The West Liberty University Speech and Team took fourth place at the West Virginia Intercollegiate Forensics Association State Tournament, held on March 26 and 27 at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, W.Va.
This was first time West Liberty University has competed at the WVIFA State Tournament, which is only open to colleges and universities within the state of West Virginia. It was also the first time West Liberty has sent a debate team to any competition in more than 25 years.
Ryan McCullough serves as the team’s faculty adviser. “I think it was a fantastic effort by all of the members of the team. I am really looking forward to next year because our students have gained the necessary experience to be strong competitors next year,” McCullough said.
Freshman Anna Patrick’s speech on in-vitro fertilization placed her third in the Persuasive Speaking Competition.
Freshman James Birch’s performance of Chuck Klosterman’s “This is Emo” placed him third in Prose Interpretation. In addition, Birch has qualified to compete at the National Forensic Association’s National Tournament, which will be held at Ohio University from April 15-19.
Sophomore Andrew Simmons and senior Kurt Evans round out the team.