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Winning storytellers from the ��ݮ��Ƶ’ 2025 Regents’ Cup took center stage at the Phoenix Art Museum this weekend, bringing the power of free speech to life in an iconic setting that celebrates creative expression. The inaugural Regents’ Cup Storytellers Showcase, presented by the board in collaboration with the museum during its popular First Friday series, spotlighted student voices from Arizona’s public universities Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona to articulate thought-provoking narratives that challenge, inspire and provoke meaningful discussion.

Taking place during the museum’s First Friday festivities, the event highlighted a selection of storytellers from the Regents’ Cup, ABOR’s annual speech and debate competition that celebrates civil discourse, respectful debate and persuasive storytelling. This year’s competition, which took place last month at NAU, focused on the theme, “The Government and the People: The Social Contract”. The topic allowed each speaker to explore the complexities of civic responsibility, governance and the power of individual voices in shaping the future.

Regents’ Cup was created to highlight the importance of freedom of speech and respectful dialogue across varied experiences and opinions. 

“The students’ stories were a powerful reminder that storytelling is not only an art, it also creates connection and understanding of different experiences. The feeling of unity, across many untold stories represented in the audience, was palpable during the event,” Brewster said. “I extend my sincere appreciation to the Phoenix Art Museum for this collaboration to celebrate the power of stories, the value of higher education, and the fundamental freedoms of speech and expression that shape our democracy.”

Museum attendees were treated to six exceptional stories from students , ASU;, U of A; , ASU; , NAU; , ASU; and , U of A. With commanding presence, each of the storytellers embarked on heartfelt accounts of resilience that explored personal experiences, historical reflections and forward-thinking ideas. Each story, distinct yet interconnected, reinforced the importance of free speech, expression and engagement in shaping a more informed and active citizenry.

This unique showcase offered a compelling glimpse into how Arizona’s public universities are championing civic dialogue and encouraging constructive debate. As the evening concluded, the echoes of powerful narratives lingered in the air, leaving attendees with new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the voices shaping the future.