First Speech State Title Since 1987
Chicago, IL—(ENEWSPF)— Marist High School proudly announces that senior Mia Narciso ’26 has been crowned IHSA State Champion in Original Oratory and earned Runner-Up honors in Prose Interpretation at the Illinois High School Association State Finals.
Narciso’s state championship performance in Original Oratory addressed the rising levels of anxiety among Generation Z and explored meaningful, forward-thinking solutions to better support young people in the future. Her speech combined research, creativity, and compelling delivery to capture the attention of judges and audiences alike.
In addition to her state title, Narciso placed second in the state in Prose Interpretation. Her prose piece examined the experiences of victims of war crimes committed by the Japanese Army during World War II, bringing historical realities to life through powerful storytelling and emotional depth. She previously earned the title of Sectional Champion in Prose on her path to the state finals.
Mia Narciso Is First Female State Champion in Marist History
With this achievement, Narciso becomes the first female student in Marist High School history to win an IHSA State Championship in Speech. She is also the school’s first Speech State Champion since 1987.
A three-year member and Co-Captain of the Marist Speech Team, Narciso has helped foster a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and competitive excellence within the program.
Her impact at Marist and beyond extends far beyond the stage. She is the Co-Founder and President of the nonprofit Turn the Page Foundation, where she has raised funds to provide literacy software for disadvantaged students at a partner alternative school. Her leadership earned recognition in the Chicago Tribune and the distinction of Nonprofit Leader of the Year.
She is also the Founder and President of the Leo Lions Club of Palos, a youth extension of Lions International, the largest service organization in the world. Through this initiative, she has organized community-wide service efforts including sports equipment drives, technology tutoring for seniors, environmental cleanups, and participation in United Nations Day. The club launched with charter members from seven different schools and has been featured in Lions International Magazine and several other publications.
Co-Founder and Co-President of the Amnesty International chapter
At Marist, Narciso is Co-Founder and Co-President of the Amnesty International chapter, promoting global perspectives and human rights awareness through educational programming and advocacy initiatives. She also serves as Charter Member and President of the Business Club, Senior Representative of the Investment Club where student recommendations have helped maintain a portfolio performing consistently above market benchmarks, Team Captain of Debate Club, and a member of the National Honor Society. In addition, she has privately tutored students for five years in mathematics, chemistry, and reading at no cost and operates her own calligraphy and art business serving community events and celebrations.
“Mia’s historic accomplishment reflects not only her extraordinary talent, but also her initiative, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep commitment to service,” said school leadership. “She embodies the leadership and global perspective that define a Marist education.”
Marist High School congratulates Mia Narciso ’26 on bringing Honor, Glory, and Fame to the Marist community.
This is news from Marist High School.
