College of Western Idaho (CWI) hosted the first-annual Department of Communication Celebration, May 9, which served as a spotlight for its nationally recognized Speech and Debate program. As part of the event the program introduced Teresa Fridrich and Cheryl Wright as recipients of two new annual recognitions intended to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to CWI Speech and Debate.
Fridrich’s introduction came as the first-ever inductee into the CWI Speech and Debate Alumni Hall of Fame. Fridrich was a captain on the Speech and Debate team in 2010-11. Along with earning several individual awards, Fridrich also helped capture CWI’s first of three Speech and Debate National Championships. She graduated from CWI in 2011 with an associate degree in Communication. She currently works for the College as an administrative assistant II in the President’s Office.
Wright, CWI’s Vice President of Finance and Administration, received her honor as the inaugural CWI Speech and Debate Support Award recipient. The award recognizes a person who plays a vital role in supporting CWI Speech and Debate, while demonstrating commitment to the value of forensics and this activity in building students as future community leaders.
Both awards are determined by current and former CWI Directors and Assistant Directors of forensics.