AAUW Speech Trek 2009

American Association of University Women, Davis Branch announces our winner and runner-up for
Speech Trek Competition January 31, 2009



Pictured from left are:
Judith Plank, Toastmaster and judge AAUW Davis President Rhonda Reed, Runner-up Katrina Sabatier,
Winner Manraj Dhesi, and Mayor Ruth Asmundson, judge.

AAUW Davis President Rhonda Reed, opened the program as 18 friends and members gathered for the presentation. She gave a history of Speech Trek, talked of the goals of AAUW, and explained how the judging would occur. There were two students from DHS, Katrina Sabatier and Manraj Dhesi. Adam Bridge videotaped the speeches, and Jan Bridge assured sound quality. There were two judges, Mayor Ruth Asmundson, and Toastmistress Judy Plank. This year’s topic was “Gender Equity in Education.” Each student was expected to talk for five minutes without notes. Katrina spoke first and gave reasons why gender-separate classes in math and science should be instituted for grades seven and eight. Manraj discussed the difference between equality and equity, and pointed out how violence and cultural practices hinder equity for girls and women. The judges selected Manraj Dhesi for First Place ($200 and his presentation entered in the Northern District contest). Katrina Sabatier received $100. Both students were given helpful critiques from the judges and enthusiastic applause from the audience. Rhonda gave each a bouquet, and thanks for their hard work and a chance to appreciate the issue of gender equity from a young person’s viewpoint.