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
For 2020 the Theodore Roosevelt Association is partnering with the Theodore Roosevelt Institute to present a NEW National Theodore Roosevelt Public Speaking Contest!
High school students in their junior year are invited to compete in the national contest to win scholarships to Long Island University (home of the Theodore Roosevelt Institute) and cash awards.
Be sure to read NEW Contest Guidelines regarding contest entry via video of speech:
2020 TR Public Speaking Contest Guidelines
For more information, go to:
2020 National Theodore Roosevelt Public Speaking Contest
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