Announcing the Winners of the Hawkeye Haiku Contest

Thank you to the 399 University of Iowa alumni and friends from around the world who participated in our annual haiku contest.

We asked participants to create a haiku that explores a “together” theme in a 5-7-5 syllable pattern. 

Our judges worked diligently these past few weeks to read submissions from 34 states and as far away as Poland and Spain.

Without further ado, here are the winning haiku. The winners will receive a Hawkeye prize pack.

In addition, we have selected honorable mentions from each age group for your reading pleasure.

2023 Hawkeye Haiku Contest Winners

Grades 3 & 4

Ants work together
Just like the sun and the moon
Working day and night
- Elise S., Iowa

Grades 5 & 6

In nature’s embrace,
We find solace, love, and peace.
Together, we thrive.
- “Nature” by Emily D., Iowa

Grades 7 & 8

Resolve our conflicts
Be kind, always maintain the
Hawkeye state of mind
- Eva K., Iowa

Grades 9–12

Laughter warms cold night,
cider sipped, memories shared
Giving thanks with friends
- Edith D., Iowa

Adult, University of Iowa Alumni

New life, uncertain.
Eyes closed, we dive in head first
as one, together.
- Angela Sewalson (19BLS), Iowa  

Adult, Non-University of Iowa Alumni

walking to breakfast
air sweet with beach rose and pine
his hand brushes mine
- Susan Dines, Pennsylvania

We hope you enjoy reading these amazing haiku from your fellow Hawkeyes as much as we did! You can also read submissions from past winners.