4-Way Test Speech Contest
The Rotary Student 4-Way Test Speech Contest
Finals Apri 26, 2025 at Old Saybrook High School
This weekend’s 4-Way Speech Finals event at Old Saybrook High School was phenomenal. Choosing just one finalist was incredibly difficult, as all participants were amazing. The morning began with a wonderful performance by Diego Carneiro, a master cellist and Rotary Peace Fellow. Following him was High School Junior Kellyn Kolber, last year’s 4-Way Test Speech Contest winner. Kellyn revisited her impactful speech from last year on the use of social media among children. She shared how this idea evolved into creating a newsletter aimed at educating parents on social media, its effects on youth, and relevant legislation. She graciously credited Rotary for providing the platform that helped her develop and bring this initiative to life.
To subscribe to her newsletter: https://digital-parenting-b2ghek.mailerpage.io/
Nancy Morin
The Rotary Student 4-Way Test Speech Contest is an essay or speech competition designed for high school students. It encourages students to apply the principles of Rotary's 4-Way Test to real-life situations and present their thoughts in a compelling manner. The contest aims to promote ethical decision-making, critical thinking, and public speaking skills among students.
Participants are asked to choose a topic and create a 7-minute speech that answers the following questions:
1. Is it the Truth?
2. Is it Fair to all concerned?
3. Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships?
4. Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?
The contest provides a platform for students to express their ideas and advocate for positive change, while also gaining valuable experience in public speaking and leadership.
One student will be chosen to represent Old Saybrook Rotary in the semifinals. At the semifinals, 4 students will then continue on to compete at the finals.
Competition Dates:
March 3, 6 pm, Acton Library, Competition Lyme/Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook students to represent Old Saybrook Rotary in the semifinals
March 22nd, 10 am, Norwich, semifinals
April 26, 9 am – 12 pm, Old Saybrook High School Finals
Awards:
· 1st place winner at the finals will receive $500
· 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place winners will receive $250
Overall, winning the 4-Way Test Speech Conference is a testament to one’s ability to articulate ideas effectively while upholding high ethical standards, making it a prestigious achievement.
