The Bethel forensics squad earned the top small school award for forensics in the state Feb. 18-19 at the State of Kansas Individual Events and Parliamentary Debate tournaments. Squad members earned 17 awards, including three sweepstakes awards. In individual events, Bethel placed first among the six small schools competing and third overall. In debate competition, Bethel earned first place overall as best in the state.
Ten members of the team participated in the tournament, competing against 10 other colleges and universities. Their performance in individual events placed them ahead of five other institutions in the “small school” category: Baker University, Hesston College, Kansas Wesleyan, Ottawa University and Washburn University.
Lindsey Miller, senior from Haven, was named state champion in informative speaking. Justin Shook, junior from Lyons, placed second in communication analysis, fifth in after dinner speaking and sixth in extemporaneous speaking. Shannon Carey, sophomore from Moundridge, placed second in impromptu speaking and third in after dinner speaking. Robert Weaver, junior from Wichita, placed second in extemporaneous speaking and third in impromptu speaking. Becky Schulz, freshman from Newton, placed fifth in extemporaneous speaking. Bethany McElhiney, junior from Wichita, placed sixth in prose interpretation.
The debate team of Lindsey Miller and Peter Miller, sophomore from Haven, were the state champions in debate, going undefeated. Peter was named the top debate speaker.
Becky Schultz and Cory Buchta, sophomore from Newton, earned third place in team competition, while Robert placed fourth overall in individual speaking.