‘OUTSTANDING’ INSTRUCTOR HONORED

Forensics – the formal style of debate – is an art form. To some individuals, it is a joyous experience, to others, a terrifying challenge. Either way, one important aspect is the chance to have a stupendous and inspiring coach and/or instructor.

Shannon Valdivia is one such instructor, whose teachings I have had the privilege of receiving.

In April, she was honored by the Phi Rho Pi National Forensics Honorary Organization with the Collie-Taylor Coach Fellowship Award. This is an award given to a coach deemed to be outstanding in the Phi Rho Pi’s National Community College Speech and Debate Tournament, held in Reno (at which Mt. Hood student Austin Schubert won three bronze medals.)

It was another significant accolade for Valdivia, who has led Mt. Hood’s forensic program to all sorts of competitive success.

“It is an honor to be recognized by your peers and your students. It is also humbling – after all, I’m just doing my job,” she said. “I wouldn’t be where I [am] without the many students that I’ve had to work with.”

The award is a wonderful example of how passionate and dedicated Valdivia is, and has been. Just as everyone else starts on their own journey, her forensics history began at a specific place.

“I had competed for a couple of years (as a student) and was encouraged by my mentor, Michael Dugaw, the former forensics teacher and coach at Lower Columbia Community College in Longview, Washington, to consider coaching.

“I initially thought he was crazy. After graduate school, I gave it a shot and fell in love with it,” she said. “It is very rewarding to help students discover the power of the spoken word and find their voice, while also developing a diverse set of speaking skills that can be used in a variety of settings.”

Valdivia has now served as an instructor and coach for a total 25 years: at LCCC, Clackamas Community College and at Mt. Hood for the past 22 years.

Asked what motivates her to keep on, she said, “Forensics is not for the weak of heart. It is very physically and mentally demanding. What has kept me going for 25 years has been the students. When I see them grow and develop into amazing speakers – it keeps me coming back.”

Far beyond competition, Valdivia is passionate about public speaking as a valuable tool in many areas of life. 

“There has never been a time when developing strong speaking skills has been [more] imperative. Whether preparing to enter the workplace or to become an active participant in our democracy – it is time for folks to speak out and speak up!” she said.

As stated earlier, I had the privilege of sitting under her teaching. I still remember one class session that clearly demonstrated not only her abilities, but also that passion. She delivered a speech she wrote to demonstrate what she was expecting of class members for their first speech of the term. As she spoke, she had me mesmerized; I felt like I had been a witness to the events she unraveled for the class. Needless to say, I was struck… speechless.

Valdivia is truly a gem in the world of public speaking. 

As for advice she has for potential students or competitors, she offered this: “Never underestimate your abilities. You have something important to share with the world. Speak even if your voice shakes. Speak truth to power, but make sure you can back it up!”