Does the thought of giving a speech to a room full of people set your nerves on high alert and your voice quivering? If so, you’re not alone. Some studies show that up to 75 percent of people have a fear of public speaking, which can be limiting both professionally and personally.
“In June 2014, a small group of interested UMGC alumni met in the cafeteria at the former Largo building on McCormick Drive to discuss forming a Toastmaster's club for the community,” explains JuDawn Lowe ‘98.
Within a few weeks, they chartered the UMGC Power Speakers Toastmasters Club to help students and alumni express themselves better, practice communicating with confidence, bolster their leadership skills and have fun with other like-minded members of the UMGC community.
Lowe was one of the founding members of the club. Since 2014, she has held several volunteer roles, including serving as president in 2023-23.
“This term, I'm a club member and current past club president,” she explains. “In my nine years I've also served as vice president of public relations, membership and education.”
Lowe is a big believe in the difference Toastmaster’s can make for an individual.
“In a supportive and positive learning environment, Toastmasters helps members develop better communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal and professional growth,” she insists.
It also makes participants “mindful of those filler words like ah, um and er,” she adds.
By participating in the UMGC Power Speakers Toastmasters Club, you can learn to speak in front of a group and lead with purpose, which can transform your life.
Join the club!
Are you interested in joining the UMGC Power Speakers Toastmasters Club to conquer public speaking while meeting other members of the UMGC alumni and student communities?
- Learn more about the UMGC Power Speakers Toastmasters Club.
- Membership fees are $60 for six months or $120 per year.
- Visit https://umgc.toastmastersclubs.org/ for more information!
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