For the first time in the University South Alabama's history, students from USA philosophy department won the undergraduate essay contest sponsored by the Alabama Philosophy Society. Justin Litaker and Anthony Shiver took first and second place, respectively, in the Alabama Philosophy Society's 2007 student essay contest.

Litaker, a Mobile native, is a senior at USA and will complete his philosophy degree in May 2008. Litaker won first place with his essay "Modal Realism and its Discontents." Litaker said he was surprised when he won the award from the APS.

"Winning the award came as a shock," Litaker said. "I was told that the competition would be stiff. Needless to say, I was speechless when I received the news. I was overjoyed. It is truly an honor to win."

Shiver, of Slocomb, Ala., is also a senior philosophy student at USA graduating in May 2008. He took second place in the APS contest with his essay "Weak Knowledge, Critical Thinking and Testimony in Education." Shiver said USA's philosophy department played a large role in his success.

"We're fortunate to have such a brilliant and helpful group of philosophers working here at South. I could not have done this without their help," he said.

Both students will present their papers at the APS meetings in Orange Beach, Ala., on Sept. 21 and 22. Litaker received $75 as the first prize winner.