Marilyn Moore

Moore Welcomes 5th Grade Essay Contest Winner to the State Capitol

Senator Marilyn Moore (D-Bridgeport) today was joined at the State Capitol by Monroe Elementary School student Harini Gosukonda, the winner of the senator’s 2017 5th Grade Essay Contest.

Harini, her parents, and older sister, began their day in Hartford with a tour of the Capitol where they learned about Connecticut’s wonderful history.

“I was so impressed by Harini’s interest in our Capitol Building, our library, and state politics. She had so many great questions, which my staff and I were happy to answer,” Senator Moore said. “She’s a smart girl with a bright future ahead of her. I want to thank Harini for being a leader in our community and encourage other kids in the 22nd District to do the same.”

Wednesday was a perfect day for the visit. The senate was in session, so Senator Moore was able to introduce Harini to senate colleagues and the lieutenant governor. Even more exciting, the Connecticut Beardsley Zoo was also visiting the Capitol and brought dozens of reptiles along with them. Harini, who loves animals, was especially happy to learn about the snakes and fearlessly asked the zookeeper to place one on her shoulders.

Earlier this month, Sen. Moore visited Monroe Elementary School to announce Harini as the winner of this year’s essay contest. The subject was “What Would I do to Make My Town a Better Place.” Harini’s essay was chosen out of the entire 5th-grade class at Monroe Elementary School.

Harini is a student in Mrs. Iannantuoni’s 5th-grade class with a passion for reading and helping others. In her winning essay, Harini wrote about collecting toys for local children’s hospitals and distributing mini-libraries throughout the town.