Rev. Edward “Ed” Botkin taught Old and New Testament, Hebrew, Greek, and Latin at Saint Ambrose University from 1980 to 2006. His expertise, love, and enthusiasm for biblical studies overflowed into the hearts and minds of his students. He was demanding but kind and his pithy sayings are unforgettable. As one student put it, “I learned a great deal from him, not only about the Old Testament, but about myself. He sparked my interest in Theology, Religion and the Bible and made it less frightening.” A true scholar, the Hebrew inscription on his tombstone sums up his life: “I will seek the Lord all the days of my    life, for he is my life and salvation.”

The Father Ed Botkin Essay Award in Theology

In memory of Fr. Edward Botkin, priest of the Davenport Diocese, Scripture scholar, and long-time member of the St. Ambrose Theology Department, the Theology Department offers the annual award for the best submitted research paper in Theology.

Eligibility:

The contest is open to any Major or Minor in Theology or a related area such as Catholic Studies or Justice and Peace Studies.

Rules for Submitted Essays:

• Essays must be submitted to the chair of the Theology Department no later than April 15.
• The essay must be a research paper of at least 5 pages with properly formatted citations and Works Cited in either MLA or APA style.
• The Works Cited must include solid theological sources. Encyclopedia sources may not be cited.
• The essay may be one that has been or will be submitted for a course and may have been revised on the advice of a professor. The copy submitted must be a clean copy with the student’s name appearing only on a removable title page (be careful not to use continuous headers that include the student name or initials).
• The essay must, of course, be the student’s own work. Any plagiarism in a submitted essay will be reported to Records and Registration and will disqualify the student from the current and all future competitions sponsored by the Theology Department.

Judging:

Upon submission, each essay will be assigned a number and the title page with the student’s name will be removed. Judging will be by a panel of 3 Theology faculty who will rate the essays individually and will then reach consensus as to the best essay.

Criteria for Evaluation:

• The writer has clearly articulated a theological issue or stance.
• The writer has made effective use of appropriate theological sources in support of the stance or in explanation of the issue.
• The essay illustrates skill in synthesis, analysis, and theological reflection.
• The essay is well-written in clear, consistent style.

Award:

The winner will be announced at the Student Awards Assembly.