Each year, the top two persuasive speakers at the state tournament are qualified to
attend the National Interstate Oratory Competition. It's the oldest oratory competition in the United States. Every year, members from each state compete for the honor to attend this prestigious tournament. Gustavus has had great success in the past several years. Throughout its entire forensics legacy, Gustavus has been an integral part of the Interstate Oratorical Association. Andrea Carlile ('07) qualified for the Interstate Oratory for three consecutive years, 2005-2007 and made it to semifinals in 2006. In 2007, Andrea Carlile ('07) and Bridget Traut ('07) made history by having both competitors to represent Minnesota hailing from one school. This feat was repeated in 2008 with Mary Cunningham ('10) and Emma Moreau ('10) representing Minnesota. Cunningham ('10) was able to advance the semifinals, and Moreau ('10) became the first Gustie to advance to finals since 1974, earning 4th place. Gustavus was the only school in 2008 to have two students advance to semifinals.
