Spartanburg Day School

Two Spartanburg Day School students were recently recognized in a highly competitive countywide essay competition designed to promote a deeper understanding of the rule of law and civic responsibility among local high school students.

In the 2026 Honorable J. Mark Hayes II Essay Contest, senior Matthew Roff was named the 12th grade winner, while Spartanburg Day School junior Abby Williamson received an Essay of Distinction for her submission. The students were recognized during an awards ceremony held May 7 at The Piedmont Club in Spartanburg. The contest is held in partnership with the South Carolina Bar Senior Law Division.

Hosted annually for students in grades 9 through 12 across Spartanburg County public, private, and homeschool settings, the Honorable J. Mark Hayes II Essay Contest challenges students to submit essays of 1,000 words or fewer centered on a legal or civic theme. This year’s theme was “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.” Essays are judged blindly by volunteer members of the South Carolina Circuit Judiciary.

In his winning essay, “A Fair Field to Dream On,” Roff argued that the rule of law serves as the foundation of the American Dream because it creates fairness, trust, and opportunity for all people. Drawing from his personal background, with an Appalachian father and a Peruvian mother who experienced political violence and instability, Roff reflected on how laws and institutions shape people’s ability to pursue a better future. He used vivid examples, including Spartanburg’s response to Hurricane Helene, to illustrate how shared laws and civic responsibility help communities unite and support one another during difficult times. Throughout the essay, Roff presented the American Dream not as guaranteed success, but as the promise of a level playing field where effort, integrity, and opportunity allow individuals and families to move forward.

Williamson’s essay, “How We Have Detained the American Dream,” examined the idea that while the Rule of Law was intended to protect opportunity and justice, its modern application has not always fulfilled that purpose. Her essay argued that Americans share a responsibility to uphold and apply the Rule of Law as the nation’s founders intended, ensuring that citizens are able to pursue their own American Dreams.

Essay submissions from Spartanburg Day School were coordinated by Tim Fisher, Upper School History & Philosophy Teacher, Grade Dean, and Director of Leader Development.

“We are incredibly proud of Matthew and Abby for the thoughtful work they put into these essays and for the way they represented Spartanburg Day School,” said Head of School Dave Skeen. “These students have clearly demonstrated that the work of teachers like Dr. Fisher in developing purposeful, discerning, and confident young leaders is bearing fruit. We are excited about where Matthew and Abby will lead us next.”