Spirit of National Speakers Association Day

Spirit of National Speakers Association Day, observed annually on November 14, honors the community and values of the National Speakers Association (NSA) and the spirit of professional speaking.

History of Spirit of National Speakers Association Day

The NSA was founded in 1973 by Cavett Robert, a man who overcame stage fright and went on to build a community of professional speakers. In recognition of his vision and the values he instilled in the association—sharing expertise, lifting others, and giving generously—the date of November 14 has been set aside to reflect “the spirit of Cavett” and the spirit of the NSA.

Why is Spirit of National Speakers Association Day important?

This day offers a chance to recognize the impact that professional speakers, trainers, coaches, and communicators make in organizations, communities, and society at large. It draws attention to communication as a craft, leadership through message, and influence through platform.
Celebrating this day also honors the values of collaboration, service, and mentorship that the NSA emphasises—helping newer speakers, sharing wisdom, and encouraging ethical and effective speaking.

• It highlights the role of public speaking in education, business, and social change.
• It acknowledges the network of professionals who work behind the scenes preparing, coaching, and delivering messages.
• It affirms the value of mentorship and peer support in helping speakers grow.
• It reinforces the idea that speaking is not just performance—but service and impact.
• It provides an opportunity for speakers to reflect on their mission, style, and audience.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) Spirit of National Speakers Association Day

Observing this day can involve both personal reflection and community engagement. On a practical level, speakers or communicators might host a workshop, join an NSA chapter meeting, or offer free resources to help aspiring speakers. Emotionally, it’s about reaffirming one’s purpose in speaking: why we speak, who we serve, and how we carry forward a message with integrity and heart.
Here are some ideas:

• Reach out to a mentor or peer speaker and share what you’ve learned from them.
• Offer a short free session or presentation to help someone with their speaking skills.
• Reflect on your speaking journey: what milestones have you crossed, what challenges remain?
• Use the hashtag #SpiritOfNSA or #NSADay and share a favorite speaking moment or your speaking mission.
• Join or host an event (in person or virtual) with other speakers to exchange ideas and support.

Spirit of National Speakers Association Day Dates Table