The Sherman Speech Prize competition is one of the oldest traditions at University School. Mrs. Henry Sherman established The Sherman Prize Speaking Contest in 1904 in memory of her son, George Benedict Sherman, a member of the class of 1903.
The contest is offered in the second semester of junior year in which all eleventh graders are required to write a speech on a topic of their choice. The speeches are presented in class and graded, but students then have the option to compete for the Sherman Prize. Contestants deliver their speeches before a panel of three judges drawn from the University School faculty. The six finalists, who are chosen from this group, have one week to prepare for the final competition before a panel of outside judges. Last year’s judge panel even included a former Chicago Bulls Basketball Player.
It is always interesting to see what the finalists have to offer. Speeches differ year to year but there are some general recurring themes. Usually there is a speech about one’s personal struggles. Some of the most compelling speeches consist of stories of racial discrimination. Generally, the best speeches include an individual overcoming extreme circumstances, a relatable sense of humor, a good use of metaphor, or simply an understandable and important message. Every year, however, we look for the speaker who brings something new to the podium—a difficult task after over 100 years of this speaking competition. Last year, Chaz Whitfield did just that when he rapped his entire speech on stage purely from memory. His delivery and content were both phenomenal, captivating the student body for its entire duration. Unfortunately, to the dismay of many students, he was awarded second place. However, we look forward to see who will pick up the mantle from this year’s junior class.