Students compete against top schools in the nation; gain valuable communication and
presentation skills for future success
The Oakland Community College student Forensics Team recently had two finalists at the Michigan Intercollegiate Speech League (MISL) State Championships, held at Wayne State University. The event marked the team’s
fourth and final tournament of the 2025–2026 academic year.
Competing against teams from several four-year universities—including three ranked
among the top 10 in the nation—OCC students delivered strong performances. Melissa
Jose reached the finals in the Informative category, and Jose and teammate Saamia
Waheed advanced to the finals in the Duo category.
According to OCC Communications/Forensics faculty member and Forensics Team advisor
Carole Bennett, reaching the final round was a major accomplishment.
“With the four-year universities sending their best students to the state championship,
the level of competition was very high,” Bennett said. “Melissa and Saamia making
it to the final round was outstanding.”
Strong results throughout the season
The MISL State Championship capped a successful season, which included three additional
MISL tournaments for the team, this year. Other competitions and results included,
but are not limited to:
- September 2025 – Online Synchronous Mini Tournament (hosted by OCC): Saamia Waheed and Donna Lopatin tied for first place in the Informative category.
- December 2025 – Fall Tournament at Saginaw Valley State University: Melissa Jose placed first in Informative and second in Impromptu Sales; Emma Paletta placed third in Impromptu. Jose also finished second overall in the state.
- February 2026 – Novice Tournament at Northwood University: Jose placed first in Informative; Jose and Saamia Waheed placed second in Duo Interpretation.
Students Build Valuable Skills for the Future
Bennett explained that collegiate forensics is a competitive activity focused on speech,
performance and debate. To prepare for tournaments, students research their topics,
write speeches using credible sources, and rehearse their presentations to communicate
their ideas clearly and persuasively.
While competition is a major focus of the team, not every member competes.
During the 2025–2026 academic year, 23 students participated in OCC’s Forensics Team
in various ways. Seven students prepared 12 presentations for competition, and typically
four or five students competed at each tournament. Other students worked on developing
their speaking skills and speeches; some also attended meetings or tournaments to
observe and learn.
Students who attended tournaments to observe and learn included Anahi Arizmendi, Chelsea
Avetta, Alexandra Bussiere, Carmen Chambliss, Dangalese Johnson, Livia Martins, Jacob
Morin and Sophia Tapp.
“Regardless of how they placed, every student gained valuable skills that will benefit
their education, careers and community involvement,” Bennett said. “Learning to deliver
effective presentations is an important skill for success.”
For more information, visit the OCC Forensics Team webpage.
About OCC
Oakland Community College (OCC) has empowered individuals through education since
1965. Serving more than 20,000 students annually, OCC offers 80+ degree and certificate
programs, workforce training and community education programs with flexible class
options, low tuition, robust services, and top transfer opportunities. Ranked Michigan’s
top online college and seventh nationally by Newsweek’s America’s Top Online Colleges
2025, OCC delivers education that drives opportunity, workforce growth and community
impact. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
###
Media Contact: Marketing & Communications | (248) 341-2020 |
contactus@oaklandcc.edu