Emma Ko, a home-schooled senior was presented a Certificate of Recognition by City of Frisco Mayor Jeff Chaney at the March 15 City Council meeting for her recent outstanding oratory performances. She was selected the winner in the 4th District and 1st Division contests, and first runner-up in the American Legion Department of Texas state contest. Miss Ko is the second orator since Post 178 was chartered in 2014 to compete in the state competition.

For her performances in the three contests, she received college scholarships totaling $5,000. If for any reason the winner is unable to compete in the national contest in Indianapolis, she may be substituted for the winner.

Miss Ko plans to attend Southern Methodist University or Texas A&M University to major in economics and political science/ international studies. She would like to study abroad, compete in speech and debate at a collegiate level, and eventually work in economic policy or international business. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, reading, cooking and studying Chinese.

Since 1938, the American Legion Oratorical program has existed to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. The program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship.