WHO 13 NEWS – The Scripps National Spelling Bee just crowned a winner, and if you listen closely you’ll hear an Iowan’s work during the competition.
Mary Brooks has been part of the Scripps National Spelling Bee for more than 50 years. She became head judge in 2005 and is responsible for ringing the bell when a speller misspells a word.
She says it’s a tough job, so she likes to give words of encouragement after contestants are eliminated.
“To acknowledge their success, to speak to them personally, to try and take that frown and turn it into a smile as they walk off the stage,” Brooks explained. “Instead of thinking about a word they just missed, to think about all that they accomplished so that’s part of my role now too.”
Brooks says witnessing the brilliance among the young spellers is her favorite part.
“When you’re there at the Bee and you watch it live and you see these kids and you get to know them, it renews your faith. It just does,” Brooks said. “I always walk away thinking we’re in very good hands in this country if these are the leaders that are coming out of this group.”
Brooks even brings her own bell to the competition.
If you’re wondering why Central Iowa hasn’t sent a speller to the national competition in a while, Brooks says it’s because there’s no longer a sponsor in the area. A business, community organization, or even a sports team can sign up to be a regional partner by clicking here.
Next year marks 100 years for the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
Check out Calyn’s full interview with Brooks below: