Tina Wellman, the Chairperson of the Schoharie County Oratorical Contest, is on a mission to shape the next generation of leaders by encouraging young people to engage with the U.S. Constitution through public speaking. Tina, who has been involved with the competition for over 11 years, plays a role in supporting high school students as they prepare for one of the most challenging and rewarding public speaking contests in the nation — the American Legion Oratorical Contest.
Tina Wellman first became involved with the contest when she coached her son, who went on to place third at the New York State level. Since then, her passion for the program has only grown, and over the years, she has coached numerous students, many of whom have gone on to the state competition — one student even reached that level twice. For the past three years, she has held the position of chairperson, succeeding Frank Masterson, a former leader in the contest who passed away, and has continued to guide and inspire students to reach new heights.
The American Legion Oratorical Contest offers students in grades 9-12 the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution through both a prepared oration and an impromptu speech. Participants must deliver a memorized 8-10 minute speech and prepare for a 3-5 minute extemporaneous speech on one of four possible constitutional topics, which is assigned moments before they take the stage. The contest helps students build skills such as critical thinking, clarity of communication, and stage presence.
“This competition is a powerful way for students to not only learn about the Constitution but to develop confidence and poise in public speaking,” said Tina Wellman. “It challenges them to step out of their comfort zones, and the results are often incredible. Watching their transformation as they master their speeches and take control of the stage is so rewarding.”
Tina Wellman’s commitment to the program includes offering personalized coaching to participants. She provides them with valuable strategies for speech memorization, techniques for improving their public speaking, and methods for handling moments of uncertainty on stage. She also teaches students how to maintain their composure if they lose their place during the speech and how to deliver their oration with power and conviction.
“Public speaking is one of the most important skills anyone can develop, and for high school students to take on this challenge is remarkable,” Tina explained. “I work with them not only on memorizing their speeches but on how to present themselves with confidence. It’s about building a skill set that they’ll use for the rest of their lives.”
As Chairperson, Tina has been instrumental in increasing participation in the contest across Schoharie County. She continues to actively recruit students who have an interest in leadership, law, and public speaking while ensuring that every participant has the support they need to succeed. The contest begins at the county level, with students advancing through district and zone competitions before making it to the New York State finals and, potentially, the national stage. At the national level, students compete for scholarship opportunities and national recognition.
Tina encourages all high school students who are interested in civic engagement and developing their public speaking abilities to consider entering the contest. “This contest is a unique and enriching experience that allows students to engage deeply with our Constitution,” she said. “The skills they gain, from critical thinking to leadership, are invaluable.”
Supported by the American Legion, the Oratorical Contest has a long history of promoting constitutional knowledge and encouraging youth development. It has become a significant platform for young people to demonstrate their commitment to understanding and upholding the principles of democracy.
