You’ve probably seen this affectionate-but-snarky saying: “Amherst: Where Only the ‘h’ Is Silent.” Like the townspeople, Amherst College students aren’t shy about sharing their opinions.
Yet, in truth, they used to be much more vocal—at least in a formal sort of way.
In 1827, for instance, Rhetoric became a required subject and remained so for decades. In the 19th century, several speaking competitions were funded by alumni (like the Bancroft, Gilbert and Kellogg prizes). And, into the 20th century, the College introduced other elocutionary extravaganzas, like the prestigious “Grove Oration,” given by alumni such as Calvin Coolidge, class of 1895.
These prizes, though, and these official occasions for speechifying, had all but faded into oblivion over the years. Until now.
On Feb. 21, “Truth: Amherst College’s Speaking Competition,” made its debut, pronouncements and prizes and all. Call it a reclamation of declamation.
The Writing Center sponsored the event, which it hopes will become an annual one, and Susan Daniels, the College’s public speaking associate, played host, coach and booster. The competition drew 31 contenders. Ten finalists were chosen to present at Johnson Chapel.
Dashiell Shulman ’21 won first place with his speech “The Best Defense Is Probably Not a Good Offense.” Tessa Levenstein ’22 took second with “A Better Way to Grow Up.” And Jeremy Thomas ’21 came in third with “…by any other name…” Video of these three speeches is included here.