Recently, the communications department hosted its annual public speaking contest to much delight and fanfare. Over 100 students joined us to celebrate the eloquence, intellect, and acumen of some of the undergraduate population’s best public speakers. Dr. Roger Stahl, organizer of the event, was particularly impressed, and had this to say: “The quality of speeches was very high. I had at least one jaw dropping moment and one tear of joy. Excellent snacks afterward, too.” This year’s contest saw a remarkable diversity of speeches with eleven total speakers. We heard speeches on the law, Harambe, ghost bikes, racism, capitalism, and murder most fowl. Frist place, and a $100 cash prize, went to Austin Gibbons and his speech titled "Law, Order, and Prison Education.” Austin spoke passionately and logically on the need for prison reform through educational programs. Second place went to Aubrey Strickling for "Mother Blame at the Cincinnati Zoo: A Defense of Michelle Gregg,” and third place went to LaPorsche Thomas with “I Am an Endangered Species.” We’d like to say thank you to our contestants, our judges, and our emcee, Dr. Tom Lessl for volunteering their time. Thank you also to Dr. Stahl and graduate student volunteers for making the event possible. View more photos from the event on our flickr page!
