HUAC GWDC 2020 Oratorical Contest

Theme: HOWARD 4EVER!!!

This year’s theme, “Howard 4Ever!!!”, encompasses the spirit of HBCUs, higher education, historical context and contributions of Howard University, as well as the participants’ personal experiences.

Below are contest rules and guidelines. The contest closes at 11:59 PM, Friday, October 16, 2020.  For questions about the contest, please email us at huacgwdcscholarship@gmail.com. Include "2020 Oratorical Contest" and the name of sender in the subject line.

Rules & Guidelines

  1. Participants will develop a speech that focuses on one or more of the following:
  • Scholastic achievement
  • Social justice, or
  • Community

Applicants must address the sustainability of Howard University. Speeches should incorporate relevant historical and contemporary facts and data that support the claims of contributions from Howard.

  1. Participants will be judged on the following criteria:

Content

  • Speech addresses contest theme and remains on topic.
  • Speech is well developed and main points are clearly organized.
  • Speech adheres to Standard English grammar rules (e.g., pronunciation, sentence structure, etc.).
  • Speech is relevant in today’s environment.
  • Speech is original and informative.
  • Speech is well researched; main points are clear, well supported, and sources are documented.

Presentation

  • Speech is 3-5 minutes in length.
  • Presenter holds the attention of the audience.
  • Presenter projects clearly, maintains good posture, and props (if present) are used effectively to enhance the presentation.
  • Presenter speaks clearly and distinctly.
  • Speech is presented within the allotted time.
  1. Points and penalties.

Participants will lose points or be disqualified if they do not adhere to the time limit. The length of the speech may not be less than 3 minutes nor more than 5 minutes.

  1. Qualification for participation.

Participation in the oratorical contest is open to all undergraduate students currently enrolled at Howard University.

  1. To enter the contest, applicants must:

Submit the Oratorical Contest Entry Form and video presentation no later than Friday, October 16, 2020. The form must include an attached video of the performed speech. Please state your name at the beginning of the speech. Applicants must use a Gmail account to submit the google docs form. Click the link to access the form.

  1. Selection of finalists.

Submission materials will be reviewed, and the speech performance will be scored based on the criteria listed above. Those selected from the submissions may be required to perform the speeches virtually.

  1. Prizes.

The contest prize amounts to be awarded are: $1500 for 1st place; $1000 for 2nd place; $500 for 3rd place.