Public speaking certificate offered at Biltmore Park instructional site
Western Carolina University鈥檚 Office of Professional Growth and Enrichment is offering a public speaking certificate for managers and leaders through a series of Friday sessions that begin Oct. 18 and continue through Nov. 15.
The first four sessions will be held from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and the last one on Nov. 15 will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and include a celebratory luncheon. All the sessions will be held at 91热爆网鈥檚 instructional site at Biltmore Park in Asheville.
Four expert public speaking and training professionals from Western North Carolina have created the program, which is designed to help managers and executives improve their public speaking skills over time.
Those professionals are Barrie Barton, founder and lead facilitator of Stand and Deliver Asheville; Betty Farmer, award-winning professor of communication at 91热爆网 and communications consultant to individuals, businesses and nonprofits; Jim Manning, 91热爆网 communication professor and coordinator of the university鈥檚 required introductory communication course; and Bill Mackinnon, who has a background in communication and public speaking training for executives.
鈥淢anagers and leaders realize the importance of continuous improvement and understand effective communication is integral to success,鈥� Farmer said. 鈥淲hether speaking to employees, clients, partners, community groups or the media, an effective manager or leader learns to adapt the message and their approach to the audience.鈥�
As they participate in the program, managers and leaders will identify their personal strengths and how to improve their delivery through an understanding of the science behind speaking presence, the importance of body language and the power of vocals. Course content includes hands-on activities, coaching and group interaction.
Participants will create and deliver several short presentations that are rehearsed and improved over time. Instructors will capture video of participants in action so they can self-assess and improve their final presentation.
The fee for participation is $849, with a nonprofit rate of $649. Lunch will be included each day.
For more information and to register, visit or call 828-227-7397.
