Toastmasters at USC

Looking to improve your public speaking, leadership, and networking skills?

“Tommy Talkers,” the USC chapter of Toastmasters International that was launched in 2018, provides faculty and staff with an opportunity to develop these essential abilities in a supportive and engaging environment, empowering you to become a confident communicator and effective leader.

• “Tommy Talkers” runs two cohorts each year, in April and October, with the hybrid cohorts meeting bi-weekly at the University Park Campus and on Zoom for 10 weeks.
• Each cohort follows a structured program designed to build communication and leadership skills, typically covering the first level of a Toastmasters Pathway.
• Participants deliver three or four speeches, take on meeting roles such as Toastmaster, Timer, and Evaluator, and receive feedback to help them grow in a supportive environment.

Chapter mission

To provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Benefits of Toastmasters:

• Access the Toastmasters Pathways learning experience: Choose from 11 specialized learning paths, including “Dynamic Leadership,” “Strategic Relationships,” and “Presentation Mastery.” Each is an introduction to the full Toastmasters Pathways program, which participants can go on to complete if they wish.
• Leadership development: Gain hands-on leadership experience through club roles and structured projects.
• Networking and professional growth: Connect with colleagues and professionals while enhancing communication skills.

Learn more and get involved

• Explore the Toastmasters Pathways learning tracks.
• The standard Toastmasters membership fee is approximately $60 every six months, plus a one-time $20 new member fee.
• If you have questions and/or are interested in getting involved, email tommytalkers-l@maillist.usc.edu.