While Butler University basked in the media glow of its NCAA Final Four Cinderella story, closer to home, the Gustavus forensics team is in the midst of yet another amazing season. On Easter Sunday, the forensics team accomplished the unimaginable feat of placing in the top ten at the American Forensics Association National Individual Events Tournament. Going up against larger teams with five times the travel budget, ten times the coaching staff and full-ride scholarships for the most talented students in the nation, the Gustavus forensics team, through sheer hard work and determination, competed side-by-side with perennial powerhouses like Bradley University, George Mason University and the University of Texas, Austin. Unfortunately, the celebration of this remarkable achievement was muted by a smear campaign that cost one of our finest students an All-American title, but the team, true a its character and integrity, has remained above the pettiness and vindictiveness of this incident.
This week, the forensics team is competing in another national tournament, one where team size is factored in, and will do the College proud again. If you know a members of the team, congratulate them and wish them luck in their continuing endeavors on behalf of the College.
Leila Brammer, Professor of communication studies
Ms. Brammer is correct that GAC has a remarkable speech team, but fails to mention the scholarship amount bestowed upon some of the team’s speakers–an amount at least around 12/13 thousand or more to some of the best (particularly state champions).
Is it not a bit ironic that the group of students tried to protect the college’s reputation, and in doing so, ultimately broke the rules and violated the freedom of the press, acts which led to the smear campaign?
Professor, look to the source. If the students had allowed for the freedom of the press, the smear campaign would’ve never happened. It is very honorable of you to make aware that Mary should have won the award, though.
Ms. Brammer knows a lot about smear tactics. Just ask any of her new communication studies hires in the last 5 yrs. Not many around to ask.