Mia Narciso ’26 Wins IHSA State Championship in Original Oratory, Makes School History

First Female State Champion in Marist History; First Speech State Title Since 1987

Marist High School proudly celebrates senior Mia Narciso ’26, who 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.

Her historic victory makes Narciso the first female IHSA Speech State Champion in Marist history and the school’s first Speech State Champion since 1987.

State Champion in Original Oratory

Narciso’s championship-winning 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 stand out among the state’s top competitors.

Runner-Up in Prose Interpretation

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. Through powerful storytelling and emotional depth, she brought complex historical realities to life. She previously earned the title of Sectional Champion in Prose on her path to the state finals.

Leadership at Marist High School

A three-year member and Co-Captain of the Marist Speech Team, Narciso has helped cultivate a culture of collaboration and excellence within the program.

Her impact extends far beyond competitive speech.

Narciso is the Co-Founder and President of the nonprofit Turn the Page Foundation, raising more than $7,000 to provide literacy software for disadvantaged students at a partner alternative school. Her work has been featured in the Chicago Tribune, and she was named Nonprofit Leader of the Year.

She also founded and serves as President of the Leo Lions Club of Palos, organizing community service initiatives including sports equipment drives, technology tutoring for seniors, environmental cleanups, and participation in United Nations Day.

At Marist, she is Co-Founder and Co-President of the Amnesty International chapter, Charter Member and President of the Business Club, Senior Representative of the Investment Club, Team Captain of Debate Club, and a member of the National Honor Society. She has privately tutored students for five years at no charge and operates her own calligraphy and art business serving community events.

A Historic Moment for Marist Speech

Mia Narciso’s IHSA State Championship represents a defining moment for the Marist High School Speech Team. Her achievement reflects the strength of the program and the leadership development central to a Marist education.

Marist High School congratulates Mia Narciso ’26 on bringing Honor, Glory, and Fame to the Marist community.