Oratorical Contest
The purpose of The American Legion’s National High School Oratorical Contest is to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. Other objectives of the contest include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently, and the preparation for acceptance of the duties and responsibilities, the rights and privileges of American citizenship.
Start an Oratorical Contest for your children at your Post.
Why get involved in the American Legion Oratorical program? Watch this short video.
2026 American Legion’s National High School Oratorical Contest Winners
Champion Juliet Hetzel of Colorado Springs, CO
Prepared Speech Assigned Topic Speech
1st Runner-Up Wendy Gluski of Scottsdale, AZ 
Member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 129
Prepared Speech Assigned Topic Speech
2nd Runner-Up Judah Donnelly of Clarks Summit, PA
Prepared Speech Assigned Topic Speech
- Champion: Juliet Hetzel (Colorado Springs, CO) – Won a $25,000 scholarship + $2000 for making it to the Simi finals + State Level prizes.
- 1st Runner-Up: Wendy Gluski (Scottsdale, AZ) – Won a $22,500 scholarship + $2000 for making it to the Simi finals + State Level prizes.
- 2nd Runner-Up: Judah Donnelly (Clarks Summit, PA) – Won a $20,000 scholarship + $2000 for making it to the Simi finals + State Level prizes.
A full list of the 53 state-level contestants, along with further details, can be reviewed on the American Legion Oratorical Contest portal.
CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION
The American Legion National Oratorical Contest is a Youth Program of the Americanism Division of The American Legion National Organization.
For more information about the program:
Oratorical Competition Information Request(Opens in a new window)
For local information, contact Craig Barnes, Area A Oratorical Committee Chairman, 602-469-1225
Gallery: 2026 National Oratorical Contest Finals