Here are some descriptions of the various special occasion speaking assignments:

Emcees: The master and mistress of ceremony host the event. They welcome guests, plan and oversee the preparation, and introduce each speaker. The emcees bid the audience to show their appreciation for each talk. They also consult with classmates and decide upon the theme, order of presentations, and ensure that guests have a grand time.

Convocation: This opening talk will set the stage for the event/ conference. It is usual to have a poignant verse, story or pithy statement. Confer with the emcees to ensure that this presentation is consistent with the theme. In our SPD 100 course, this can take just 30-60 seconds.

Entertainer: This light-hearted minute talk is designed to poke fun at ourselves. It's useful to share amusing recollections of assignments and experiences. At the Academy Awards, emcees Steve Martin, Whoopie Goldberg and Billy Crystal served as the entertainers as well. In our SPD 100 course, this will take just 2-3 minutes.

Historian: For our SPD 100 course, this after-dinner 2-3 minute talk provides an overview of the course. Highlight turning points, leaders, and major conflicts. The historian often interviews participants to get their reflections of these memories. Note the talks that historian David McCullough often gives.

Keynote Address: In the SPD 100 course, this 3-5 minute talk serves as the main attraction. Provide a "commencement" address filled with sage advice for using the principles of public speaking in the future. Click below for some good examples:

• Alan Alda's 1980 Commencement Talk to Connecticut College
• Frank McCourt's 1999 Commencement Talk to Connecticut College
• Tom Brokaw's 1996 Commencement Talk to Connecticut College
• David McCullough, 2001 Commencement Talk at University of Delaware
• Sandra Beckley, 1997 Keynote Speech for SPD 100 Course
• Chris Bertaut, 2001 Keynote Speech for SPD 100 Course
• Helen Roper, 2002 Keynote Speech for SPD 100 Course
• Carlyle Worrell, 2003 Keynote Speech for SPD 100 Course
• Steve Godin's 2005 Keynote Speech for SPD 100 Course

Toast: Toasts are intended to thank a host, to celebrate an occasion, or to observe an anniversary of something special. Toasts should be upbeat, short, and well-rehearsed. Several alcohol distributors offer tips on toastmaking.

For the SPD 100 course, this 20-30 second talk is a salute to those who have been instrumental in making the course what it is. Provide sparkling libations.

Adjournment: This 30-60 second talk is typically like the convocation. It would be valuable to coordinate these two speeches. This is the final fare-thee-well talk.

Awards Presentations: Notice that these are generally short talks (aim for 30-60 seconds) and have some substance to them. The Academy Awards is one example of the awards presentation and acceptance. Notice that recipients have just 45-seconds to speak - and the audience is often done listening before that.

Try to be specific and descriptive in your explanations of the commendations that you offer the recipient. Have a tangible item to accompany that award (e.g., a certificate, a trophy, a book or a candy bar).

When you present the award, don't reveal the recipient's name until you've nearly completed the description. This builds a climax. In addition, do not reveal to the recipient that you are going to give that person an award. This is to be a surprise!

Recipients generally strive to receive the award gracefully and modestly. Do not argue against the commendations and share the praise with those who have assisted you (e.g., your partner, instructor, best friend, and/or dog).

Other Roles for the SPD 100 Awards Banquet

Décor and Catering: Coordinate food and serving ware. ELI has a microwave and a full kitchen available.

Awards Coordinator: Ensure that each student receives an award. Bring back-up awards in case someone fails to attend. Your task to be sure that each classmates receives one award. You do not need to determine the award or to present it; you simply coordinate the effort.