Deborah has been involved in Speech Arts since the age of seven, when she began “elocution” lessons in Victoria, BC with Wilfrid Ord at the “Victoria School of Expression”.  She has an Education certificate from UVIC, an associate’s diploma in Speech and Drama from Mount Royal College, Calgary, and has been designated a Speech and Drama Specialist by Royal Conservatory at the elementary, intermediate and advanced levels. Deborah taught public school for more than ten years before turning her attention to speech arts and drama as a private teacher.  For 25 years, she ran a speech and drama studio, Rainbow Kids’ Theatre in Prince George, BC coaching up to 100 students a year in private and small group situations.  Since relocating to Penticton, she has stayed active, working for local and provincial festival organizations.  Ms. McGladdery has adjudicated for many festivals in Canada, is a member of the Canadian Music Festival Adjudicators’ Association, and works as a Speech Arts examiner for Royal Conservatory.  Mrs. McGladdery was honoured to be named as the RCM Teacher of Distinction for BC and Yukon in 2024.  She is currently working to unite speakers and support festivals nada via Sacrosspeak Ca Up! Canada online workshops.