WSU Debate

The Wichita State Debate Team offers students the opportunity to compete at the highest levels of intercollegiate policy debate while developing skills that translate directly to law school, public service, advocacy, and leadership roles.

Our History

Having been established in the 19th century, the Wichita State debate team has a long and rich history of excellence. Producing numerous nationally competitive and championship caliber teams. This is a testimate to the hard work and dedication of the students and coaches involved. Wichita State Universities dedication to academic rigor has played a significant role in this success.

Robert Shields and Lee Thomspon won the 1968 National Debate Tournament and cemented a legacy of success for the Wichita State debate team. Since then Wichita State has consistently cleared teams to the top 32, 16, and 8 competitors at both the National Debate Tournament and the CEDA National Championships.

More recently the team has cleared teams to the top 32 competitors at the National Debate Tournament, top 16 competitors at the CEDA national championship, and has consistently been ranked amongst the top teams in the nation for inter-collegiate policy debate.