Cadden-Williams Prize Reading Competition

The Cadden-Williams Prize Reading Competition is a tradition that is almost as old as Norwich Free Academy. It is a combination of several awards: Newton Perkins Speaking Prize, Williams Prize for Reading, and Cadden Reading Prize.

In the early years, these competitions were held at Norwich City Hall to sold-out crowds. The rules originally stated that formal dress was required, as was a formal bow or curtsy to signal the start of a contestant's reading. The formal bows and curtsies remained until they were eliminated as part of the competition in the late 1990s. This year's competition saw thirty students compete in Slater Auditorium on Monday, March 10.

The first place winner is awarded the Cadden Reading Prize and will be the Ivy Orator for their class at graduation. The Cadden Prize was established in 1922 by the owners of the Plaut-Cadden Company of Norwich. The tradition of the Ivy Orator speaker goes back to the early days of the Academy, when ivy was planted in honor of each graduating class and adorned campus buildings.

Placing first this year is senior Shaunty Mae Vidad (TED Talk “The Power of Self Belief” given by Layne Beachley).

The second place winner is awarded the Williams Prize for Reading. This year, placing second is senior Sadia Qsaib (Toni Morrison's, Commencement Address to the Wellesley College Class of 2004). The prize was established in 1869 with a fund by Harriet Peck Williams, who was the donor of the Peck Library and of the same family that donated the land the Academy was built on.

Third place receives the Newton Perkins Medal. The first Newton Perkins Speaking Contest was held on July 17, 1858. According to a quote from the Norwich Bulletin on May 4, 1971, this is the oldest continuous competitive activity in the history of Norwich Free Academy. Placing third is senior Erin O'Farrell (First You Have to Row a Little Boat by Richard Bode).

Congratulations to these three students on their impressive performances and proud accomplishments!