Emma Ko, a home-schooled senior, was selected as the first runner-up from four orators in the American Legion Department of Texas Oratorical Contest in San Antonio on Monday, Feb. 21, 2022. She is the second orator since Post 178 was chartered in 2014 to compete for the state title.

Previously, she was selected a winner in the Post 178 contest in Frisco, the 4th District contest in Royce City, and the 1st Division contest in Denton. For winning those three contests, she received scholarships totaling $3,500. Including her $1,500 scholarship for being selected as first runner-up, Ko has earned scholarships totaling $5,000.

If for any reason the winner is unable to compete in the national contest, Ko as the department first runner-up may be substituted for the winner in Indianapolis in March.