White Paper and Video Contest

WSIA sponsors an annual White Paper and Video Contest to help undergraduate students in risk management and insurance, finance and business expand their knowledge of timely and relevant surplus lines topics. Students can either write an 8-10-page research paper exploring the issues and trends in depth, or create a 3-7-minute video, individually or as a group, presenting research and knowledge in a creative way. The 2026 contest will open in August. To view last year's topics, click here.

Winners Receive:

Four 1st place winners - $2,000 each | Four 2nd place winners - $1,000 each

Judging Criteria:

Content/Research

Introduction – Orients the audience to the topic, captures the audience’s attention and includes a clear preview of main points
Body/Content – Reflects research on the topic, thoroughly addresses the questions in the video prompt, and includes works properly cited either verbally or in the slides or credits
Conclusion – Effectively summarizes the main points and is persuasive/compelling
Copyright – Every photo, graphic or sound file is either original or has permission for its use documented by its owner

Overall Effectiveness of Delivery

Verbal – Strong volume, energy, vocal expression, and evidence of preparation; avoids fillers (um, uh, like, etc.); free of grammar errors and inappropriate language.
Nonverbal – Natural posture, movement, gestures, and eye contact all enhance the message and display a high level of poise and confidence. Use appropriate energy level and engagement with the audience.
Production and Creativity – Engaging video that is well planned with smooth transitions and edits; skillfully uses presentation aids or slides (appropriate content, font size, background images, and sound to enhance rather than detract from the content; materials free of errors).