Another successful column contest is in the books. We received over 800 entries, which we narrowed down to a final 40. This year more than ever many entries would have been worthy winners. After much deliberation, we’re excited to announce the five winning columns. They are, in random order:

Hijabi In Plain Sight
by R. Aicha

Inside Witnesses: One Crime’s Many Narratives
by Marti Jonjak

Mostly Uninformative Infographics
by Cecilia Esther Rabess

I Don’t Have This Job
by Joslyn and Justin Sklar

Listicles for People Exactly Like You
by Rufi Thorpe

Each winner will receive a $500 prize. Look for these columns to launch in the coming weeks.

We are also pleased to announce our Column Contest honorable mentions. Each of these writers will be regular contributors to our virtual pages this year:

Rebunking Conspiracy Theories
by Keaton Patti

Women Who Should Be Pretty Pissed Off
by Amy Watkin

Doing Science: The Business of Figuring Things Out
By Emily Helliwell

How to Be a Better Teacher-Person Through Apathy
by John Minichillo

Thanks to all who entered! We’ll be back with the 8th Annual Column Contest around this time next year. Follow us on Twitter (@McSweeneys) for updates and alerts.