The Law Day Essay Contest attracts essays from students across the state, competing by grade level, grades 7-12. By researching and writing about a topic related to the annual Law Day theme, students can gain a deeper understanding of and make a stronger connection with our heritage of liberty and the citizenship it requires to keep our country free.

The Essay Contest culminates each May on Law Day (on or near May 1) with a luncheon honoring the winners. Parents, teachers, and community members are also invited to attend this annual luncheon.

On Law Day 2004, Dr. Terrence Roberts, a member of the “Little Rock Nine”, was the keynote speaker at the luncheon. Dr. Roberts was one of the first to integrate the all white Central High School after the landmark decision of Brown v. Board of Education.

Dr. Roberts teaches in the Masters in Psychology Program at Antioch University in Los Angeles. He is a clinical psychologist and owner of a management consulting firm that offers expertise in several areas, including managing racial and ethnic diversity and developing multicultural awareness.

The 2004 American Bar Association theme recognized the 50th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education. Students addressed the following in their essays:

" Why do you think schools were the focus of the litigation that led to the decision in Brown v. Board of Education? Is it more important for schools to be diverse and desegregated than the rest of society?"

Dr. Roberts’ appearance in Nebraska was underwritten by a generous gift from the Robert J. Kutak Foundation.