“What do you do in a debate?” Many have asked. But Grambling State University will not have long to find out.
The Earl Lester Cole Honors College Debate Team will host their first tournament called the “Tigerland Tournament” March 11-12. The team is expecting over eight schools, which include LaTech, ULM, and LSUS.
“The Tigerland Tournament presents a great opportunity for Grambling. From our initial commitments it looks like the tournament will be one of the bigger IPDA events this year. This is only Grambling’s second year in IPDA competition and the team has exceeded all expectations,” said Dr. Paul Gelpi, advisor.
“I really look forward to GSU hosting our first tournament. Traveling to other schools is great but nothing compares to being at home,” said Jessica London.
“I am pleased to see the progress of the debate team. I have been there since the team’s inception and its like watching a baby grow rapidly. I believe the best is yet to come,” said Orneno Wright.
“The debate team had a rocky start since its beginnings in 2003. Financial troubles and low membership made it hard to even visualize a tournament being here, but all the hard work, dedication, and faith has paid off,” Tenisha Willis said.
This semester the debate team has seen some new additions. Most of the fall semester was used to prepare the newer members for competition this spring.
“My first year experience with the debate team has been a good one. I am quickly becoming more familiar with the intricacies of formal debate, and it is nice to see the progress and development of the group.”
Ja’rod Morris who has been a member since 2003 reflects on the teams development. “The team is developing by leaps and bounds and we are excited about what’s in store for the future. We are still looking for intelligent leaders to contribute to our success”
After hosting this tournament the team will be traveling to Shreveport to compete in the LSUS Ethics Tournament.