Witness History

Speaker FAQs

• Is there a fee for speaking engagements?
  While there is no charge for speaking engagements, any donations to the AHEC will be graciously accepted.
• How long do the speaking events last?
  Presentation times typically range from 40-50 minutes. We recommend setting aside a minimum of 60 minutes to account for audience questions.
• Can I request a specific speaker?
  We will always take your requests in mind while selecting a speaker, but unfortunately can’t always guarantee availability. In the event a particularly requested speaker isn’t available, we’ll do our best to match you with someone whose testimony best fits your audience’s needs.
• Are Holocaust survivor stories appropriate for younger students?
  The recommended age for students is 6th grade and above. For younger students, we recommend programs on respect, citizenship, justice, and civic responsibility as precursors for future Holocaust education.
• When I can expect to hear from a speaker?
  After submitting your Speaker Request Form, an available speaker will typically reach out within 1-5 business days. If you haven’t heard anything by then, feel free to let us know at info@ahecinfo.org. We ask that you submit your request at least 3 weeks from your preferred event date to ensure availability and proper planning time.
• Can I arrange a virtual event?
  Yes, all speakers offer virtual presentations via Zoom upon request.
• Can the speaker present to multiple groups in one day?
  Speakers can only present once a day, so we encourage classes/groups to be combined into one audience.
• What should I do to prepare for the presentation?
  
  
  • Ensure you can meet technological needs. All of our speakers use multimedia slideshows and will require a projector, screen, microphone, and internet connection. Once we connect you with a speaker, they will let you know their specific technological requirements.
  
  
  
  • Consider the security of your venue. We want our speakers to feel safe at speaking engagements. Please keep in mind the context of your event/size of your audience and whether you will need to increase security measures.
  
  
  
  • Provide students with appropriate context. Hearing a Holocaust survivor’s testimony should always be a supplement to other Holocaust curriculum. Students need to have completed some form of Holocaust instruction, particularly around your speaker’s background, prior to the date of presentation. For supplemental material suggestions, check out our Classroom Resources or contact our office at info@ahecinfo.org.