Alumnus named top speaker

Ty Warren, a UA alumnus, was originally forced into public speaking by his professor, Mary Bauer, but now he is extremely grateful for the experience.

Thanks to Bauer and many other elements in his education and career, he was named Speaker of the Year for 2007 by Delta Sigma Rho National Honorary Forensics Society.

Delta Sigma Rho is an organization that promotes public speaking and forensics.

Jo Ann Edwards, director of forensics for the society, said Warren was selected as Speaker of the Year because of his dedication to the public.

"We recognize someone who has contributed to forensics, been active in communications and is also someone who people trust," Edwards said.

Edwards said it is a prestigious honor to be chosen for Delta Sigma Rho.

"To be elected into Delta Sigma Rho, you have to excel in public speaking, and be in the top 30 percent of your class," Edwards said.

When Warren became Speaker of The Year for this prestigious society, he said he was frightened because the recognition came from people he greatly respects.

"It would be a bit awkward to be named Speaker of the Year and give a bad speech, so I felt a lot of pressure. Frankly, it seemed odd to receive an award when it is I who should be saying thank you," Warren said.

Warren said he is also thankful for Bauer.

Warren, along with three other of Bauer's debate students, endowed a scholarship named after her. The scholarship is now given by the speech department.

"I was scared to death of public speaking but [Bauer] refused to let me off the hook. I'm so grateful to her," Warren said.

Warren said he is not only thankful for her, but he said he remembers his time on the Alabama Debate team as beneficial to his success.

"Our coach was Annabel Hagood. She was considered the 'Bear' Bryant of debate. That's what took me to Alabama - the chance to work with the best," Warren said.

Warren also has fond memories about smart, focused people he knew on the debate team at the Capstone.

"Joe Perkins, John Saxon and Steve Windom were on that team and have had hugely successful careers and, not surprisingly, they have had an impact on state and national politics. Of course, even back then you knew these people were special," Warren said.

While many elements have helped Warren, he said debate has been the most beneficial element to his career.

"It teaches the process of success. It teaches research skills, analysis, reasoning and of course the ability to deliver your ideas. I was very poor in all these areas until debate entered my life," Warren said.

"Stephen Vincent Benet wrote, 'Every man has that one spot of land that he loves and clings to.' The University of Alabama is that place to me," Warren said.