November 11, 2015

SVSU students shine in Sims Public Speaking Competition

Six Saginaw Valley State University students took honors for their research and speaking skills during the 26th annual Sims Public Speaking Competition at SVSU Friday, Nov. 6.

Eric Breidinger, a communication major from Auburn, took home top honors for his speech, “Ground Water Chuck: The Cost of Beef Addiction.” He received a $400 prize.

Jaeleen Davis, a criminal justice major from Burt, finished in second place after her speech, “Wigs 4 Kids: Servicing Children with Hair Loss.” She received a $200 prize.

Third place went to Austin Bauer, a communication major from Linwood, for his speech titled, “The Harms of Pornography.” He won a $100 prize.

Three students took home finalist honors. Each received $50 prizes. They were:
•    Natalie Currie, a pre-occupational therapy major from Greenwood Township in St. Clair County, for her speech, “‘22 Until None.’ Suicide in the Military.”
•    Melinda Dinninger, a communication major from Saginaw, for her speech, “Essure.”
•    Megan Hillman, a social work major from Port Huron, for her speech, “Why We Need Life Skills Classes in High School.”

The Sims Public Speaking Competition began in 1981; it is co-sponsored by SVSU’s Department of Communication and is open to all SVSU students. The competition is endowed by Larry and Linda Sims, long-time donors to the university; Linda recently was appointed senior executive assistant to the president/executive director for communications and external affairs at SVSU. Contestants are required to write an original persuasive speech of 5 to 8 minutes in length.

A photo of the winners and finalists is attached.  From left: SVSU students Natalie Currie, Melinda Dinninger, Megan Hillman, Austin Bauer, Jaeleen Davis, and Erik Breidinger.