Michael Sowell is a high school English teacher and Speech & Debate coach at Barringer High School, where he is committed to helping students develop confidence, critical thinking skills, and powerful voices both inside and outside the classroom. With six years of coaching experience, he has guided students to championships and finalist finishes at the state level as well as at prestigious National Circuit tournaments, including those hosted by Princeton University, Yale University, and University of Pennsylvania.
A former Fulbright Program participant in Bulgaria, Michael brings a global perspective to education and communication. His own Speech & Debate journey began in high school, where he discovered the transformative power of public speaking, advocacy, and storytelling. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for empowering young people to find and refine their voices.
As an educator and coach, Michael believes that Speech & Debate provides students with far more than competitive success—it equips them with the confidence, communication skills, and civic awareness needed to thrive in college, careers, and their communities. He is dedicated to creating supportive spaces where students can challenge themselves, grow as leaders, and realize their full potential.
Organization Name: New Jersey Speech and Debate League
Award Title: Leader of Arts Education
Year: 2026
What does receiving a New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education mean to you? This award came as a true surprise to me. There is a lot of work being done in the roles I serve in the classroom, school community, and Speech/Debate community. You can never be certain people recognize the work you do behind the scenes, so I am just elated and privileged to be recognized for the work I've done and plan to do.
How has receiving this award influenced your artistic journey and future aspirations? This award has inspired me to keep lifting up my sleeves and working for others.
Can you share a specific experience in arts education that had a profound impact on your development as an artist? I don't think there's one specific experience; I think it's everyone, namely my teachers and students, past and present, who believe in me when I lack the confidence or the willpower to show them what they've known I was capable of.
What advice would you give to young artists who are just beginning their journey in arts education? Someone once said this (I forgot who), but my advice is to use every color in the crayon box. Creativity primarily sparks through exploration, and so my advice is to explore.
