by Kiesha Lamb ’12

2009 Forensics Team

Bethel’s forensics team wrapped up another successful season with senior David Dickmeyer receiving an All-American Award from the National Parliamentary Debate Association; freshman Kelly Snyder winning a national championship in poetry; and four second place finishes and a second place team trophy in the entry division at Christian College Nationals.

The season has helped the 12 forensics team members, and 25-30 other students who participate to meet departmental or class requirements, gain experience that is preparing them for many different pursuits after college. At least one-third of forensics students have gone on to graduate work, with several earning Ph.D.s and some earning multiple master’s degrees.

The team practices every week and works on a variety of speeches. Some students have to be knowledgeable about current events, sifting through important news that could possibly be the focus of a debate resolution at the next meet. Other students work on the intricacies of their performance in events such as Readers’ Theater, persuasive speaking, and in other events. Bethel’s team competes in 15 different kinds of speaking events.

Dreher, who has led the team for 12 years, is proud of the way the team is salt and light in the speech and debate world. “This team tries to be an example to Christians and non-Christians,” says Michael Dreher, forensics director, “as we recognize the image in which we carry ourselves has to reflect Christ.”

“Out of all of Bethel's extracurricular activities, I truly believe that the forensics team is the most beneficial for its participants in the long run,” says sophomore Allison York. “Nothing will help you in real-world situations like the ability to use your mind and speaking abilities to their fullest potential.”

Forensics is open to students from all majors at Bethel. “The Bethel Forensics Team has something to offer for everyone,” says freshman Matthew Anderson.