Why We Exist

Ben and Anna Miller’s journey with Stoa began in 2019 when they joined a local club with their children. Their son, Dakota, initially shy, focused on speech for two years before joining debate with his brother, David, in the 2022-2023 season. Together, they qualified for the National Invitational Tournament of Champions (NITOC), where Dakota grew into a confident speaker and debater.

Tragically, Dakota passed away in an accident on October 3, 2023. Before his passing, his passion for speech and debate inspired others, including two students who joined debate because of his passion. He had even prepared two speeches for the new season.

At Dakota’s celebration of life, a friend shared a vision of his impact, saying, “Dakota will have a bigger impact on that side of heaven than on this side.” At the time, these words were not comforting for the Millers.

The vision was explained like this: a rock dropped into still water creates ripples that spread far and wide. This imagery has since become a reality. Dakota’s best friend, Tyler, stepped in as David’s debate partner, competing in six tournaments and placing 8th in one of them. Tyler’s involvement inspired his mother to recognize the need for a Stoa club in Pennsylvania.

Thus, Legacy Speech and Debate Club was born, inspired by Dakota’s legacy and stepping out in faith to continue his ripple effect.