Houghton HS Students Compete in Soapbox Challenge

UPDATE NOVEMBER 22, 2022 –

Houghton High School junior Ian Evans took the title, after talking about his experiences as the target of homophobic slurs.

Evans won a trip to Washington, D.C., where he will have the opportunity to discuss the issue with lawmakers.

ORIGINAL STORY NOVEMBER 21, 2022 –

Students from Houghton High School will be among those expressing their opinions and honing their speaking skills today in Marquette.

The fifth annual Tom Baldini Soapbox Challenge will begin at 11:30 at Kaufman Auditorium. Students from Negaunee and Marquette schools will also be involved.

Today’s 10 finalists were selected from 500 students who gave initial presentations. The speeches must be original, and last from two to three minutes.

The Tom Baldini Soapbox Challenge honors the legacy of Tom Baldini, a former educator at Marquette Area Public Schools and a longtime area politician and public servant. The Soapbox Challenge aims to engage and empower the next generation of community leaders.

The public is welcome to attend today’s session.