New endowment gives forensics club reason to shout

2011 OSU Forensics Team Of the many valuable lessons Loni Hartman has gained at OSU, one of the most important came outside the classroom, she says, in her experiences on the OSU Forensics Team.

Once a shy student who struggled to speak up in class, the senior English major from Albany, Ore., now has a shelf packed with forensics trophies — and the confidence to actively engage in discussions.

"Knowing how to speak in public, communicate clearly, and transmit ideas — I can't think of a more vital skill," she says. "And being able to learn how to do that in a fun, supportive atmosphere has been such a gift."

One of the university's oldest clubs, the Forensics Team received a $100,000 gift this winter from former OSU administrator Milosh Popovich '39. It creates an endowment that will provide scholarships and help students travel to forensics competitions. The gift honors the memory of Popovich's late wife, Jeanne '41, who was a standout performer in speech and debate in her student days.

Attending a forensics event inspired Popovich to support the program, he says. "When I watched these students interact, all these old memories were brought back," notes the former vice president of administration. "I wanted to learn more about what they were doing, and where the program needed help."

Mark Porrovecchio, OSU Forensics director and assistant professor of speech communications, is leading the club in its 118th season.

“Milosh's gift was incredibly generous, extremely important, and humbling," Porrovecchio says. "He recognizes the value of forensics in the overall development of our students. His gift helps to assure the long-term financial health of the team."

Members of the 2011 OSU Forensics Team, pictured from left to right, are: (back row) Loni Hartman, Michael Walters, Kyle Bidwell, Kori Thornburgh, Jana Hodgins, Daniel Meiwes; (front row) Anna Crandall, Dalicia Fennell, Blane Higa.

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