The Jefferson State Debate Team won 2nd place in Community College Sweepstakes in the IPDA National Debate Tournament, held on April 9-11.
This tournament was virtual this year and drew over 300 students from 60 colleges and universities from 24 different states. In addition to placing 2nd among community colleges as a team, novice debater Kylie Jordan and Junior Varsity debater Daniel Davis made it into elimination rounds. In addition, Jacob Davidson, Blake Denney and Zavoun Watts all had strong showings that contributed to the 2nd place win. Team members Heaven Sheppard, MJ Dailey, Cameron Hodge, Kelvin Thomas and Ali Richard supported the team by serving as judges and research assistants.
The International Public Debate Association also gives season-long awards, which are based on the cumulative points won by each team and individual debater from tournaments hosted from September through March. Season-long Awards (2020-2021) for Jefferson State out of 150 college and university debate programs and over 1000 students include being ranked 3rd among all community colleges in the nation and ranking as the 6th Novice Squad in the nation among both colleges and universities. In addition, Jacob Davidson finished the year ranked as the 3rd Novice Debater in the country, out of 303 novice debaters, both in college and university programs.
The JSCC Debate Team is looking for new members and full scholarships are available. Please contact Dr. Janice Ralya ([email protected]) for more information.
