Local Student Makes History in State Oratorical Competition
Deandre Godana, a 16-year-old junior at Millennium High School, is earning recognition for both his determination and achievement in the American Legion High School Oratorical Competition.
Known for his passion for helping others and his growing interest in business, Godana was initially unfamiliar with the competition. “What is that?” he recalled asking when first introduced to the opportunity. After learning about the requirements, he quickly developed a plan to balance his academic responsibilities while preparing a speech centered on the U.S. Constitution.
Motivated by a desire to support his family, Godana shared that his goal was to help his mother, a single parent raising four children, also to get him a car, and put him through college. To pursue this opportunity, he temporarily set aside his passion for basketball and committed himself fully to the competition.
Over the course of five intensive weeks, Godana dedicated himself to researching, writing, and practicing his speech. His hard work paid off as he advanced through the District level and competed at the Area B competition, where he earned a third-place finish along with a cash award.
In addition to his placement, Godana made history as the first African American student in Arizona to compete at this level of the American Legion Oratorical Competition.
With his discipline, purpose, and drive, Godana is already demonstrating the qualities of a future leader.
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