Scholarship Applications For American Legion Oratorical Contest Now Open
WARSAW — High school students planning to attend college can apply for the American Legion’s oratorical contest for the chance to win a scholarship.
Each year, student competitors from around the country prepare speeches on an aspect of the U.S. Constitution. The goal is to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the document, as well as foster leadership qualities and public speaking skills.
Contestants will deliver a prepared 8 to 10-minute speech on an aspect of the Constitution before a panel of judges, plus a shorter speech on an assigned topic derived from the Constitutions articles and sections. The national finals will be held in April 2020 in Indianapolis.
The champion will receive an $18,000 scholarship, with second place receiving $16,000 and third place $14,000. State winners who participate in the first round of the national contest will receive a $1,500 scholarship. Those who advance to the second round but not the championship will get an additional $1,500.
These scholarships may be used to attend any college or university in the United States. In addition to the scholarships awarded by the national organization, local American Legion posts and districts award several hundred scholarships to students.