Compete in public speaking competition to win a cash prize

The Warren A. Guthrie Competition recognizes the university’s most outstanding undergraduate public speakers. All Case Western Reserve University undergraduate students are eligible to compete for the Guthrie prizes.

Contestants deliver a short talk—approximately three to five minutes in length. Students can find inspiration designing their presentations by watching TEDx, Ignite or PechaKucha presentation styles.

Cash prizes will be awarded for the best presentations:

  • First prize: $500
  • Second prize: $300
  • Third prize: $200

To enter:

  • Complete the registration form.
  • Record your presentation using Zoom or another application, and then share the link to your recording or upload your recording to your Google Drive and share the link using your CWRU credentials.

All submissions, including recordings of your speech, must be emailed to bakernord@case.edu by April 15.

Suggestions as you prepare your speech:

  • Choose a topic that will be of interest to a broad general audience.
  • You should be fluent in your topic, but you do not need to be an expert.
  • You do not need to present on an academic subject. In fact, you may find it easier to craft a stirring speech about another one of your passions. Extracurricular, volunteer and social justice experiences can all make for inspiring orations.
  • Remember to practice your talk before you record your final version. Recording yourself as you practice is an excellent way to identify where you can improve for the final recording that you submit.