He continued, “We each have talents and we developed those talents at the best of our ability…individuals can make a difference. I challenge you, ask you, to look at the funding necessary for this organization.”

He suggested that raising $200,000 over the next five years will allow the forming of an endowment that would provide a more permanent and secure means for continual funding. Oliver said, “If $30,000 per year can be raised, I will contribute $10,000 per year.”

He then asked those in attendance to make a pledge within their means.
Tyree said they plan to extend the challenge to all of the former team members that they can reach. He said, “This would help (David) McKenzie (PHS coach) and the coaches today. It’s unbelievable what coaches can do if they don’t have to spend their time fundraising. This is allowing me to have a vision for the next three, five, or even seven years. We plan to work hard to reach those goals.”
McKenzie shared his hope for the future later in the evening saying, “The challenge is amazing. If we do what is possible, this program is going to be around longer than Tyree or me.”

According to McKenzie’s calculations, if even half of the former competitors pledged $5 per year for five years, the number could be reached.

After the meeting, Oliver said, “Hopefully the sustaining endowment challenge will help assure the operational funding for this immensely successful program. PHS Speech and Debate has become a community treasure worthy of our support.”

Following the challenge, Oliver was honored by Tyree and McKenzie with an honorary place in the Speech Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is a permanent display of photos of team members over the 30 years who have either been a state champion or qualified for a tournament at the national level.

Oliver becomes the first and only non-school related honoree to be included.

After receiving the plaque, an emotional Oliver said, “I’m truly honored.” On Sunday, Oliver shared his thoughts saying, “I must leave it to others to explain why I received this honor. However, I am deeply grateful. I was left speechless before a room full of speech champions.” 

McKenzie, reminded the audience of the need for continued involvement in programs.

McKenzie said, “All of us as coaches learn very early that we can’t do it without help.”

He suggested past members judge for teams throughout the country and promote the formation of teams in high school that currently do not have one.

Tyree ended the reunion with these words, “We have a date in five years to get together.”