Founded in 2006 by Richard H. Greene, noted public speaking authority and author, the mission of the competition is "to seek out, develop and recognize outstanding high school student orators." The 2007 competition, offered at no cost to students, their parents or schools, will reach into every high school in America and is open to every high school student grades 9 through 12.

Why Be Involved?

We believe the Words That Shook The World National High School Public Speaking Competition is reflective of “improving schools and communities through service” that enables young people to learn, grow and be leaders in their communities and across the nation.

"Studies of adult leaders clearly indicate that youth experiences in school-based activities and organizations play a significant role in encouraging and preparing youth for leadership as adults (Woyach, 1992)." In addition, critical thinking is considered by most educators to be an important component in the development of leadership skills. And research has shown that critical thinking serves "as a liberating and powerful resource" in personal and civic life for leadership, work place decision-making and effective participation in a democratic society (Facione, 1995; Tishman, 1995; Jones, 1993).

But as you know, only a minority of tested college freshmen display any positive disposition toward critical thinking characteristics and skills, and reviews of civic education in schools reveals that insufficient attention is given to the significant nature of leadership and its development in young people (Facione, 1995; Woyach, 1992).

Programs like our speaking competition allow young people to develop the important life skills of leadership and critical thinking. By participating in the competition, we are encouraging all high school students to take personal responsibility for leadership, developing an awareness of social needs and important issues that should concern them, and building self-esteem to grow their leadership abilities in the communities where they live.

For all high school students participating in the Words That Shook The World High School Public Speaking Competition, critical thinking will be demonstrated and focus each student to examine, research and comment on important issues.

Get Your School Involved Today!

With so many influences vying for the attention of young people today, the Words That Shook The World National High School Public Speaking Competition is more important than ever.

The search is on for America’s best high school speaker and your school and your students can play a significant role. Explore our web site for complete details on this exciting and beneficial competition.

On behalf of the thousands of young men and women who will benefit by participating in the speaking competition, thank you for making a difference!