LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is inviting Michigan students to take part in the 2026 State of the State address through a new statewide art contest and the first-ever student writing competition tied to the annual speech.
Whitmer announced the contests on Thursday, saying the goal is to give young Michiganders a chance to share what they love about the state and what they envision for its future.
“Michigan is growing as we continue working together to create good-paying jobs, fix our roads, support our small businesses, and invest in our students and schools,” Whitmer said in a statement. “Underpinning all of that is our love for the incredible state we call home — and the people, places, and communities that make it great.”
The governor will deliver her 2026 State of the State address on Wednesday, Feb. 25, where she is expected to outline proposals focused on job creation, lowering costs, education and literacy investments, housing, and other priorities.
As part of the announcement, Whitmer challenged K-12 students to design the cover of the official State of the State program. The art contest theme is “Michigan’s Bright Future,” with students asked to respond creatively to the question, “What does Michigan’s bright future look like to you?”
Students may use a wide range of materials, including crayons, markers, paints, or other art supplies. Submissions must be completed online through the state’s art contest portal.
In addition to the artwork, the governor is launching a new writing contest open to young Michiganders. Students are asked to submit a short story or essay answering the question, “What do you love most about Michigan?” The winning entry will be featured during the State of the State address.
Both contests are open to Michigan students and will accept submissions exclusively online. Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15.
More information, including submission guidelines, is available through the contest webpages on Michigan.gov.
