Events and Activities : Reynolds Announces Launch of Jewish American Heritage Month/Creative Contest

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has announced the launch of Iowa's Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) Student Scholarship Contest, organized by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM).

"Since the founding of our country, Jewish Americans have made significant contributions to our nation's culture, economy, and civic life," Governor Reynolds said on Sunday. "Here in Iowa, our own Jewish community dates back to the 183os. In every sense, Jewish Iowans have helped build our state into what it is today, leaving a legacy of leadership and service to inspire Iowans for generations to come."

The creative contest - full details of which are available HERE - is open to all Iowa high school seniors planning to attend a two- or four-year college or university in Iowa.

Participants are invited to submit essays in three categories: Jewish Individuals Who Shaped America, Jewish Leadership & Partnership in Advancing Social Cause, and Jewish Ideas and Cultural Contributions to Society.

Entries will be accepted through April 30 with a total of $30,000 in scholarships awarded.

Winners will be recognized by Governor Reynolds at a JAHM reception in Des Moines in May.

CAM's partners for the project include the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines, Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities, Iowa Jewish Historical Society, and Tikvah Fund.

For more information and to submit an entry, please visit:

jahm.combatantisemitism.org/iowa2026