State 4-H Public Speaking Contest

On Saturday, Oct. 4, 4-H’ers from across Missouri participated in one of Missouri 4-H’s oldest competitions, the State 4-H Public Speaking Contest. Held on MU’s campus, 61 4-H’ers from counties across the state gathered to show off their skills. These 4-H’ers worked hard all year to prepare for this annual culminating experience which allows them to showcase their skills to a panel of judges. Senior participants that won first place in one of the five categories had the opportunity to show off their skills to participants and their families at the end of the contest. In 4-H, youth begin at a young age to learn to speak in front of others by giving age-appropriate demonstrations to their peers, and then participating in conference judging for their projects. Through this contest, 4-H’ers grow in their abilities. The contest consists of five speech categories, appealing to a variety of interests and skill levels.