Speechwriting is where strategy, storytelling, and rhetoric meet. In this seminar, we’ll explore how political speeches are crafted—from initial drafts to final delivery. Students will learn how speechwriters balance policy, persuasion, and emotion, and how a single line can define a candidate, leader, or moment in history. 

We’ll discuss the collaborative process behind speeches: research, revisions, approvals, and the coordination between speechwriters, communications teams, and principals. Students will also get insight into what makes certain speeches resonate with audiences, become historically significant, or go viral in the media. 

Special Guest via zoom: Steven Kelley former Director of Speechwriting to Vice President Kamala Harris 

Wednesday, April 29 2026

5pm-6pm