It has been a standout spring for Delavan High School’s Elisha Waggoner, whose talents in both the performing arts and competitive speaking have earned him recognition across the state — and now a spot in the next round of the Optimist Oratorical Contest.

Waggoner, who recently held a starring role in the high‑energy Delavan High School production of Newsies, added another achievement to his growing list this month by placing 14th at the IHSA State Speech Competition in Prose Reading. His performance capped a strong season with the Mighty Panther Speech Team, where he has become known for his expressive delivery and thoughtful interpretation.

His success didn’t stop there. Waggoner also won the Delavan Optimist Club’s Oratorical Contest, earning a $250 award and the opportunity to advance to the zone‑level competition in Rockford on April 11. The winner of that event will move on to the District level, where a scholarship is on the line.

A panel of three judges, all members of the Delavan Optimist Club, evaluated contestants using a detailed scoring rubric that measured content, poise, delivery and overall effectiveness. In a rare outcome, each judge independently awarded Waggoner a perfect score, underscoring the strength of both his message and his presentation.

This year’s contest theme — “The Moment I Realized I Belonged — My Definition of Community” — invited students to reflect on connection, identity and the places where they find support. Waggoner delivered a stirring and heartfelt speech centered on his journey with the Mighty Panther Speech Team. He spoke about discovering a sense of belonging through the friendships, encouragement and shared purpose he found among his teammates.

Optimist Club members praised both the depth of his message and the sincerity of his delivery, noting how clearly he articulated the impact of community on his growth as a student and performer.

With a standout theater performance, a strong showing at State and now a chance to compete at the next level of the Optimist Oratorical program, Waggoner’s spring season reflects both talent and heart — qualities that continue to make him a leader among Delavan’s young performers and speakers.