LaTassa Coaches Another Winner

LaTassa (left) pictured with student Bobby Lindsey (right).

September 8, 2014

For many people, standing on a stage, speaking in front of almost 100 people is daunting. After all, public speaking is a common fear.  But for UMD junior Bobby Lindsey, a government and politics major, it’s really no big deal.   Lindsey demonstrated his verbal swagger when he nabbed second place at the WCTU national oratory contest in August in Indianapolis. In front of a swarm of spectators, Lindsey executed an original oration on the dangers of underage drinking. With his Obama-like delivery and commanding presence, Bobby wowed the audience.

“Bobby is an incredibly talented, outstanding speaker,” said Bunny Galladora, WCTU contest coordinator for Maryland. “I am so proud that he represented our state in this competition.”

The competition, which has been taking place for over a decade, has three levels: regional, state, and national. Lindsey, who is coached by IAA Lecturer Nina LaTassa, swept the regional tournament hosted by the IAA at UMD before moving on to take tops at the state tournament. The culmination of his efforts resulted in his presence at the all-expenses-paid national competition in the Hoosier state.

“I’m so happy I got a chance to compete for yet another national title for the speech team,” said Lindsay. “It was an honor, and I had a great time.”

The UMD Speech and Debate Club was initiated and is advised by LaTassa, who is starting her third year at the IAA.  Lindsay, a club member, is in charge of the club’s public relations for the 2014-2015 academic year.

Lindsey’s second-place success is only the beginning of what the team hopes will be a year-long string of speech sweeps. September marks the start of team meetings and greetings for new and old members alike.

“It’s an exciting time for the team,” said the rising junior, who one day hopes to be a prominent attorney. “This will be a great year!”