Youth from across Illinois gathered on April 25 to compete in the Illinois 4-H State Public Speaking Contest at Parkland College in Champaign.
The event brought together top young speakers who advanced through county-level competitions. Participants developed skills such as organizing ideas and delivering speeches before live audiences while receiving feedback from judges and peers. Cindy Ogwal, University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development specialist, said, “Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills young people can develop. Through experiences like this, youth build confidence, learn to organize their thoughts, and gain the ability to clearly communicate ideas that matter.”
The contest included four divisions: formal speech, illustrated speech, original works, and oral interpretation. Each division allowed participants to present individually or as a team in beginner (ages 8–13) or advanced (ages 14 and older) categories. The Inspire Award recognized unique presentations with high-quality delivery or impact.
Winners were named in each category. In the formal beginner division, Samuel McGruder of McDonough County was champion; Aynsleigh Shelton of Madison County was reserve champion; Aubrey Boas of Champaign County received the Inspire Award. In the formal advanced division, Kyndall Bennett of Shelby County was champion; Jillyn Stoks of St. Clair County was reserve champion; Josie Featherlin of Fulton County received the Inspire Award.
Ogwal said about participants’ efforts: “What stood out most was the authenticity and courage these youth brought to the stage. They’re not just practicing speeches—they’re finding their voice, sharing their perspectives, and developing leadership skills that will serve them well into the future.”
County staff coordinate advancement to state level with each county able to send up to three entries. The contest is supported by Compeer Financial and the Illinois 4-H Foundation.
According to the official website, the University of Illinois contributes to economic and societal progress through education and research efforts as a public research institution situated in Urbana-Champaign. It serves as flagship campus for its system while enrolling students from all U.S states and over 100 countries with more than 150 undergraduate programs offered alongside over 100 graduate programs.The university aims to advance discovery through innovation and public engagement.
