Department of Communication holds second annual student public speaking contest

12:57 p.m., April 14, 2014--Encouraging undergraduates to voice their beliefs and conquer the most prevalent human phobia – public speaking – the University of Delaware’s Department of Communication will hold its second annual student public speaking contest on Thursday, April 17, at 5:30 p.m. in 140 Smith Hall. 

Sponsored with the Center for Political Communication, the Office of the Provost and Fountainhead Press, the contest – titled “Now Hear This UD!” -- showcases student speakers as they utilize their refined communication skills and compete for a cash prize. 

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The contest, celebrating strength in words, will supply entertainment and free UDairy Creamery ice cream to those in attendance. 

Tracey Quigley Holden, assistant professor of communication and director of University public speaking classes, spearheads the competition with a class of approximately 30 strategic communication students. These students will also serve as mentors to contest participants, refining their speeches and preparing them for the spotlight.

“We're always amazed at the issues and ideas our students come up with for their speeches,” said Holden. “Our contest showcases just a few students and allows them to speak up and shed light on important civic issues — engaging and empowering our campus and community.” 

Additionally, the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity will be collecting food and monetary donations for its biannual food drive during the contest. All contributions go to the Food Bank of Delaware, which serves low income and food-insecure families in the First State. 

To learn more about “Now Hear This UD!” visit the contest’s Facebook and Twitter pages.