Greg “H” Holtschneider, longtime Marshfield educator and debate coach, has been inducted into the Speech and Theatre Association of Missouri (STAM) Hall of Fame. Widely known to generations of Blue Jays simply as “H,” Holtschneider’s name now joins the ranks of the state’s most influential speech, debate, and theatre educators.
The honor was presented earlier this month at STAM’s annual conference and banquet, held Sept. 19–21. Marshfield alumna and current debate coach Chasity Hance had the privilege of presenting the award alongside Mrs. Tobin of Willard.
“It was incredibly special,” Hance said. “We were able to share why we nominated him, read quotes from former Marshfield Speech and Debate students, and explain the impact he’s had over the years. Then, he gave a speech accepting the award, which was just the perfect ending to the evening.”
The induction process began when colleagues from across the state submitted letters of nomination and recommendation for Holtschneider. Hance, along with fellow educators from Bolivar and Willard, highlighted not only his professional achievements but also the lasting legacy he left on his students.
That legacy was on full display at the banquet. “So many alumni spoke to the life lessons and confidence they gained because of H,” Hance added.
“He’s the reason debate in Marshfield has such a strong tradition. This recognition was long overdue.”
Adding to the celebration, Holtschneider’s wife, Angie, and their two sons, Sam and David, were in attendance to witness the moment.
“It was touching to see his family there,” Hance added. “They’ve also been shaped by the culture of speech and debate, and it made the evening even more meaningful.”
With this induction, Holtschneider’s influence on Marshfield’s students, and Missouri’s speech and theatre community, has been permanently etched into history.
Or, as Hance put it: “If you’re known simply by the letter ‘H,’ you’ve already made your mark.”
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