VOICE OF DEMOCRACY

 

The 2026-2027 VOD Theme

 

"WHAT A VETERAN TAUGHT ME ABOUT AMERICA" 

 

2026 - 2027 Voice of Democracy Program

 

2026-2027 VOD Student Entry Form

 

2026-2027 Student Biographical Questionnaire Form

 

2026-2027 Parental / School Release Form 

 

The VFW Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves on a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, nearly 27,000 9th through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $2 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

In Michigan, one student from each of the VFW's 12 Districts will compete on the state level, each winning a minimum scholarship of $1,000. The State winner will go on to compete at the National level of judging. The National first place winner will receive a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school of choice.

 
The 2025 - 2026 State of Michigan Voice of Democracy Program judging was completed in December.  On January 31, 2026 the State winner was announced at the State Mid-Winter Conference award banquet honoring this year's three Teachers of the Year and the VOD State winner and the Patriot Pen State winner.
 
And the 2025-26 VOD State winner is:
Levi Darnell, representing District 11, sponsored by VFW Post 5738, Clare
Levi will receive the $6,000 Ralph J. Seabold Scholarship and an all expense paid trip to the Freedom Foundation experience at Valley Forge, PA.  Levi will now complete in the National competition against 51 other Department winners for the VFW National award of a $35,000 scholarship.

Michael Martin, Director

199 East 34th St, Apt 2

Holland MI 49423

616-594-9151

scholarships@vfwmi.vet

 

Nicole Koutz, Auxiliary Chair

410 N Clinton St

St Louis, MI    48880

989-620-6425

turtlelee@hotmail.com