When you're an award winner or an honoree you might be expected to give an acceptance speech. Most speakers ramble or speak too long. Take a lesson from Sandra Bullock's Academy award acceptance speech for The Blind Side and notice the elements that make it effective. Start with a humorous opening line. "Did I really earn this or did I wear you out?"
Acknowledge the competition. Sandra spoke to each of the nominees by name and said what she appreciated about them.
Thank the people who gave you the award and helped you to achieve your goals. Sandra thanked the family who provided the story, the people who made the film, and people who showed her support.
Make it personal. She talked about what the film was about for her and thanked all the mothers who take care of children. She skillfully transitioned into thanking her mother and her husband.
End with a thank you and exit the platform. Commit to ending on time.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNBkx6henLg]