On April 26th, 2011, The Writing Center at Hunter College hosted a presentation ceremony and dinner for the recipients of The Mortimer and Mimi Levitt Essay Contest.  The contest asked students to submit 500 words on The Future, and essays were judged on the quality of writing, style, and creativity by a panel of judges led by The Writing Center director, Lewis Burke Frumkes.   

Hunter High School and College students who entered The Mortimer and Mimi Levitt Essay Contest had the opportunity to win scholarship money for their college endeavors. First prize winner, Megan Daniels, received $2,500 and 2nd prize winner, Kelissa Shillingford, $1000. Jhenelle Robinson and Genta Nishku tied for 3rd prize and each were awarded $500. Runner-up Jacqueline Handman won $100.  

The recipients and their guests, were treated to a special literary treat as Christopher Lehmann-Haupt, the former chief daily book reviewer at The New York Times for 35 years, spoke words of wisdom and encouragement to the budding young writers.  After discussing the 10 things every hopeful writer should focus on and practice as a part of their literary endeavors, Christopher Lehmann-Haupt kept the audience captivated with his own tales of literary blunders and the continuous learning process of life.  Carol Higgins Clark, famed mystery writer, was also in attendance for the presentation ceremony, speaking about her own experiences and growth as a writer, and presenting the contest winners with their certificates of commendation.  Pictures and praise from proud family members and friends soon followed for the contest winners as they each excitedly received their certificates and prizes for their winning thoughts on The Future.