Speech Trek is a speaking contest open to all California high school students.  It is organized by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) to promote public speaking and leadership skills.

Addison Horn, a senior at Placer High School in Auburn, won First Place in the Auburn Chapter AAUW contest that was held on February 25 of this year, earning her $500.  Annabel Easton, also of Placer High School, was the second-place winner, and she received a check for $300.  Aubree Garcia of Del Oro High School was the Third Place winner, and she received a check for $200.

Our first place winner, Addison, went on to win the State competition in 2024!

Check out her impressive speech here

2025 SPEECH TREK CONTEST 

Change of Date for Speech Trek: Fall of 2024
We had to change the date for our Fall of 2024 Speech Trek from this coming Sunday, October 27 to December 8. The event will still be held in the Beecher Room of the Auburn Library, and it will start at 4:00.
We apologize deeply for the inconvenience, but this difficult decision was prompted by many logistical challenges, including working around student schedules for traveling, sports, and exams.
The good news is that the students are diving into the research about climate change, and they are motivated to write and present their findings. The group meeting with our speech coach was well received, and now the students will have more time to further their research and to polish their delivery.
Thank you for your understanding and support

This year’s Topic:

“Climate change is happening.  The effects are widespread and touch upon almost all aspects of our life on this planet.  Select one area of impact and explore the effect climate change is having on women in the USA, and around the world.”

Background

The adverse effects of climate change are well studied in relation to agriculture, ecosystems, water resources, human health, and industry, especially in geographical locations that are economically dependent on local natural resources.

Many studies also highlight climate change in terms of impact to economics.  But do any reports identify any disproportionate effects on women?  Is women’s health more vulnerable to environmental changes?

Many companies claim their bottom line is impacted by the cost of climate change legislation.  Does this have an impact on women’s career and leadership opportunities?

If there are disparities in any of these areas, how does that change the way you look at climate change?

Auburn Area Prizes

First Prize                  $600

Second Prize            $400

Third Prize                 $300

Fourth Prize              $250

Fifth Prize                  $200

California State Prizes

First Prize                  $2,500

Second Prize            $2,000

Third Prize                 $1,000

Fourth Prize              $500

Fifth Prize                  $500

 Coaching Resources:
Registered students will have access to a list of writing coaches and speaking coaches from our community.  There is no cost for the coaching, and meetings can take place at your school or the Auburn Library.

For more information, contact Susan Roughgarden or email auburnaauw@gmail.com