Debate at Patrick Henry College

Debate

Civic Debate

PHC teams participate in Civic Debate which is a research-based competition that provides students with opportunities to contribute policy solutions for a global civic society, and aids in their development of professional presentation and leadership skills. Intercollegiate debate tournaments are organized by the Civic Debate Conference and are used as a tool for engagement with leaders on social justice and religious freedom issues, U.S. and European Union issues, and other cutting edge domestic and international issues.

PHC students have debated or made presentations before panels of qualified experts, including Ambassadors at the European Union and French Embassies in Washington, DC, and civil rights leaders at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Patrick Henry College students are frequently complimented for their thorough preparation, outstanding presentation skills, and their winsome speaking style. There are typically two competitive Civic Debate formats, present and defend or cross-examination. Our students excel in both arenas. 

International Public Debate Association (IDPA)

PHC also competes in the International Public Debate Association (IPDA). Begun in 1997 and currently active in 15 states and growing, IDPA promotes a debate format that emphasizes public speaking and real-world persuasion skills over the use of evidence and speed. The mission of IDPA "is to provide an opportunity for individuals to develop their advocacy skills in a forum that promotes appropriate and effective communication." IPDA is predominately an extemporaneous style of debate. PHC students are typically very gifted in this unique and challenging form of competition.