The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) has announced the recipients of the 2026 Kenneth L. Proulx Memorial Essay Contest for Ongoing College Students. The announcement details a total of $18,450 in awards distributed among 12 winners and eight honorable mentions.
Leading the group of winners, Artem Khaiet secured first place, receiving a $3,500 prize. Other top placements include Astrid Jepson, who took second place with a $3,000 award, and Alexander Safranak, who earned third place with $2,500. The foundation also recognized Hendrick Ventura Andeliz in fourth place with $2,000, and Natalie Sowers in fifth place with $1,500.
The contest, which targeted college students across the United States, awarded prizes ranging from $300 to $3,500 for the primary winners. Additionally, the eight honorable mentions received $200 awards each.
The Kenneth L. Proulx Memorial Essay Contest serves as a platform for college students nationwide to engage with the foundation's themes through written expression. This year's distribution of funds marks the conclusion of the 2026 competition cycle.