High Schools and home school students participate in our American Legion Oratorical Contest to better understand the U.S. Constitution, as well as the rights and privileges of American citizenship. Winners of post competition compete in a district contest. All winners from the many districts in Division III gather for a Division competition with the hope of continuing on to win at the division level and a $100 division scholarship. One person from division competition wins for the state and represents the state in national competition.

For the national contest winners, scholarships are significant.  First place award is $18,000 and the next two finishers receive $15,000.  Other national competition first round contestants receive at $1,500 scholarship.

The total amount provided for scholarships exceeded $138,000 in previous years. This is our 76th competition.  Over $3 million dollars in scholarships have been awarded since the contest started.

The Oratorical Contest started in 1934 in Missouri as a means to strengthen knowledge of the U.S. Constitution.

The contest presents participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation’s laws, the ability to think and speak clearly, and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. Learn more

Interested in seeing a video of last year’s contestants in action?  It is a good way to prepare for this contest, as competition is extremely keen.  Learn more

Granta Grayton, Div III Oratorical Chairwoman

Alex Werden and Steffanee Powell