106th Eighth Grade Speaking Contest

University School recently announced the winner of its annual Eighth Grade Speaking Contest, now in its 106th year, at the Shaker Campus. Six students were selected as finalists to deliver a speech on a topic of interest.

George Nageeb won first place for his speech Stereotype Threats, in which he discussed the lasting psychological effects of racial, sexual and ethnic stereotypes on targeted individuals. George believes stereotypes are caused by fear of the unknown.

"When we don't understand the backgrounds and cultures of other races, we are intimidated," he said, "so instead we make generalized assumptions about other people that will make us feel more secure.

To eliminate stereotyping, George suggests embracing diversity and restoring a person's confidence and security. "Simple things like replacing jokes with compliments or encouragement can give kids the boost they need to look past the assumptions and work at their highest standard," he said.

The second place winner was Benjamin Firstenberg for his speech, It's None of Our Business. Third place went to Isaiah Paik for his speech, Brains Before Brawn.

Honorable mentions went to Miguel Martinez, R.J. McIntyre, and Joseph Fedro.

"These finalists not only wrote excellent persuasive speeches, but they delivered them to the audience with poise and passion," said Lorece Stanley, chair of the middle school English department. "It was wonderful to see their unique personalities shine through during their presentations. I could not be more proud of them."

The judges for the Eighth Grade Speaking Contest were: Alec Frankel, a US senior and 2010 Contest winner; Chris Quinn, vice president of the Content for the Northeast Ohio Media Group; and William Daughtrey, US Dean of Student Life.