UIL Academics advance to State

The Academic UIL Regional Meet was held on Friday, April 25 at Blinn College in Brenham.

For journalism events, junior Aiden Franzen placed 1st in Copy Editing and qualified for State under journalism coach Jessica Otte.

“I definitely did not expect to get first place at Regionals, but I was overjoyed when I got my results,” Franzen said. “I have been practicing Copy Editing for months now, so I’m glad my hard work has paid off.”

 Junior Gaby Chavez placed 4th in News Writing and 6th in Feature Writing, earning State alternate in both events. Senior Cecelia Gibson placed 6th in Copy Editing and is a State alternate.

For debate, sophomore Ace Henley placed 2nd in LD Debate and qualified for State under debate coach Corey Smith.

“I didn’t expect even to break to finals, but after roll check, I made up my mind that I’d try to live up to expectations,” Henley said. “It’s easy to say that everyone believed in me more than I did in myself, so I’m thankful to everyone who continues to support me.”

For speaking events, Franzen placed 6th in Poetry and is a State alternate. In addition, junior Lennon Trove placed 6th in Prose while junior Christian Carter placed 5th in Informative Speaking both earning State alternate.

Competitors will travel to Austin to attend the State UIL Academic Meet which begins on Monday, May 18 at the University of Texas.