On Sunday, highly experienced public speaking coach Fred Ashforth visited SUNY Morrisville and spoke to Boys State, giving tips and tricks for citizens running for leadership roles in their respective city, county, or state governments.

Growing up in Clinton, New York, Ashforth was a track and field athlete, although he admits he wasn’t very good. Eventually, he found his voice on stage, and participated in several plays during his time in high school. 

In the 1990s in Philadelphia, he went to a public speaking information seminar. He found the content interesting, and took the speaker’s advice to heart. He applied those methods he learned about and dedicated his career to helping the next generation in their own pursuits.  His “Success Triangle” provides a visual aid in preparing and executing speeches. 

First, he covered how one’s attitude to their speech changes your audience. He explained how young men should carry themselves during any instance of public speaking. He stressed the importance of enthusiasm and passion for one’s topic. 

Second, he described Technique. He went over different ways to vary one’s speaking to keep the audience involved. He said, “Don’t speak to groups, speak to individuals.” He explained how good speakers randomly make eye contact with members of the audience, which gives the impression that you’re speaking directly to them. He also talked about using natural gestures and personal stories to keep people engaged. 

The third pillar was Behavior. He went over how people automatically have a certain respect for others who stand straight and walk confidently. He also encouraged getting oneself outside their comfort zone. He said that stretching yourself leads to growth. That is parallel to the best advice he says he’s received: “Go for it”. He supports working hard for your dreams. “The sky’s the limit!” 

He expanded upon his advice by quoting John Wooden, famous UCLA basketball coach- “You can’t have a perfect day without doing something for someone who can never repay you,” he said. “I come here to Boys State knowing you guys won’t pay me back for this time, but I speak here in hopes you guys will do great things.” 

As Boys State citizens, and the future leaders of our country, we have an obligation to do just that. Many of the people we will impact won’t have any way to compensate us for our efforts in helping them. We all have a responsibility to do what is best for our constituents, regardless of what level of leadership you possess. When you do a simple act of kindness, a minimum of three people benefit. You, the person you help, and anyone else who is watching. You are an inspiration. This act of service and/or kindness has a ripple effect, and every act reaches farther than you think.