Speech

Doane Forensics is a nationally ranked perennial power that competes alongside some of the best young minds this nation has to offer. That said, competition is not our primary focus. We help students find their passion and use the stage as an outlet for their unique voice. Students are not valued based on the number of trophies they earn but the energy, work, and camaraderie they bring to our team and the community. 

Why Speech?

Speech is the practice of providing evidence through the spoken word — our association researches and trains in the global skills of argument and public advocacy. Doane Forensics focuses on improving students and preparing them to be agents of change. Members are frequent finalists and award recipients in the Fulbright and JET programs. Alumni of the team hold a vast range of essential positions in academia, government, and business. 

Competition

At tournaments, students enter preliminary rounds with students from different schools. A coach from another team or a hired judge watches all performances and ranks them. After preliminary rounds are ranked, top students move to elimination rounds. In elimination rounds, a panel of judges rank the competitors, and final placings are determined. Individual placement adds points to a team’s total score. The total team scores determine the top teams at the tournament.

Value

Speech students represent the best qualities of Doane and are known for their professionalism, friendliness, and competitive excellence. Students conduct in-depth research on innovative, controversial, and vital subjects. They spend their weekends listening to competitors from across the country. The knowledge students bring back to campus, and their willingness to engage in conversations enhances Doane’s culture.

Scholarships and Auditions

Speech Scholarship

Forensics attracts high school speech and debate competitors of all levels. However, you do not need previous speech experience to audition. Any student with a passion for performance and advocacy can become a Doane Forensics champion. 

Complete Your Forensics Scholarship Application

Related Majors

Strategic Communication

Our strategic communication major focuses on learning the theories behind public speaking, interpersonal communication, political rhetoric, and public relations. Students may apply their understanding of communication strategies toward careers as communication consultants, marketing managers, and public relations directors.

Media Communication

Our media communication major focuses on content creation for broadcast, digital, print, or visual media. Students working towards careers as broadcasters, filmmakers, journalists, social media strategists, and more will learn media production through hands-on experience and one-on-one mentoring.