Local Heroes: Midland University's Speech & Debate Team Clinches State Title Again

Midland University's speech and debate team has retained its Division III state championship at the Nebraska Intercollegiate Forensics Association State Tournament. The event took place at Doane University in Crete, with teams from various Nebraska universities participating. Midland University performed well against other Division III schools. Adam Knowlton, Professor of Communications and Director of Forensics, commended the students' enthusiasm and the competition's format that acknowledges smaller teams.

The students participated in 11 categories. Kari Van Nostrand and Eddie Schweikert were Midland's top performers, ranking seventh in Duo Interpretation. The team has shown consistent performance, including a 17th-place finish at the 2023 national competition. Knowlton thanked the team's seniors for their leadership.

Eddie Schweikert was a finalist for the Spirit of NIFA Award, which recognizes positive contributions to the event. The team includes Schweikert, Van Nostrand, Mica Rigotti, Kiera Gregg, Alex Wight, Sarah Murray, Sydnee Wenninghoff, Jenna Pool, and Mika Dooley.

The team is now preparing for the Pi Kappa Delta National Tournament and Convention in Glendale, Arizona, from March 7-11. Knowlton sees the state meet as a valuable chance for the team to refine their skills for the national competition.

In summary, Midland University's speech and debate team has successfully defended its Division III state championship. The team is now preparing for the national competition, aiming for a top 15 finish.

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