CUMMING — Ian Davis, an eighth grader at Cornerstone School, won the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club’s 2015 essay contest. 

According to a news release from the club, the theme for this year was “Optimism should be a priority.” His essay prevailed from more than 100 entries. 

Davis, who was awarded $500 for the honor, and his family and teacher were the guests of the club at a recent meeting. 

In addition, his essay will be sent to the zone level to be judged along with winners from other Optimist Clubs in northeast Georgia. If successful there, it will be forwarded to the district level to be judged against winners from across the state.

In a statement from the club, Davis said he chose to write his paper from a scientific perspective.

“I learned that there are facts that prove we can all benefit from being optimistic," he said.

Perry Downen, committee chairman of the club's essay contest, praised Davis’ entry.

"Ian did a wonderful job of articulating in a clear and logical manner this year’s theme," Downen said. "He expressed himself well through the essay and deserved the honor of first place."