Education
The education department within an Elk's organization plays a pivotal role in fulfilling the group's commitment to community service and personal development. At its core, the purpose of the education department is to design, implement, and support programs that foster lifelong learning, leadership, and academic excellence among members and within the communities they serve. This includes a wide range of initiatives, from scholarship programs aimed at helping students achieve their higher education goals to educational outreach activities that address the needs of local schools and promote civic responsibility.
Meet Our Leaders
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Beauty & Talent
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Civl
PGER
Bro. Frank Brown
PGDR
Patricia Valerie
ABOUT US
The Education Department has a long and impactful history within the IBPOEW:
Established in 1925 by Grand Exalted Leader J. Finley Wilson as one of the order’s key centralized departments, along with Health (1926), Civil Liberties (1927), and Economics (1930) .
Its early initiatives included:
- Oratorical contests
- College scholarships
- Adult education programs in literacy and civics, aiming to enhance participation in democracy and constitutional rights.
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Impact by 1927:
Nearly $5,000 awarded to 23 students (equivalent to around $85,000 today) . -
By 1940:
Approximately 300 students had won over $350,000 in scholarships through the contests. Notable participants included Dorothy Height, who won a $1,000 first-place prize, and a young Martin Luther King Jr., who participated in 1944. -
Present day:
International Oratorical Contest: national scholarships totaling $10,000 and personal development for high school students.
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DEPARTMENT FORMS
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No forms at this time.
GALLERIES
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DEPARTMENT NEWS
Empower Youth Through Oratory
An oratorical contest is more than just a speech competition—it’s a launchpad for leadership, confidence, and self-expression. By participating, youth learn to organize their thoughts, speak with clarity, and engage audiences with purpose.
These contests help youth build resilience, sharpen critical thinking, and discover the power of their own voice. Whether they’re sharing personal stories or tackling global issues, participants grow into articulate, thoughtful leaders ready to make a difference. Let’s give them the mic—and watch them rise!
If you have a youth that would be interested in our program please reach out to our State Director or State Diretress.
CONTACT INFORMATION
We are always looking for those that are interested in learning more about what we have to offer. If you have questions are would like to get more information please email our State Director, Frank Brown and State Directress Patricia Valerie or join our mailing list.
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