The 14th annual Public Speaking Competition was held on April 19. Scheduled from 1 to 4:30 p.m. The event offered students from various campuses an opportunity to discuss pressing societal issues, articulate their positions and gain experience in public speaking.

Participants each delivered a 5-6 minute speech on a topic of their choice, addressing fellow students, faculty, family and friends. They advanced through semifinal and final rounds based on their performance, judged by a panel of faculty and staff.

Speakers of the day included dual enrollment student Emma Barber, nursing major Sarah Escamilla Colin, Healthcare Management major Rukky Ayoro, Psychology major Briget Cabrera, graphic Design major Kayla Charlton and Business Administration major Demari Benham.

Cabrera, from the Marietta campus, won third place with her speech on the critical issues facing immigrants in the U.S. She highlighted both the fear within immigrant communities and their economic contributions, especially significant since the end of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

Emma Barber, from the Floyd campus, took second place with her compelling speech on the importance of dental hygiene.

Coming in first place was Escamilla, also from Floyd, who passionately argued for universal healthcare in the U.S. She detailed the financial and personal burdens caused by the current healthcare system while advocating for a model that ensures no one goes bankrupt due to medical bills.

Prizes included GHC-themed items, bookstore gift cards and cash rewards that went to the most compelling speakers of the day.

“I’m just really excited that I got the opportunity to talk about something that I’m really passionate about and that I want to see change in the world,” Escamilla said. “So honestly, that was just the greatest opportunity for me.”

Students interested in participating in future competitions can obtain more information by contacting Steve Stuglin, the competition director, at [email protected].