Speech Trek II Contest results

“How to be a Change Maker Against Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Violence in School”
What can be done about bullying, sexual harassment, and violence in school was the essence of the challenging question asked of the participants in the American Association of University Women’s second annual oratorical contest known locally as Speech Trek II. Open to all high school students in Dearborn, the participants in this formal speech competition were judged for their ability to express how these serious issues have affected their lives and the lives of those around them.

We are happy to announce that the first place winner is Scout Greimel, a 9th grader from Dearborn High. (pictured with her mother, Suzanne Greimel). Scout has won $300 and will be entered in the state-wide competition via a DVD presentation of her speech. The state competition winner will earn $500 and a trip with a chaperone to Escanaba in May where he/she will present the winning speech to those attending the AAUW-Michigan annual convention. Scout’s DVD presentation will also be available on the AAUW-Dearborn and Michigan websites later this spring.

The mission of AAUW-Dearborn is to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. Our vision is to empower all women and girls to reach their highest potential. AAUW-Dearborn President Anne Gautreau commented, “To watch an adolescent stand up and speak with confidence and conviction is to watch a new emerging world. Finding your own voice is the key to integrity and accomplishment.”

The second place winner of $100 is Kristianna Ballnik , a senior from Dearborn High. Third place, $75, went to Fatima Taj, a 9th grader from Fordson. Freshman Reem Alshareef, also from Fordson, earned an Honorable Mention. Rosa Scaramucci, the Speech Trek II Liaison added, “It was evident that all of these young women were deeply passionate about these prevalent issues, but they also put forward many viable solutions to foster change in attitudes and actions. This is why we felt so strongly about bringing this educational opportunity to the community.”