St. Bonaventure University will host a Toastmasters demonstration meeting Wednesday, Oct. 7, as the university explores the creation of a new club designed to bring together members of the campus and greater Olean communities.

The demonstration will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the boardroom, Room 200, of the Swan Business Center. The event is open to anyone interested in learning more about Toastmasters and the prospective club.

Members of established Toastmasters clubs will lead the session, offering general information about the organization as well as a shortened demonstration meeting to give attendees a firsthand look at the Toastmasters experience.

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization focused on developing public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Members learn through participation, practicing skills such as prepared and impromptu speaking, leading meetings, listening and providing constructive feedback.

The proposed St. Bonaventure club would be affiliated with and operated through the university’s School of Business and would be open not only to St. Bonaventure students, faculty and staff, but also alumni and members of the local business and greater Olean communities.

Dr. Benjamin Posmanick associate professor of Economics in the School of Business, is leading the effort to establish the club.

“Toastmasters will create a unique opportunity for the campus and Olean communities to strengthen our connection by improving our communication and leadership skills in a supportive and collaborative environment,” said Posmanick. “I firmly believe that the club will create meaningful connections between community and campus members. Moreover, Toastmasters has a proven record of improving communication and leadership skills while having fun.” 

The initiative complements the School of Business’ emphasis on preparing students for their professional lives while creating an opportunity for learning and connection that extends beyond campus. Toastmasters programs are designed to help participants strengthen public speaking and presentation skills, build leadership abilities, develop self-confidence and self-awareness, and practice networking in a supportive environment.

For students, those experiences can reinforce skills important to career preparation, including interviewing, presentations, project management, leadership and conflict resolution. For working professionals, Toastmasters also provides opportunities to practice clear communication, engaged listening, effective presentations, meeting facilitation and constructive feedback.

The Oct. 7 event is a demonstration meeting and does not require attendees to become members. Membership in Toastmasters is open to individuals age 18 and older.

Those interested in attending or learning more about the prospective St. Bonaventure Toastmasters Club may contact Ben Posmanick at bposmani@sbu.edu.