MVHS Debater Awarded Academic All American

By GABRIELLE SHIOZAWA

Moapa Valley Progress

There are more than 141,000 members involved in the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) across America. Yet fewer than 500 students earn the Academic All American award each year, placing these individuals among the top one-percent of American debaters.

Despite these rigorous odds, Morgan Aikele, a member of the Moapa Valley High School Speech & Debate Team, was able to earn the prestigious honor this year.

In order to qualify for the Academic All American award, Aikele had to meet several criteria. After completing at least five semesters of high school, she had to earn the degree of Superior Distinction in the NSDA Honor Society through a total of 750 or more merit points; Morgan has earned 1,117.
She also had to maintain a 3.30 GPA or higher and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities.
“As you know, speech and debate provides life skills vital to a young person’s success,” commented NSDA Executive Director J. Scott Wunn. “Speech and debate advances communication skills; improves reading, writing and critical thinking skills; develops interpersonal skills; and prepares students for college, a career, and beyond.”

Reflecting on a year of competitive Speech & Debate tournaments, both in and out of the Las Vegas District, Aikele commented, “I’ve really pushed myself out of [my] comfort zone… I became a much stronger debater and got to represent our state nationally.”
Besides debating, Aikele is involved in Student Council and Tennis at MVHS, all while maintaining a high GPA.
“It wasn’t easy to juggle [Debate] with school, but both are important to me,” Aikele said. “I’m so excited to continue this next year, and I’m honored to have received the Academic All American.”