The Union County 4-H Public Speaking Contest showcased the talent and hard work of our youth, highlighting their dedication to honing skills that will help shape them into future leaders. Held at Horace Maynard Middle School, this year’s competition was a resounding success, and we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who made it possible.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our judges, who generously gave their time and expertise to evaluate the speeches. Your support is invaluable, and we are deeply appreciative of your role in encouraging these young participants.

We are also incredibly grateful to Horace Maynard Middle School for providing a welcoming and supportive venue for the event. The school’s continued partnership plays a crucial role in the success of our 4-H programs.

To the teachers, parents, and mentors who guided each 4-H member in preparing their speeches—thank you for your dedication. Your efforts inspire confidence, growth, and learning in our youth, making a lasting difference in their lives.

The results of the contest are as follows:

11th Grade
•1st Place: Gracie Tindell, Smoky Mountain Homeschool Club

8th Grade
•3rd Place: Zander Stedam, Horace Maynard Middle School
•2nd Place: Jude Firkin, Smoky Mountain Homeschool Club
•1st Place: Levi Fritts, Smoky Mountain Homeschool Club

7th Grade
•1st Place: Virginia Firkin, Smoky Mountain Homeschool Club

6th Grade
•4th Place: Bree Williams, Horace Maynard Middle School
•3rd Place: Miranda Boucher, Horace Maynard Middle School
•2nd Place: Rhys Lamb, Horace Maynard Middle School
•1st Place: Jepson Haynes, Horace Maynard Middle School

5th Grade
•5th Place: Jaydon Battles, Sharps Chapel Elementary School
•4th Place: Lily Rouse, Sharps Chapel Elementary School
•3rd Place: Luke Goforth, Big Ridge Elementary School
•2nd Place: Savannah Lee, Paulette Elementary School
•1st Place: Zyon Copeland, Big Ridge Elementary School

4th Grade
•5th Place: Carolyne Winstead, Maynardville Elementary School
•4th Place: Zoey Price, Paulette Elementary School
•3rd Place: Audry Niday, Maynardville Elementary School
•2nd Place: Payson Assad, Sharps Chapel Elementary School
•1st Place: Faith Tindell, Smoky Mountain Homeschool Club

The 1st place winners in Grades 4-8 will advance to the Big 9 Sub-Regional 4-H Public Speaking Contest, held this year on May 12 at Pump Springs Baptist Church in Harrogate. First place winners need to RSVP to: sarahsc@utk.edu or (865) 992-8038. If you cannot attend, we will allow the next place student to participate.

Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and dedication. Your efforts inspire us all and demonstrate the bright future of Union County. Let’s continue to support and encourage these outstanding youth as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow.