FARMER’S KORNER — Colorado students will have the chance to witness history and make their voices heard about leadership, the country’s future, said Lt. Gov. Barbara O’Brien Wednesday morning as she kicked off a statewide essay contest at Summit High School.

The contest, “Write to Lead,” for middle and high school students is sponsored by the Democratic National Convention Committee, Post-News Educational Services and Qwest. Finalists and winners have the chance to experience the political process this summer as the Democratic National Convention comes to Denver.

“This is an incredibly exciting year for politics in the U.S.,” O’Brien told the group of Summit High students. “You have a chance to have a close up seat to history. ... It doesn’t matter what party you or your parents belong to or if you have even decided.”

Fifty students will be chosen as finalists to serve as an ambassador for states’ delegates attending the August convention. They will correspond with the delegation beforehand and give them a preview of the event.

“What happens at nominating conventions has a profound impact on the future — your future,” O’Brien said. “That’s why we’re holding this essay contest. ... We want young people to be a part of this convention right in their own backyard, and, above all, have a voice in shaping our country’s future.”

Dan Stiles, deputy chief counsel for the Democratic National Convention Committee and a graduate of Summit High School, also attended the morning contest kick-off.

He encouraged the students to take part, describing it as a fantastic and unique opportunity.

The convention hasn’t been in Colorado in 100 years, added Stiles who attended Colorado State University for his undergraduate degree and then University of Denver for law school.

While at SHS, a video was created about “Write to Lead” that will be sent to schools throughout the state.

Students in 6 through 11 grades are invited to participate in the contest where they will answer a guiding question in 300 to 500 words. Essays must be postmarked by April 18 and winners will be announced the following month.

For more information about the entry rules and guidelines, check out www.demconvention.com.

“Who knows, you might meet the next president of the United States and start on a path to leadership yourself,” O’Brien told the SHS students.

<i>Lory Pounder can be reached at (970) 668-4628, or at lpounder@summitdaily.com.</i>