Florida Debate Initiative Announces Winners of the 2025 Statewide Veterans Day Speech Contest
- Caroline Hamon
- Nov 11
- 2 min read
Oviedo, FL: Florida Debate Initiative (FDI) proudly announces the winners of its 2025 Veterans Day Speech Contest.
2025 Prompt: LEARN FROM THOSE WHO SERVED - What can we learn from veterans about courage, teamwork, and responsibility? How can those lessons help students in everyday life?
Participation surged this year, with student submissions nearly doubling from our inaugural contest. Entries were evaluated by a panel of speech experts, educators, and community leaders. “Learning from those who served starts early,” said Abraham López, President of FDI. “By third grade, students can practice courage, teamwork, and responsibility, not as slogans, but as everyday choices in the classroom, on teams, and at home. Those habits become the foundation for leadership that strengthens our communities.”
Contest Winners
Grades 3–5
1st Place ($100): Natalie Selz, 5th Grade — Alexander D. Henderson University School
2nd Place ($75): Paige Hullinger, 4th Grade — Homeschooled (Keystone Heights Elementary)
3rd Place ($50): Nina Dunn, 3rd Grade — Homeschooled (St. Johns Co. Independent)
Grades 6–7
1st Place ($100): Leon Shtern, 6th Grade — iPrep Academy North
2nd Place ($75): Ryleigh Rhodes, 6th Grade — Walton Middle School
3rd Place ($50): Finn Tangney, 7th Grade — Somerset Parkland Academy
Grade 8
1st Place ($100): Alexi Lubrani, 8th Grade — Pembroke Pines Charter Middle School West
2nd Place ($75): Anshi Tekawade, 8th Grade — Lecanto Middle School
3rd Place ($50): Harper Harris, 8th Grade — Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences
FDI extends its gratitude to all student participants, families, teachers, and volunteer judges who made this year’s competition a success. Together, we celebrate the shared values of service, leadership, and community—and applaud these students for inspiring us through their words and example.