Marietta College has named Katie Taylor ’26 and Kanae Yoshida ’26 as the winners of the 2026 Jewett Speech Competition, one of the College’s oldest Commencement traditions.
A Health Science major, Taylor earned first place for her oration “This Is It,” while Yoshida, a Communication Studies major, received second place for her oration “Knocking on The Door.” Representing the Class of 2026, both students will deliver their speeches at the College’s Commencement ceremony on May 9.
The Jewett Prize traces its roots to Marietta College’s founding in 1835, when each graduate delivered an address at Commencement. Today, that legacy endures through a competitive process that selects two graduating seniors to deliver Commencement addresses on behalf of their class. Jewett Prize winners also receive a cash award. The honor reflects both academic achievement and the ability to communicate with clarity, purpose, and impact.
“Commencement at Marietta College would not be complete without the graduating student speeches. The Jewett Speech Competition plays a central role in selecting those voices,” said Dr. Cheongmi Shim, assistant professor and basic course director in the Communication Department. “The Communication Department is proud to host this distinguished event, which highlights the talent and dedication of our students. This year’s competition was exceptional, with each contestant offering thoughtful reflections, personal experiences, and compelling visions for the future—demonstrating both their individual achievements and the strength of the Marietta College community.”
Held April 1, this year’s competition featured five student finalists who presented original speeches before a panel of faculty from various academic disciplines, students appointed by the Student Government Association and administrators. Judges evaluated each oration on content, delivery, and the ability to connect meaningfully with an audience.
Taylor, a native of Parkersburg, West Virginia, is graduating with a minor in Health Communication. She is also a member of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority.
“I was inspired to write this speech as I faced the rapidly approaching conclusion to my time at Marietta College, which allowed me to recognize the value of each moment,” said Taylor. “I hope that my message encourages my classmates to move forward with intention and embrace every opportunity that they are given, no matter how small.”
Yoshida, originally from Japan, leads the International Student Union and Anime Club and volunteers in both the Office of Student Connections and Outreach and the Office of Marketing and Communication.
“Being selected as a Jewett winner feels like the final result of my Communication degree,” said Yoshida. “One of the main reasons I came to the U.S. was to learn speech and presentation skills. I am very grateful for the chance to create a final product from everything I learned and experienced at Marietta College and to share it with others.”
Public speaking remains a cornerstone of the Marietta College experience. Through foundational coursework, collaboration, and hands-on opportunities, Marietta students develop essential skills in communication, argumentation, and critical thinking. Graduates leave prepared to present ideas with confidence, lead with purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
As Taylor and Yoshida prepare to take the Commencement stage, they continue a tradition shared by generations of Pioneers.
The Jewett Speech Competition is organized by Dr. Cheongmi Shim and Professor Ann Nicely of the Communication Department. For more information about the Jewett Prize, visit marietta.edu/jewett-prize.