By Brittany Mobley / EMU
YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan University’s Forensics team has cemented its status as a dominant force in the competitive forensics arena, exemplifying an unparalleled commitment to excellence. Their resounding legacy, competitive prowess, dedicated coaching, and robust alumni support underscore EMU Forensics’ enduring impact in collegiate speech and debate.
With an unwavering dedication to excellence and a storied history of success, the Eastern Michigan University Forensics Team has consistently demonstrated its prowess as a collegiate forensics powerhouse. Notable achievements include:
- Maintained a top 10 national ranking for over four decades.
- Secured 2nd place at the 2023 National Forensics Association Championship, competing against the nation’s elite.
- Clinched victories in Duo Interpretation, Impromptu, and Critical Analysis, among others.
- Benefited from intensive one-on-one coaching sessions, fostering meticulous analysis and strategy refinement to ensure continuous improvement.
- Achieved 11 national championships with the guidance of over 100 alumni coaches.
Legacy:
For over four decades, EMU Forensics has established a legacy of success that is second to none. As one of the founding members of the National Forensic Association, EMU has consistently excelled on the national stage. With 11 national championships and numerous runner-up titles, EMU has maintained its position among the top 10 teams in the nation, solidifying its legacy as a powerhouse in the world of collegiate forensics. “For over four decades, EMU Forensics has upheld a legacy of excellence that stands as a testament to our commitment to the art of forensics,” said Ray Quiel, former EMU forensics director and inductee into the EMU Forensic Hall of Fame. “We have consistently ranked among the nation’s top 10 teams, with 11 national championships and numerous runner-up titles, making EMU a true powerhouse in collegiate forensics.”
Competitive Excellence:
The EMU Forensics team’s competitive prowess is exemplified by their recent accomplishments, including a 2nd place finish at the 2023 National Forensics Association Championship, where they competed against the best teams in the nation. Additionally, they secured 4th place at the 2023 American Forensic Association National Speech Tournament. This achievement reaffirms their dedication and talent, cementing their status as one of the nation’s top forensics teams. “Our recent 2nd place finish at the 2023 National Forensics Association Championship is a testament to the hard work and talent that define our team,” said Cedrick Charles, senior team leader who is majoring in economics and political science.
Standout Performances:
The team’s recent victories at tournaments hosted by Doane University and Ferris State University further highlight their excellence. At these events, performances included freshman Jason Folk’s victories in Duo Interpretation and Impromptu, as well as senior Kate Inman’s win in the Critical Analysis category. Junior Louise Engohang, with her masterful display in Critical Analysis, and junior Hannah Ihrig, with her prowess in Informative Speaking, also secured top spots. These accomplishments demonstrate the depth of talent within the EMU Forensics team.
Coaching:
Behind EMU Forensics’ success lies a dedicated coaching team that provides invaluable support to the students. Coaches offer one-on-one sessions, meticulous performance analysis, and strategy refinement to enhance each student’s skills. This rigorous coaching process focuses on storytelling and effective communication, ensuring that students deliver compelling narratives.
Alumni Support:
EMU Forensics is fortunate to have a network of more than 100 alumni coaches who continue to contribute to the team’s success. These alumni have gone on to direct and coach teams at over 25 colleges and universities, further solidifying EMU’s influence on the development of modern forensics. The unwavering support of EMU Forensics alumni has been instrumental in sustaining the team’s legacy.
Looking Forward:
As the EMU Forensics team looks ahead to the American Forensics Association and National Forensics Association competitions scheduled at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, and Central Michigan University in April, they remain committed to strategic planning, individualized coaching, and continuous improvement. Their journey is marked not only by competitive success but also by the profound connections and camaraderie that define the EMU Forensics experience.
“These moments of unity and togetherness serve as a testament to the profound connections fostered within the team, adding an emotional dimension to my journey as a team member,” said Charles.
For more information about Eastern Michigan University’s Forensics team and their achievements, please visit the website.
About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University’s Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University’s website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.
