Royal Oak Middle School Student Advances to Optimist International Regional Oratorical Contest
Royal Oak Middle School student Abagail Woodruff continues her outstanding journey in public speaking, having won the Michigan District Oratorical Contest this week. With this impressive achievement, Abagail now advances to compete in the prestigious Optimist International Regional Contest, taking place in July at St. Louis University.
Abagail has already earned significant recognition for her speaking skills, beginning with a win at the local Club contest, followed by the Area contest, and most recently the Michigan District competition—where she was awarded a $2,500 scholarship. She will now represent the Michigan District against five other regional champions on July 17.
The stakes are high, as the winner of the Regional Contest will move on to the Optimist International World Finals on July 18, also held at St. Louis University. The finalists will compete for additional scholarships: $15,000 for first place, $10,000 for second, and $5,000 for third. All scholarships are generously funded by the Optimist International Foundation and the Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation.
Abagail’s success reflects not only her individual talent and dedication but also the support and encouragement of the Royal Oak Schools community, where student growth and excellence are championed every day.
We wish Abagail the best of luck as she prepares for Regionals. Her powerful voice and inspiring message have already made us incredibly proud.