Last year's State of the State Art Contest Winner: Erin Kawata, 8th grade, Ann Arbor.

Dear Friend,

Over the last seven years, we have been working together to build a bright future for Michigan. On Wednesday, February 25th, I will deliver my 2026 State of the State Address where I will share my vision for how we can continue building that future by creating jobs, lowering costs, making record investments to improve literacy, building housing, and more.

To make this event the best it can possibly be, I’m calling on young, creative Michiganders to submit their best artwork for the program, inspired by the theme "Michigan’s Bright Future." I am asking students to come up with artwork that answers the question: “What does Michigan’s bright future look like to you?” Students are welcome to use crayons, markers, paint, or any other material. To submit your design, please visit Michigan.gov/ArtContest and follow the instructions on the webpage. 

New this year, I’m also asking young Michiganders to write their best short story or essay answering the question: “What do you love most about Michigan?” The winning students’ writing will be featured as part of my State of the State Address next month. Reading and writing are ordinary superpowers that every Michigan student deserves to have. I’m excited for you to share your superpower with me! To submit your short story or essay, please visit the submission website and follow the instructions on the webpage. Together, we are improving literacy and setting our kids up for the bright futures they all deserve.

Submissions for both the writing and art contest will be accepted exclusively through the online system and must be received no later than 11:59PM on Sunday, February 15th.

I look forward to reviewing your submissions and sharing my 2026 vision with you.

See you soon! 

Sincerely,