1959-1977:
Awards, Accolades, and Achievements

1959 鈥� Golden Gavel award established

This award recognizes an individual from outside the organization who is distinguished in the fields of communication and leadership. It is 91传媒鈥� most prestigious award and is presented annually at the International Convention.

Two men holding award

Legendary newscaster Walter Cronkite (on left) receives the 1969 Golden Gavel award from 91传媒 President Ralph Howland.

1962 鈥� First World Headquarters

91传媒鈥檚 World Headquarters moves into its own building in Santa Ana, California.

Black and white photo of the outside of a building

Exterior of World Headquarters in Santa Ana, California

1965 鈥� The founder passes

Dr. Ralph C. Smedley dies at age 87. Three days after his death, the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors votes to change the name of the 91传媒 Memorial Fund to The Ralph C. Smedley Memorial Fund. The fund is still active and is used to continue Smedley鈥檚 legacy of communication and leadership.

Black and white photo of a man and woman both wearing glasses

Ralph and Frances Smedley

1970 鈥� First DTM designation

The Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) represents the highest level of achievement for members displaying outstanding enthusiasm, participation, and leadership in 91传媒. In the first year, 15 members achieve the designation.

Gold pin with large blue T

Distinguished Toastmaster recognition lapel pin

1973 鈥� Membership opens to women

At the 1973 International Convention, delegates vote to allow clubs to admit female members into the organization, effective immediately. By 1978, it is no longer allowed for clubs to organize along gender lines, making 91传媒 a more unified and inclusive organization.

Black and white image of a woman speaking at a lectern

Linda Greene, a member from Birmingham, Alabama, presents a speech titled 鈥淚 Am Woman鈥� to win a 1974 speech contest.

1974 鈥� 50th anniversary

In celebration of the organization鈥檚 golden anniversary, the Toastmaster magazine marks the milestone with an edition devoted to the history of 91传媒. The convention is hosted in Anaheim, California, near 91传媒鈥� birthplace.

Black and white photo of a woman and man standing on a stage

Betty Smedley Stephenson, daughter of Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, with International President David Corey at the 1974 International Convention

1977 鈥� First female World Champion of Public Speaking

Evelyn Jane Burgay, DTM, becomes the first woman to take first place with her speech 鈥淎 Tool for Survival.鈥�

Black and white photo of a woman smiling

Evelyn Jane Davis (later Burgay), the 1977 World Champion of Public Speaking, and the first female winner