Elms Speech & Debate Shines at OSDA State Finals

The OSDA State Finals, hosted by Austintown Fitch High School on Friday, February 28, and Saturday, March 1, proved to be an exhilarating weekend of intense competition for Our Lady of the Elms School students.

Our five state qualifiers—Hannah Partsch, Sarah Simonton, Ananya Sharma, Hazel Parramore, and Gianna Hoye—showcased their remarkable talent and dedication on the state’s biggest stage.

Ananya, Hazel, and Gianna made impressive strides by advancing to the quarterfinals. From there, Hazel and Gianna continued their journey to the semifinals and, ultimately, the finals.

Hazel Parramore finished 6th in the state in Informative Speaking, while Gianna Hoye secured 3rd place in Declamation. Additionally, Hannah Partsch was awarded a prestigious Christian Science Monitor Scholarship for critical thinking in Original Oratory.

These five outstanding young women represented Our Lady of the Elms with professionalism, poise, and incredible skill. Congratulations to Hannah, Sarah, Ananya, Hazel, and Gianna on their achievements—your hard work and dedication continue to make us proud.