From Staff Reports

MONTGOMERY – Addison Fuller, a senior at Pelham High School, placed third at the American Legion Department of Alabama Oratorical Contest held Saturday, March 10, at the Alabama Department of Archives and History.

She received a scholarship for $2,000. Fuller, who is the daughter of Bram and Melissa Fuller, previously won competitions at the post, district and division levels. She plans to attend Huntingdon College this fall.

The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1938, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation’s laws, the ability to think and speak clearly and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship.

Young orators earn college scholarships by participating in and winning competitions. More than $138,000 in scholarships can be awarded each year. The winner of the national contest receives an $18,000 scholarship. Second place takes home $16,000 and third gets $14,000.

Each state winner who is certified into and participates in the national contest’s first round receives a $1,500 scholarship. Those who advance past the first round receive an additional $1,500 scholarship. The American Legion’s National Organization awards the scholarships, which can be used at any college or university in the United States.