John P. Ryan: A teacher with several imperative pluses

Abstract

Ryan, born in New York, educated at Cornell and Chicago, professor at Grinnell College 1903–1947, president in 1936 of what became the Speech Communication Association, was a master teacher of public speaking to college students and, in Des Moines, to adults. His method, notable for imaginative planning, was distinguished by: insistence upon preparation, good thinking, good speech content; attention to delivery; repetition, organization, mnemonic words; abundance of examples. He had a commanding presence, a keen sense of humor, a lively interest in the welfare and in the careers of students.

Key concepts:

• John P. Ryan
• great teachers
• mnemonic devices
• organization
• etymology
• short speeches
• organizational communication