Formal Hall Welcomes Alumnus and Speechwriting Consultant Alexander Westenberg

Campion College’s Formal Hall on Thursday 7 August 2025 was an evening of fine food, warm fellowship, and thought-provoking conversation, as students, staff and guests gathered to welcome alumnus and professional speechwriter Alexander Westenberg.

The night began with pre-dinner drinks in the courtyard, followed by a welcome from MC Pieta Winkels and the traditional grace led by Fr Peter Kruk. Guests enjoyed a beautifully prepared main course before being treated to a moving performance by Aidan and Marigold Barratt, who played Three Nocturnes for Cello and Guitar: No. 1, Andantino by Burgmüller.

Following dessert, Dr Paul Morrissey introduced Mr Westenberg, whose career since graduating from Campion College has taken him from academia to the heart of political and ecclesiastical speechwriting. Since 2016, he has written more than 1,000 speeches for high-profile figures including the Premier of NSW and the Chair of ASIC, on topics ranging from bioethics to state funerals.

In his engaging and often humorous address, The Art of Salesmanship, Mr Westenberg challenged his audience to rethink the role of persuasion in everyday life. He explained that persuasion is not just the domain of salespeople, but an essential life skill –whether convincing a child to follow instructions, a potential employer to offer a job, or an academic marker to award a high distinction.

Using vivid storytelling and relatable examples, he explored the “three sales” that underpin effective communication: establishing the speaker’s credibility, engaging the audience’s interest, and making the central point compelling enough to inspire action. He illustrated how Jesus masterfully employed these techniques, turning a familiar moral lesson into a call to tangible change: “Go thou and do likewise.”

The talk continued with insights from Mr Westenberg’s own professional experience, including the importance of defining one clear message, structuring an argument for maximum retention, and using delivery techniques such as pacing, pausing, and vocal training to enhance impact. His practical advice ranged from choosing no more than three key points for a speech to an unconventional but effective voice exercise involving a toothpick, an anecdote that drew laughter from the audience.

See below for photos from the night.