End of the Year Event for Speech & Debate

In the warm descending sun, the Marian University Speech and Debate Team performed their last event of the year at the St. Francis Colonnade. This performance centered on identity, life experiences and the human condition. 

In the beginning, Drew Stewart, Director of Forensics, stood in front of all who gathered and explained the flow of the event. Three performances would happen simultaneously, only 50ft away from one another. Audience members were allowed to glide from one performance to another as they wished. Each performer executed their piece excellently, never getting tripped up over the echoing shouts and cries of their teammates. The animated performances from each individual along with the interesting topics created a wonderfully entertaining hour. 

The day was perfect for an outside event. The sun began its slow approach to the horizon, providing heat and warmth to the cold grass audience members sat on as they watched their chosen performance. Bugs and pollen were alight by the sun, creating a fascinating frame of importance around the speaker. The sunbeams also threaded their way through Grace Plahitko’s hair as she spoke of her ideas of death. Some proud family members brought folding chairs to better see their kin. Others brought small children, prone to running off with phones. 

The event ended in applause for the speakers as smiled and congratulations were shared and lives parted ways until next time. If you are interested in what all these performances were about, The Marian Phoenix has compiled the information on the speakers who presented and linked the recorded videos by the Speech and Debate Team. If you speakers interested in more expressions of identity, The Marian Phoenix staff have all provided captivating stories of who they are today and the struggles it took to get there.

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