In Toastmasters meetings, "The Last Word" is a non-traditional, custom role designed to conclude the meeting on a lighter note or with a final thought, often humorous or reflective of the meeting's events. This role is distinct from the standard functionary roles outlined in official Toastmasters International handbooks, such as the Ah-Counter, General Evaluator, or Timer.
The Last Word assignment typically involves the member preparing a short speech or final thought, usually lasting between 60 to 90 seconds, to close the meeting. This can be on a subject the member cares about, a humorous anecdote, or an observation informed by the meeting's proceedings. The purpose of this role is to add a fresh and engaging element to the meeting agenda, providing an opportunity for members to practice delivering a concise and impactful closing statement. It's a creative way for clubs to "spice things up" if their meeting agenda feels routine.
While not a universally mandated role across all Toastmasters clubs, "The Last Word" has been adopted by specific clubs, such as St. Vladimir Toastmasters in Ontario, Canada, to enhance their meeting experience. This role, along with others like the Quiz Master or Mystery Greeter, exemplifies how individual clubs can introduce custom roles to foster skill development in unique ways beyond the traditional curriculum. For instance, the Speakers Forum, an advanced club, has a "Joke Master" for similar reasons, providing a lower-pressure role for newcomers to practice delivery.
The club named "The Last Word" in Burlington, MA, which chartered on June 1, 1984, also uses this name, and it meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday at 6:45 pm at UCC Burlington, Skelton Hall, 6 Lexington Street, Burlington, MA 01803-3032, United States. This club is open to all interested parties with no membership restrictions. Another club in the Berkshires, also named "Last Word," has been active since 1970 and focuses on helping members overcome public speaking anxiety and develop communication and leadership skills through structured meetings with various roles and speeches.
Toastmasters International emphasizes that members learn by participating in various meeting roles, which are crucial for the educational and enjoyable experience of the club. These roles, whether traditional or custom, contribute to personal growth and self-confidence by providing opportunities to practice communication and leadership skills. Examples of traditional roles include the Toastmaster (emcee), Table Topics Master (for impromptu speaking), Prepared Speakers, Evaluators, Grammarian, and Ah-Counter, each designed to develop specific skills like time management, listening, critical thinking, and vocabulary.
