Denmark Technical College Oratorical Society wins top honors at Newberry College Speech and Debate Competition
February 27, 2025
Denmark Technical College Oratorical Society wins top honors at Newberry College Speech and Debate Competition The Denmark Technical College Oratorical Society delivered a strong performance at the Newberry College Speech and Debate Competition, earning multiple awards and securing full-ride scholarships for three students.
Tanaejah Odom took home top honors, winning first place in Impromptu Speaking, second place in Original Oratory and the prestigious Triathlon Trophy for overall excellence. Asia Newsome placed third in the Lincoln-Douglas Debate, highlighting the strength of Denmark Tech’s debate program. As a result of their achievements, Riniyah Daniels, Asia Newsome and Tanaejah Odom were awarded renewable, full-ride scholarships to Newberry College.
DTC Oratorical Sociaty
“This competition was both challenging and rewarding. It allowed us to push our limits and prove that Denmark Technical College students can compete with the best,” said Daniels.
“Going into the competition, I was a little nervous but as soon as I stepped up to speak, the nerves disappeared, the coaching I received played in my mind and I was just ready to compete,” added Newsome.
Their success reinforces the value of speech and debate as an academic and professional development tool. Denmark Technical College students continue to demonstrate their ability to excel in competitive environments, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to fostering leadership potential and curating essential skills.
“Being part of this program has given me direction and helped me find my passion. Receiving this scholarship is a life-changing opportunity and I’m beyond grateful for the experience,” said Odom.
Other members of the team include Miracle Brooks, Amir Dickerson, Ta’Keyo Evans, Zakeya Jones and Jasmine Mobley. Shannon Sims-Mcalister, Steve Britanak and Bryson Scott are faculty and staff sponsors of the club.
“These students have demonstrated extraordinary dedication and talent. Their success underscores the mission of Denmark Technical College to ‘engage, educate and empower,’” said Shannon Sims-McAllister, faculty sponsor and head coach of the Oratorical Society.
“The Oratorical Society’s achievements are a shining example of the excellence and perseverance we, as an HBCU, champion at Denmark Technical College. Their success is a prime example of the wealth of opportunities available to our students and the unwavering support they receive to help them excel at the highest levels,” added Willie L. Todd Jr., Ph.D., president and CEO.
Denmark Technical College students continue to make strides in competitive academic settings. The Oratorical Society’s recent success at Newberry College adds to a growing list of achievements. Speech and debate competitions serve as a valuable training ground, helping students develop communication and analytical skills that will benefit them in their academic and professional careers.
“This is more than just a competition. The skills these students have developed, critical thinking, effective communication and self-confidence, will serve them in every facet of their lives moving forward. Their dedication and talent have been evident throughout their journey and I have no doubt these abilities will open doors for them in the future,” said Sims-McAllister.
About Denmark Technical College
Denmark Technical College is a two-year HBCU in rural Bamberg County, South Carolina. With a mission to engage, educate and empower students, Denmark Tech serves over 1000 enthusiastic learners, focusing on technical career training, associate degrees and a four-year college transfer program. Additional information about Denmark Tech can be found at www.denmarktech.edu.
