Welcome to the 2024 American Forensic Association National Speech Tournament! The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is thrilled to host the tournament at our breath taking campus on the Chippewa River. The art of communication flows like the currents of a mighty river, gathering momentum and strength from the convergence of diverse talents and perspectives. As participants from various backgrounds navigate the twists and turns of performance and oratory, they embody the dynamic nature of confluence, where individual streams of thought merge to form a powerful force of discourse. Like streams joining to shape the course of a river, each participant brings their unique voice to the collective flow of conversation, contributing to the ever-changing landscape of understanding and discovery. Just as rivers carve their paths through the terrain, so too does the exchange of ideas at this tournament carve new pathways for intellectual exploration and growth. Join us as we embark on this journey along the currents of communication, where the waters of knowledge converge to nourish and sustain the pursuit of truth and understanding.