Public speaking continues to play a significant role at Middlebury College through the Oratory Now program, which focuses on training and research in oral expression. The Spencer Prize, held annually during J-term, is one of the key events for student speakers.
In December, faculty and staff nominated 111 students for this year’s competition. Of those nominated, 46 chose to participate. These students attended a speechwriting workshop at the beginning of winter term to help them prepare for the qualifying rounds. After several stages of competition, six finalists advanced to deliver their speeches during an evening event in Wilson Hall. The program also included a performance by the Middlebury Mamajamas, an a cappella group.
The 2026 Spencer Prize was organized by Zane Malarkey ‘28, Yasmina Errahioui ‘28, and a team of 37 students from Oratory Now.
Lillian Tracy ’29 was named the winner of this year’s Spencer Prize.
