SE, NE promote forensics
by Julia Mims, reporter

    The arguments one might hear in the halls of SE or NE campuses come not from disgruntled students but from future debaters.

    Looking around at other two-year colleges, Stephen Brown, SE speech teacher, saw many forensics programs. In fall 1999, he decided it was time for SE to implement a program, so he began his forensics class.

    This course is divided into three areas: debate, oral interpretation and public speaking.

    Brown describes his class as a way a student can better understand himself or herself through learning the art of communication.

    “It is fun watching the progression that takes place within the students,” he said.

    Lisa Benedetti, NE speech instructor, began her forensics class this spring because of the passion she has for her job.

    “Forensics is more than just a class,” she said.

    Both classes focus on having helpful and open atmospheres, where everyone is there to give positive feedback and experience.

    “Forensics is an incredible experience and a great opportunity to meet people,” Benedetti said. “Our philosophy is centered on our students’ improving and learning from their experiences.”

    Forensics focuses on developing students’ communication skills. As a part of the development, students compete in tournaments.

    Tournaments give students a chance to come into their own in an area of great interest for them, Benedetti said.

    The perception people have can sometimes cause a misunderstanding.

    “When people think of forensics, they picture debating in front of hundreds of people, but that figure is a little off,” she said. “In a tournament, it is more like a crowd of six.”

    Benedetti said that once she gets students to their first tournament they are hooked.

    The NE Campus and Benedetti have received the prestigious honor of holding the next Phi Rho Pi National Tournament. Phi Rho Pi is the largest speech organization in the United States.

    Both teachers encourage students to join one of the forensics groups. They believe that experience will not only teach lifelong communication and presentational skills but also help students gain competence and confidence.

    Jani Rogers, SE speech and drama department chair, said, “Speech is a life skill that will benefit any student no matter what career is chosen.”