Southeast Missouri State University sophomore Annie Greening will present A Box of Surprises as part of the 16th annual COMMrades Fall 2017 Speakers Showcase at noon Aug. 30 in the University Center Ballroom.The 30-minute event is designed to exhibit what comprises a good speech, focusing on content, structure, delivery and visual communication. The event is free and open to the public.Greening will examine the use of baby boxes, a method for reducing infant mortality that is gaining popularity in the United States. Her points include infant safety and the coaching parents receive to provide better infant care in general.Greening developed the presentation during her freshman year, said Dr. Glen Williams, chair of the Department of Communication Studies.She did exactly what a student should do, he said. She thoroughly researched her topic and devoted time to rehearsing the presentation.Greening, of Des Moines, Iowa, is majoring in historic preservation. She completed the speech for SC105 Fundamentals of Oral Communication. She was selected from students taking the course to deliver her speech during the showcase to demonstrate effective speechmaking for students currently enrolled in SC105 and others interested in improving their techniques.The Speakers Showcase, held every semester since spring 2002, is now in its 16th year. The speech, and the discussion that follows, provides a good model for newly enrolled students.The presentations not only serve as models of good speaking, but are also selected for the informative value of the topics, Williams said.Prizes will also be provided by local sponsors.