Preserving a Legacy: Fundraising Efforts for Blackfoot High School's Speech and Debate Program

Blackfoot High School’s speech and debate program will turn 100 years old next year

Empowering Generations: The Hansen/Capellan Legacy Fund and the Enduring Impact of Blackfoot High School’s Speech and Debate Program

Blackfoot High Speech and Debate Program

In 2024, a momentous milestone will be reached as Blackfoot High School’s speech and debate program celebrates its 100-year anniversary. This program stands as a shining example of excellence in Idaho, thanks to the impactful contributions of former debate instructors Mamie Capellan and Leora Hansen.

To honor the legacy of the speech and debate program and pay tribute to its dedicated instructors, alumni Angelen Parrish and her sister Jean Henscheid have taken the initiative to establish the Hansen/Capellan Legacy Fund through the Idaho Community Foundation. The primary objective of this fund is to provide crucial support to the current generation of debate students at Blackfoot High School. Their ambitious goal is to raise $25,000 by the close of 2024, earmarked for purchasing essential technology and meeting individual needs.

Jordan Reynolds, the current speech and debate instructor at Blackfoot High School, explains how the raised funds would be utilized. Reynolds envisions using the legacy funds to facilitate the acquisition of necessary materials for the students throughout the year. He emphasizes that the financial constraints faced by some students, particularly concerning professional attire and speech materials, should not act as barriers to their participation. The legacy funds aim to eliminate these obstacles and empower students to excel in their endeavors.

However, the unforeseen challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic have posed hurdles to their fundraising aspirations. With only five years to reach their financial target and a substantial portion of that period marred by the global crisis, the Hansen/Capellan Legacy Fund currently stands at just 70 percent of its intended goal.

Angelen Parrish acknowledges the urgency of their situation, noting, “We only have one year left. We’re hoping we can just kind of push this effort over the top within the next year.” Their objective extends beyond just marking the 100-year anniversary; they also aim to channel the fund’s benefits directly into the high school’s debate program, starting in its centennial year.

Reflecting on the rich history of Blackfoot High School’s speech and debate program, Parrish delves into its origins. She shares that in 1924, the program clinched victory in the inaugural Idaho State Speech and Debate Competition. Under the tutelage of Miss Capellan, who continued teaching until 1961, the program produced numerous state and national award-winning students. In 1967, Leora Hansen assumed the role of coach and continued to nurture the program’s success for three decades. Blackfoot High School’s impressive track record includes not only winning the first state competition but also amassing more state championship teams than any other school in Idaho.

Combined, Capellan and Hansen had a profound impact on around 25,000 students. Parrish fondly recalls her experience learning from Hansen, describing her as a woman of grace who was devoted to helping students achieve their full potential. The speech and debate program under their guidance fostered essential life skills such as research, public speaking, and analysis. These skills are universally valuable and applicable to various professions, with many of Hansen’s former students achieving success as chairmen, CEOs, attorneys, physicians, and educators. Parrish emphasizes that these accomplishments are attributed to the skills instilled by Hansen.

Jordan Reynolds himself is an embodiment of the program’s success. A former student of Blackfoot High School, he excelled in debate, achieving remarkable results in tournaments and even qualifying for nationals. His success extended to college, where he continued to thrive while also contributing as an assistant coach at the high school. Eventually, Reynolds assumed the role of the speech and debate coach.

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Reynolds shares his aspirations as the current debate instructor at Blackfoot High School. He acknowledges that debate provided him with a safe space where he could truly be himself, and he is determined to offer the same environment to his students. Beyond focusing solely on winning, Reynolds now prioritizes the students’ enjoyment and aims to equip them with the resources they need to perform at their best. His ultimate goal is for every student to recognize the value of their efforts, whether through trophies or affirmations.

As the centennial anniversary of Blackfoot High School’s speech and debate program approaches, the Hansen/Capellan Legacy Fund stands as a testament to the enduring impact of dedicated educators and the unwavering commitment of alumni. This initiative not only preserves a legacy but also propels future generations toward excellence, empowering them to conquer barriers and thrive in their chosen endeavors.

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