Since 2007, Speech Trek has been showcasing talented young people responding to topics related to AAUW’s mission. Contests at branch and state levels provide students with opportunities to develop and sharpen research, critical thinking and communication skills.
In 2009, Mr. Gray Allen chose to memorialize his late wife Eleanor, Roseville/South Placer’s Speech Trek Coordinator. Mr. Allens’ annual $5,000 contribution has allowed us to offer prize money as follows:
- 1st Place – $1,500
- 2nd Place – $1,000
- 3rd Place – $500
- 4th Place – $250
- 5th Place – $150.
Each year, the top three speakers form the semi-final round are invited to compete in the Speech Trek Finals at the annual meeting or convention.
1st Place – Caroline Irvine – Redlands Branch
12th Grade, Redlands East Valley High School, Redlands
Caroline is fully engaged in campus life as a VP of Key Club, 12th Grade Pres. of National Charity League, and “Ticktocker Council” Representative. Caroline competes in Mock Trial and Speech and Debate. Caroline plays the viola, touring Europe during Summer 2016 as Second Chair with So. CA Ambassadors of Music. She loves hiking and skiing and has worked as a ski instructor. Caroline plans to attend Harvard to study Environmental Studies and Film with the goal of creating educational documentary films on the environment.
2nd Place – Rohan Sharma – Roseville/So Placer Branch
lOth Grade, Whitney High School, Rocklin
Rohan is a member of WHS Varsity Water Polo and Swim teams, as well as volunteering outside of school for a local congressional candidate. His favorite subjects are History/Government and English. He aspires to attend Stanford University, major in Political Science and become a civil rights attorney. He is also planning for a career in public service.
3rd Place – Chloe Johnson – Stockton Branch
12th Grade, Bear Creek High School, Stockton
Chloe is a member of the Speech and Debate Team, Film Club, and serves as Pres. of Helping Others Today, a community service club on campus. She serves in her school’s student government, and on the Board of Directors for Save Downtown Stockton Foundation. She will be attending Sonoma State, majoring in Criminal Justice, and followed by law school.