The termination of these courses occurred because of a drastic cut in Meadows School of the Arts" budget."Over the years, ancillary funding which supported the speech positions was eliminated," Director of the CCA Alan Albarran said."

The decision to eliminate the positions was purely an economic decision based on the needs of the Center.

In a recent memo addressed to the Dean of Meadows School of the Arts Carole Brandt, Lewis noted 1,176 students have enrolled in public speaking classes since 1991. She added the majority of students who take public speaking are liberal arts majors or, in other words, classified as being in the "Dedman" school.

Associate Provost of Undergraduate Education Marshall Terry, who is responsible for the proposal for the new general curriculum changes, said public speaking is not included in the proposal for the new curriculum because it is not part of SMU's strategic plan.

If something isn't departmental, it will have its ups and downs," Terry said. "It is tough to find a budget for this course in these times."

Lewis argues public speaking has brought in revenues over the years for the CCA with the high demand of students wanting the course.

"We started with just two public speaking classes in 1989. Now we have six," Lewis said. "We allow 25 students in each class and the classes are always maxed out."

Proponents of canceling public speaking classes don't see the courses as challenging as other courses offered at SMU.

On the other hand, Senior Lecturer Kathy LaTour said she sees public speaking as a course that teaches students to be confident in presenting ideas.

The ability to speak on one's feet isn't just important, it is critical," LaTour said."This is a course that is integral for all students." Terry said one of the reasons the public speaking courses have lasted so long is because of the requirement set for people to become teaches in Texas. teachers in Texas.

"Although public speaking isn't required for me to graduate, the course is required by the state of Texas in order for me to get my teaching certificate," junior English major Natalie Huffman said.

"I don't feel like I should be forced to go to another school to take a public speaking course." Although Lewis said she sees the cancellation of public speaking courses as "a short-sided quick fix," the termination of these courses is inevitable. November 22, 1996 All talked out Public speaking courses cut in arts school downsizing

ED: Perhaps this is an excellent opportunity for Toastmasters in the SMU area. 1,176 students in six years is almost 200 a year. That would support several heathly clubs.