2021 Delaware American Legion
Oratorical Scholarship Contest

“A constitutional speech contest”

The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1938, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation’s laws, the ability to think and speak clearly, and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. The program has featured numerous politicians and prominent contestants over the years, including former president candidate Alan Keyes and CNN anchor Lou Dobbs.

The overall national contest winner gets an $18,000 scholarship. Second place takes home $16,000, and third gets $14,000. Each department (state) winner who is certified into and participates in the national contest’s first round receives a $1,500 scholarship. Those who advance past the first round receive an additional $1,500 scholarship. The American Legion’s National Organization awards the scholarships, which can be used at any college or university in the United States.

Student Eligibility:

• A Citizen of or lawful permanent resident of the United States.
• Enrolled in a High School or Junior High School of the State of Delaware.

(High School enrollment is defined as attending a public, parochial, military, private, or state accredited home school.)

Other Rules and Information:

• Student must be sponsored by a Delaware American Legion Post before moving on to the State Finals
• Must have a "prepared oration," as per the National Rules (See Below for Topics).
• The Assigned Topic List is contained in the Official Rules (reproduced below) for the student to study.
• The State of Delaware rules are the same as the National Rules.

The 2021 Oratorical Scholarship Contest Committee

2016 Oratorical Contestants:
Liam O'Connor - Post 18 member SAL
Shreyas Parab - Post 10
Eric Long - Post 29
Owen Riley - Post 29
Marle Rodrigus - Post 25
Paige Minutola - Post 25

Apply Here for the 2021 Delaware American Legion Oratorical Scholarship Contest

Email completed Form to: oratorcial@delegion.org

OR Mail to:

Department Oratorical Chairman

Wilmington, DE 19803