiCarlo, Claunch and Hackmeyer will be recognized at the annual Missouri State Language Arts Write to Learn Conference, where their winning works will be on display.

“I really wish I could go,” said Mutrux. “It’s such an honor to be recognized with so many other talented and creative people.”