Junior Student Wins Public Speaking Tournament

At the New York State Forensics Championship at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y. the following weekend, Dickinson, a Brentwood, N.Y. native, won second place in dramatic interpretation and program oral interpretation and fifth place in rhetorical criticism and poetry. He placed fourth overall.

Dickinson has been participating in forensic competitions since 2002 and has won more than 60 trophies.

"I like participating in the competitions because they have improved my ability to speak in public," he said. "In addition, the competitions have helped me to develop relationships with other competitors, and they have also been a good networking tool."

Dickinson is currently a host on Plattsburgh State Television's (PSTV) Cardinal Sports. After graduation, he plans to move to the western United States to pursue a career in acting.

"Forensics will help with my plans for the future because I am learning the meaning of words and how to use facial expressions," he said.

Nora A. Montanaro, the forensics coach and lecturer in the communications department at SUNY Plattsburgh said she is very proud of Dickinson's efforts and achievement.

"Dave has a lot of flexibility in his portrayal of different characters," said Montanaro. "He has a solid natural feel for connecting with the audience and adding a touch of realism to his selections."

Forensics is offered as a communication practicum (CMM 202) course. The course involves preparing speeches and performing them at events. Students who do not want to receive credit for the course are welcomed to participate in order to gain public speaking experience.

This year, the group of students involved in the program has received provisional status from the Plattsburgh State Student Association and will soon be a recognized campus club.

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