President Daniel J. Elsener | Marian University website

The Marian University Speech & Debate Team has once again proven its excellence by securing ninth place overall and fifth place in individual events at the Pi Kappa Delta National Tournament in March 2024. With 69 other schools in attendance at Glendale Community College in Phoenix, Arizona, Marian University's team has maintained its impressive streak of ranking in the top 10 nationally for six consecutive years.

Program Director and Assistant Communication Professor, Drew Stewart, expressed his admiration for the team's consistent success, stating, "Each year I am blown away with the amount of talent and performances as our team is simply exceptional year, after year, after year. Our students exemplify exceptional preparedness, unwavering focus, and remarkable tenacity, embodying the qualities of intelligent leadership. Their diligent efforts consistently reflect in our achievements, and I couldn't be more proud of their accomplishments."

Several team members were recognized for their outstanding performances at the tournament. Bethanie Majewski '24 stood out as the National Champion in Student Scholarship, achieving 3rd place in the nation in Persuasive Speaking, and earning a Superior rating in Interviewing. Charles Russell III '25 was named the National Runner-Up in Poetry Interpretation and received the title of 2024 Rising Star, in addition to an Excellence rating in Interviewing. MariAngel Morales-Aparicio '24 was honored as a 2024 All-American, excelling in Dramatic Interpretation and Reader’s Theatre.

Lydia Shock '24, Natalie Rund '24, Alexandra Rapp '24, Jada Radford '26, and Brooke Paganelli '25 also displayed remarkable talent in various categories, showcasing their skills in events such as Discussion, Duo Interpretation, Prose Interpretation, Broadcast Journalism, and Impromptu Speaking.

The team's achievements have solidified Marian University Speech & Debate Team as a "Program of Excellence," with their dedication and hard work paving the way for success on the national stage.