The National Speech & Debate Association recently inducted Mrs. Gail Nicholas, a BJA faculty member and speech & debate coach, into its hall of fame. Mrs. Nic, as she is popularly known at school, is the first South Carolina coach to receive this award.
This year’s Hall of Fame recognitions were given during NSDA’s virtual national competition.
The NSDA Hall of Fame is its highest honor for speech and debate coaches. Of the thousands of coaches in the United States and around the world, only 193 have achieved the award since its inception in 1978. Hall of Fame members along with coaches who have earned three or more diamond awards vote to elect the new members from a slate of those nominated by member coaches.
Mrs. Nic has 35 years of NSDA coaching experience and is beginning her 20th year as district chair for South Carolina’s NSDA program.
Few individuals have received more NSDA awards than Mrs. Nic. These include five diamond awards, awards reflecting excellence and longevity; bronze, silver, and gold district leader commendations; and 12 Distinguished Service Awards.
Under the leadership of Mrs. Nic and her husband, Chuck, BJA has qualified for 27 national tournaments. They have coached two national champions as well as several national finalists.
Congratulations on your well-earned award, Mrs. Nic!
Comments are closed.