Newsroom

CORVALLIS, Ore. - Oregon State University's forensics team started off the 2010-11 season with several high scores in the Steve Hunt Classic at Lewis and Clark College in Portland.

The tournament last weekend featured more than 30 schools from across the nation, including El Paso Community College, Boise State University, and St. Mary's College of California.

"That these returning students were able to present quality work against such talented competition is a testament to their work ethic," said Mark Porrovecchio, director of the team. "They have set a high standard for our newcomers."

Senior Dalicia Fennell of Sutherlin, Ore., led the team with fourth place in open prose interpretation and also competed in open impromptu speaking. Senior Loni Sturm of Albany, Ore., took fifth place in open persuasive speaking and was a contestant in open impromptu speaking.  Junior Kyle Bidwell of Sumner, Wash., took fifth place in open impromptu speaking and also competed in open program oral interpretation and open extemporaneous speaking. 

The team was coached by graduate assistants Morgan Mansker, of Sisters, Ore., and Forest Ledbetter of Sheridan, Ore., both of whom are former OSU Forensics Team competitors.

Celebrating its 118th season, OSU Forensics is one of the oldest clubs on campus. The team, open to all students in good academic standing regardless of experience or academic background, has a full slate of tournaments and activities planned for the 2010-2011 season. Students interested in participating, or community members interested in supporting the team, can contact Porrovecchio at mark.porrovecchio@oregonstate.edu.