Public Speaking Competitions
"Courage, hard work, self-mastery, and intelligent effort are all essential to successful life."
—Theodore Roosevelt, from America and the World War
Theodore Roosevelt believed in working hard, in persevering in the face of defeat, and in pushing to do better and strive harder to accomplish one’s goals. He also believed in developing young people, in challenging them to achieve as much as possible, and in recognizing their accomplishments.
In that spirit, the Theodore Roosevelt Association created Theodore Roosevelt Public Speaking Contests, which challenge high school students to develop and give original five-minute speeches on TR’s life and legacy. The Contests build on students’ public speaking, critical thinking and independent research skills, thereby enhancing their academic potential and scholarship, confidence, self-reliance, and leadership abilities.
Theodore Roosevelt Public Speaking Contests have been held in several locations, honoring dozens of students.
- Atlanta, GA
- New York, NY
- Oyster Bay, NY
- Owensboro, KY
- Washington, DC