MALTA – The Kishwaukee College Speech and Debate Team wrapped up their season at the inaugural National Speech Championship, hosted by Northwestern University on March 25 - 26.
“Kish not only went head-to-head with local community colleges, but were fortunate enough to compete against several of the nation’s top university programs, including George Mason University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Ball State University,” Matthew Weibel, Kishwaukee Speech and Debate coach, stated. “Though we entered a smaller team than many competing community colleges, we took Second Place in the community college division. I am so proud of our team.”

The National Speech Championship was co-founded by Ryan Lauth of Northwestern University and Peter Pober of George Mason University, who wanted to design a tournament that would allow students from programs of all sizes and budgets to have a chance to showcase their events on a national stage. Twenty-four colleges and universities competed in the inaugural tournament.
Beside the second place overall team finish, Kish team member Courtney Huhta, of Sycamore, advanced to the Novice Final Round with her Speech to Entertain.
“The tournament served as a wonderful conclusion to an exciting season, and the Kougars are already looking forward to their next year of competition,” Weibel added.
For more information on the Kishwaukee College Speech and Debate Team for the 2017–18 season, contact Jaime Long at 815-825-9532 or at jaime.long@kishwaukeecollege.edu.