NEW ORLEANS – Markus Reneau, the International High School of New Orleans 2015 Salutatorian, is the winner of the Grand Lodge of ELK'S 87th National Oratorical Contest, held last weekend on Saturday, August 1, 2015, in Las Vegas.
Former recipients of the ELKS Oratorical Contest include Thurgood Marshall, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Oprah Winfrey.
Reneau will be attending Yale University this fall and majoring in African American Studies and Philosophy.
“We are so proud of Markus and his many accomplishments,” said Head of School Sean Wilson. “He is an example of how hard work, determination and courage can bring success. He is an exemplary young man and IHSNO is proud to call him an alumnus."
Reneau received a $10,000 scholarship, plaque and certificate as the 1st place winner of the contest presented by the ELKS Department of Education. The contest was held during the Grand Lodge and 112th Grand Temple Annual Convention at the Westgate Resort in Las Vegas.
Reneau was the first place winner of the local, state and regional (Tennessee) Oratory Contests and represented Region 5, which included Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas and Tennessee.
As a member of the International High School Debate team, Reneau represented IHSNO at the 2015 NCFL National Debate tournament in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
