Ivey honors Alabama's Oratorical champion at State Capitol
Gov. Kay Ivey recognizes Prestley Skelton's State title and national appearance, highlighting constitutional education and civic leadership
Governor Kay Ivey recognized Jasper High School graduate Prestley Skelton last week for winning the 2026 American Legion Department of Alabama High School Oratorical Contest, honoring her achievement during a ceremony at the Alabama State Capitol.
The July 16 ceremony celebrated Skelton's State championship and her opportunity to represent Alabama at the American Legion National Oratorical Contest at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. The competition challenges high school students to demonstrate their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution through prepared speeches and assigned-topic presentations while competing for college scholarships.
Skelton advanced through local, district and State competitions before earning the Alabama title. She then joined 52 other State champions from across the nation at the national finals, where contestants competed for more than $203,000 in scholarships. Every certified State champion received a $2,000 scholarship for advancing to the national contest, with additional awards available for semifinalists and finalists.
According to the American Legion Department of Alabama, the Governor's award recognized not only Skelton's success in competition but also the broader purpose of the Oratorical Contest: teaching young Americans about the Constitution and encouraging responsible citizenship.
The American Legion's National Oratorical Contest has operated since 1938 and is now in its 87th year. The program aims to strengthen students' understanding of constitutional government while developing public speaking, leadership and civic engagement skills. Since its founding, it has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to participants nationwide.
The Department also recognized Willie Rogers, immediate past Department Commander and Chairman of the Department Oratorical Commission, for his continued leadership of Alabama's program.
State Rep. Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham) also participated in the Capitol ceremony. Paschal serves on The American Legion's National Americanism Council, which oversees the organization's constitutional education and citizenship programs.
The Department thanked the volunteers, educators, American Legion Posts, Districts and Divisions that organize the annual competition, along with Skelton's family, teachers and mentors for supporting her throughout the contest.
The American Legion Department of Alabama also expressed appreciation to Gov. Ivey for recognizing both Skelton's accomplishment and the educational mission of the Oratorical Contest as the nation prepares to commemorate America's 250th anniversary.
The Department is encouraging Alabama high school students, teachers and local American Legion Posts to participate in the 2027 Oratorical Contest.
