Donnelly Wins Speech League's Student of the Year Award

Editor's note: This a press release.

The National Forensic League's Speech and Debate Honor Society honored Kevin Donnelly of West Roxbury with the top prize in New England on Saturday at the annual NFL Qualifiers tournament, held at Manchester High School.

Donnelly, captain of 's speech and debate team, joined eight of CM's top speakers at the qualifying tournament on Saturday, where Mark Woodall of West Roxbury and Marcus Jackson of Randolph made it to final rounds and Jackson was selected as a Nationals alternate in the category of Dramatic Interpretation.

But the day's top honor was Donnelly's. The senior co-captain was recognized for his four years of outstanding work and devotion to the craft of public speaking. Having earned a staggering 1,252 points in dozens of tournaments during his time at CM, Donnelly has also competed at two Nationals - the 2010 NCFL nationals in Omaha and the 2011 NFL nationals in Dallas. For three consecutive years, he has earned the "Double Entry Award" at Natick High's Holly Fest Tournament.

"As a competitor, Kevin has achieved tremendously," said head coach Rob Croteau. "During his four years as a member, he has reached Outstanding Distinction in the NFL and should accumulate more than 1,500 points – a great feat."