Greenwood High School sophomore Jaylin Smith won first place in the Thompson-Clemmons American Legion Post 200 oratorical contest.
Smith, who competed against three other contestants Sunday, earned the top spot after giving two near-flawless speeches. Her first speech was eight and a half minutes on women’s suffrage. Her second speech, an assigned topic that contestants were given five minutes to prepare for, was on Article 1, Section 9, Claus 2 of the Constitution, which deals with habeas corpus — a legal action where detainees can seek relief from unlawful imprisonment.
This is Smith’s second year participating in the contest. She was awarded second place last year.
Smith, the daughter of Angela Smith, said winning first place in the contest has been one of her dreams.
“Speaking is my passion, and it feels good to see other people recognize the love I have for public speaking,” she said.
Smith was awarded the Gold Patrick Henry Oratory lapel pin and a $300 scholarship. She will go on to compete in the regional oratorical contest in February.
Second place was awarded to Amanda Elzy High School senior Solomon Brown, who received the Silver Patrick Henry Oratory lapel pin and a $200 scholarship. Brown will also compete in the regional contest.
Elzy student Kyla Cole placed third and received a $100 scholarship. GHS ninth-grader Jimeya Mayes placed fourth and received a $50 scholarship.
The constitutional speech contest has been held by the American Legion for more than 75 years. It is designed to foster the development of a deeper understanding and appreciation in high school students for the duties of citizenship under the Constitution of the United States of America.
The contest includes the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently and the preparation for acceptance of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizens.
