Proctor Academy - Hays Speaking Prize

When John Pendleton metamorphosed from a lawyer and Chair of the Board of Trustees into an English teacher, he introduced the notion of a public speaking prize to be awarded to a deserving sophomore. Now in its fourth year, the prize is named for another eloquent lawyer/trustee: William C. Hays. Last night, a crowd of students, teachers and judges filled the auditorium and enjoyed well-crafted speeches delivered by nine American Literature students.

Bill Hays, former teacher and social science department chair Connie Appel and current parent Marianne Fairall served as judges, and spoke to each speaker's strengths prior to deliberating. Below, proud American Lit. teacher Jane Barban snarls at me while congratulating Nicola on her fine talk.

Kyle Taustin was annouced as winner in Thursday's assembly. Congratulations to all the finalists!

Bill Hays analyzing each speaker's strengths.

Kyler spoke of Cuba and the U.S.'s refusal to accept hundreds of Jews aboard the ship St. Louis during the Nazi regime. Most were returned to Germany for encarceration.

Sam explored issues relating to sleep deprivation, and school policies.

Blair spoke with passion on having lost a family member to a drunk driving accident, and the power of faith.

Hilary illuminated the world of impressionism with specific examples of Degas, Monet and Van Gogh.

Katharine offered an emotional window into the loss of innocence that comes with age, with "It's a small world, afterall."

Lily brought us to the ethics of art, rap, and Eminem.

Brittany conveyed the pain and anxiety she experienced as a young child when her sister was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Jesse dissected arguments against gun control, and exposed specific weaknesses in Charlton Heston's position in "From my cold, dead hands."

Nicola came in from Mountain Classroom to deliver remarks on environmentalism, biological mimicking, and The Living Machine.