The art of speaking well in public is perfected through years of practice and begins with experiences like the District 7610 Speech Contest for high school students.

The speech topic changes each year, usually echoing the theme of the current Rotary International President. The 2011 - 2012 Speech Contest theme is Reach Within to Embrace Humanity.

  Finals for the District 7610 Speech Contest will be March 10, 2012. Clubs should complete their contests and report winners to the Assistant Governor and District Speech Chair no later than Feb. 10 2012.  AGs should hold area contests, with winners from each of their clubs, no later than March 3, 2012.

Contestants, who must be in grades 9 – 12, will speak on the Rotary theme: Reach Within to Embrace Humanity.  Each Club should hold a contest in January or early February and make awards as they choose.  Club first place winners advance to a contest conducted by the area Assistant Governor. Each first place winner in the Area contests will compete in the finals, which has awards of $1000 for first place, $500 for second and $250 for third.

The District Speech Contest winner is invited to deliver the winning speech at the District Conference on March 31, 2012. The sponsoring Rotary Club must provide all expenses and a member must accompany the student.

Contest booklets will NOT be mailed; all information concerning the Speech Contest is found on the District website. However, reminders WILL be sent periodically to AGs and Presidents. Any questions may be directed to the District Speech Chair, Jennifer King.