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The success of Bradley Speech embodies the benefits of student organizations

Last weekend, the Bradley University Speech Team (BUST) took fourth place at the 46th annual American Forensics Association National Speech Tournament. 

Speech has a long history of success at Bradley. To date, the program has 42 national championships, more than any other college program in any activity or sport in the country.

Team President Rodrigo Trujillo ranked first among all individual speakers, scoring 162 of the team’s 356 points. Trujillo became the first Bradley speaker to win an individual sweepstakes national title since 2017. 

BUST is not only defined by its success, but they pride themselves on being a diverse group of individuals that embodies a family environment. Everyone is welcome, and the team makes sure all members feel at home.

Speech also encourages a platform for activism. BUST allows each student to pick the topic they speak about. Each performance is personal to the speaker, and many of them desire to bring lasting change with their speeches.

There are plenty of opportunities for creativity in the activity. Whether it be acting, public speaking or a combination of the two, however an individual wants to perform, speech allows for it. 

Being on the team comes with its benefits. They receive scholarships for their participation, as well as traveling around the world. This year, they’ve visited Texas, Alabama, North Carolina and even South Korea.

BUST is the definition of a successful organization here on the Hilltop. They work hard and it shows with the accolades they bring home. 

The Scout wishes them luck as they travel to Detroit for their final competition of the season, the National Forensics Association National Championship Tournament.

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