A persuasive speaking contest was endowed by friends and family of Father Leonard. The annual competition, sponsored by the Communication Department, is open to all Boston College undergraduates. Contestants' speeches must deal with a controversial topic and are judged on the basis of evidence, reasoning, organization, analysis and delivery.

Winners of the Leonard Public Speaking Contest include:

2013

First: Joanne Connelly '15
Second: Jamie Liptack '15
Third: Sullivan McCormick '15

2012

First: Madeleine Redlick '12
Second: Rachel Ryan '12
Third: Ryan Folio '12

2011

First: Brendan Benedict '12
Second: Ryan Folio '12
Third: Madeleine Redlick '12

2010

First: Valerie Bell '12
Second: Patrick Kessock '13
Third: Matthew Maerowitz '10