Friday, October 25, 2013

Hampton University & Howard University Debate in their First Ever Debate-Off


Hampton University & Howard University Debate in their First Ever Debate-Off

Washington, D.C.—On Friday, Oct. 18, Professor Jamantha Watson and our award-winning Hampton University Forensics & Debate Team participated in the First Annual HU Debate at Howard University.

First Annual HU Debate at Howard University
Hampton University (right) against Howard University (left)
Both ‘rivals’ debated on the topics:  “Stand Your Ground Law Should be Repealed” and “Potential Employers Should Not Be Allowed Access to Student’s Social Media Accounts, Namely Facebook. Twitter, and Instagram.”

The students debated in front of an audience of 350 people.  Included in the audience were students from the Benjamin Banneker Preparatory Charter School in Willingsboro, N.J.

Hampton University sophomore Nya Harris from Washington, D.C., said how she appreciated how both universities were able to put their rivalry aside and "focus on the good:  making a difference and being heard."

In fact, as her opponents were speaking, she was extremely proud to see that her generation is capable of anything if they put their minds to it.

And it was no surprise that Hampton University took a trophy home for the team’s professional appearance, effective level of research, knowledge of the subject matters, and overall preparation for the two topics.

Meagan Downing (Senior from Chesapeake, Va.)
Caleb Jackson (Junior from Dallas, Texas)
Ivana Thomas (Sophomore from Durham, N.C.)
Nya Harris (Sophomore from Washington, D.C.)
Because this was the first HU Debate, it served as an exhibition that will be used to further more HBCU participation.

“Next year [Hampton University] will be hosting Howard University in the second HU Debate,” said Watson, “It is our hope that the 2013 HU Debate will begin a tradition of cohesive dialogue between Hampton University and Howard University as well as other Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the nation.”

Watson added how her students never disappoint the competition, nor herself; so come support HU's Forensics & Debate Team at their upcoming competitions--

  • Nov. 15 - 16, Tournament at Lord Fairfax Community College
  • Feb. 23 - 24, Tournament at Fayetteville State University
  • Feb. 28 - March 1, Tournament in Ocean City, Md.
-Gianina Thompson

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